Trail Overview
Johnson Road 4x4 travels from a neighborhood deeper into the Sawtooth Canyons over fine, loose sand that can become more difficult when wet. Ruts begin around 4–6 inches deep and increase to 12–16 inches around 0.7 miles. After 2 miles, the trail becomes more challenging with repeated whoops, deep ruts, and rock gardens with obstacles reaching 16 inches. The trail is narrow with some overgrown vegetation, although pinstriping is generally avoidable. 4WD or AWD is required, and long-wheelbase trucks or vans may struggle with the repeated obstacles. Around 4.4 miles, the route passes impressive rock formations that are also popular with rock climbers. Numerous campsites are located alongside these formations, with excellent views of the surrounding Sawtooth Canyon hills and mountains.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 3 because of its 12–16-inch ruts, repeated whoops, and rock obstacles reaching 16 inches. 4WD or AWD is required, while longer-wheelbase vehicles may have additional clearance challenges.
History
The BLM lands around Sawtooth Canyon reflect the long history of California’s Mojave Desert, where Indigenous peoples traveled and lived for thousands of years before miners, ranchers, and settlers arrived in the 1800s. The surrounding desert also contains remnants of the region’s mining and homesteading era, while its rugged volcanic rock formations preserve a much older geologic history.
Offroad