Trail Overview

This Forest Service Road traverses a canyon on the White Mountain of the USFS White Mountain Ranger District within the Inyo National Forest. The trail can commence or terminate at either end and is accessible from either California Route 168 or White Mountain Road, which branches off from California Route 168. Each direction offers a captivating 4x4 adventure. From California Route 168, the trail enters a narrow section characterized by steep vertical rock walls that transition into a wall of volcanic rock. The trail is flanked by abundant flowering plants, providing ample photographic opportunities. The terrain comprises a combination of sand, gravel, and rocks, some of which necessitate careful navigation. The trail features numerous twists and turns, with some rock ledges (subject to trail conditions) that require negotiation. During winter, water flows through the trail due to snowmelt, and there are indications of trees being displaced. Depending on the time of day, shadows can obscure the trail as it travels northwest. As you traverse this trail, you will observe a 1,559-foot gain or loss depending on your direction. The trail can be completed in a standard high-clearance 4x4 vehicle in stock form, although low-range capabilities may be necessary based on the driver’s experience.

Photos of Forest Service Road 35E313

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Difficulty

This trail is in the middle of a 3 and 4. Depending on conditions.

Technical Rating

SHAH NICKPAY

May 11, 2026

Open

Our group traveled from south to north to reach the campground. We had a mix of trucks, including Toyota 4Runners, a Hummer H3, a Power Ram, and a Land Rover Defender. The trail narrowed at certain points, which could make it challenging for wider trucks. There are several waterfalls along the route, and conditions may change significantly depending on seasonal rain. If you have a high-clearance truck with a good set of tires — and perhaps a little spotting in a few sections — you should have no problem completing the trail.

Ashton Fera

May 03, 2026

Open

I started this trail in 2wd thinking that the 4/10 rating was nonsense, and i was right but for the wrong reasons. Once you get 1/3 of the way into the trail and start traveling through the canyon it becomes very narrow and rocky. There are a few waterfall obstacles which you have to climb up (we traveled south to north) that i would say make the trail a 5/10 in a midsize. The thing is that we had a full size power wagon on 37s with us and instead of him being able to navigate the tight rocks in the canyon, he had to go over them. Some of these rocks were close to 3 feet tall and that is why i would say this trail is not the most full size friendly. If you have a very capable truck like the power wagon and you’re willing to get yourself into some off camber sections then this trail is super beautiful and very fun.