Giant Rock

Total Miles 9.6
Technical Rating
3 Easy
Best Time Spring, Fall, Winter
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

To reach Giant Rock, turn off Boone Road and head across Means Lakebed. The route generally consists of smooth desert sand interspersed with small washes. Numerous intertwining trails offer choices in your path. Be mindful of crossing ruts from intersecting trails and the occasional wash. Stay alert, as other vehicles can appear unexpectedly. Overall, this is a relatively easy way to experience the desert and a fascinating piece of history. While the main attraction is Giant Rock, there are many interesting sights to see along the way. Given the unreliable reception at Giant Rock, download information about both Giant Rock and the Integratron beforehand. Once you've explored Giant Rock, the short drive to the Integratron is worthwhile, as the two locations are historically connected.

Photos of Giant Rock

Difficulty

There are a few rocks to watch out for, and after the last rain, there was mud on the lakebed; however, you could go around both. There were some deep ruts to cross and a couple of rocky washes to cross.

History

Giant Rock, following the lifestyle of the desert tortoise, Frank Critzer made a hole under the north side with dynamite in the 1930s and lived here till 1942, when he blew himself up while being investigated by police. In the 1950s, Giant Rock became a gathering spot for UFO believers. Integratron was built nearby with its own unique story. The rock split in early 2000, reveling white granite. Be sure to look up more of the history on your own about both of these locations.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

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Nathan F
Apr 28, 2025
Open
Did the trail from West to East. I would say the trail has a lot of deep ruts and lots of sand. Also the start of the trail is a little unknown without a map so be sure to have good service. To be honest my recommendation is just to start at Integration and then make your way up the smooth gravel road. That way you make it to Giant rock in under 10 minutes. No need to waste your time doing the whole very bumpy trail. If you do happen to start at the other end it starts at a dry lakebed and then goes through the desert for a good 45min to an hour before you get to Giant rock. Also right before you get to Giant rock you come close to DOD land so be sure not to cross into this. There are also a couple small hill climbs at the very beginning but the rest of the trail is fairly flat. Hope this info helps!
Fred Stankowski
Apr 04, 2025
Open
Some really soft spots and some pretty good dips. Wide range of vehicle traffic, from passenger cars to side by sides.

Giant Rock Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Giant Rock Map

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