Trail Overview
This 2.5-mile out-and-back trail starts and ends on Red Fir Road, climbing quickly to gain 250 feet in elevation. The trail is one vehicle wide and very dusty, with a surface made of loose sand and pumice that can get deeper at times, requiring good tires and reliable traction to maintain momentum through these sections. The route is lined with lots of lodgepole pine trees and desert brush, including big sagebrush and bloomer's golden bush, creating a mixed forest and high desert environment. Some sections feature small rocks and gravel mixed in with the sand and pumice, adding variety to the surface conditions. The trail median has overgrown vegetation in places, and some sections feature tight trees that can give Eastern Sierra pinstripes to wider vehicles. Drivers will encounter small ruts and articulated off-camber sections up to 12 inches throughout the route, requiring careful wheel placement and attention to vehicle balance. The trail leads to a shelf area that rewards visitors with views of the Eastern Sierra mountains, providing a scenic highlight along the technical route. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist as well, with whitetail deer roaming the area during spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Difficulty
This trail has a moderate difficulty rating of 3 based on the deep, loose sand and pumice requiring good traction; ruts and articulated off-camber sections up to 12 inches; tight tree sections causing pinstripes; overgrown median vegetation; and mixed rock and gravel sections. The primary challenges include maintaining momentum through deeper sand sections; navigating articulated off-camber terrain safely; managing tight tree corridors; and handling the loose surface combined with ruts throughout the climb.
