Trail Overview
Johnson Road Cut-Off branches from Johnson Road and travels deeper into the surrounding hills over fine, loose dirt that can become more difficult when wet. Whoops reach 12–18 inches tall, with ruts ranging from 2–6 inches deep. Overgrown vegetation is present, although most pinstriping is avoidable with careful driving. Around 0.1 miles in, a steep hill climb features loose gravel and 6–8-inch rock ledges, requiring 4WD or AWD. The trail ends at one of the most scenic campsites in the area, positioned at a high point overlooking the surrounding desert and valley. The site offers level ground, multiple fire rings, and enough room for approximately 10 vehicles.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 4 because of the steep, loose hill climb, 6–8 inch rock ledges, and repeated 12–18 inch whoops. 4WD or AWD is required for the climb due to the loose gravel and rocky terrain.
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.
