Coyote Lake Trail - FS 31E304

Trail Overview

This sand, dirt, and gravel trail begins in a wide meadow before quickly climbing into a dense forest of tall pine trees. After weaving through the forest, the road opens again into a large meadow beneath the surrounding hills. From here, the trail continues toward Coyote Lake, cutting back into the pines before beginning a steady climb. The surface transitions to sandy soil mixed with embedded rocks, making the drive more technical as elevation increases. About a half mile in, the trail narrows into a sandy, single-vehicle shelf road with a slight off-camber tilt. Roughly three-quarters of a mile later, the forest clears into an open meadow with stunning views of Coyote Lake below, framed by dramatic mountain backdrops. Continuing forward, the meadow gives way to even broader vistas of the surrounding peaks before the real challenge begins. The upper section consists of tight, off-camber switchbacks with loose rock and limited maneuvering space. The final couple of switchbacks are especially steep and rocky, with almost no room to pass or turn around. Longer wheelbase vehicles will find this section particularly difficult. At the very end, space is extremely limited, barely enough to turn a vehicle around.

Photos of Coyote Lake Trail - FS 31E304

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Difficulty

The combination of sandy surfaces, off-camber shelf roads, embedded rocks, and tight switchbacks makes this trail a serious challenge for less-experienced drivers. While technically a moderate route, it can feel intimidating and even unnerving for those unprepared. Recommended for shorter, capable vehicles with good clearance and careful drivers. Avoid taking more than one vehicle on the upper switchbacks.

Technical Rating

Coyote Lake Trail - FS 31E304 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike