Trail Overview
Originating at a prominent five-way junction off Forest Road M4, Kenny Ridge - FS 23N26 provides a serene and scenic connector route through to Willow Creek Road. Set high within Mendocino National Forest, the surrounding landscape highlights sweeping ridgeline vistas amidst timber stands recovering from the 2020 August Complex Fire. Consisting of a single-lane graded dirt and fine gravel track with mild elevation changes, this pleasant pathway holds an easy Technical Rating of 1. The road gradually wanders along the mountain contour before ascending toward open panoramic views, eventually passing a spacious dispersed camping area at 2.1 miles equipped with picnic tables for multi-vehicle gatherings. Beyond 2.5 miles, the corridor gently narrows along the mountain saddle where light brush reaches toward the roadway, continuing onward until concluding at 3.7 miles. Off-roaders and outdoor recreationists frequently travel this well-maintained passage to locate prime group campsites or transition seamlessly across regional Forest Service routes.
Difficulty
Earning a Technical Rating of 1, this forest service road presents an unchallenging, well-maintained driving surface composed of firm dirt and light gravel. The route follows a gentle gradient with forgiving curves and clear lines of sight. While light brush encroaches slightly along the narrow saddle past the 2.5-mile point, the path remains free of deep ruts, exposed boulders, or clearance-testing obstacles, allowing smooth traversal during dry conditions.
