Lazy M - FS 9s045

Trail Overview

This 2.0-mile spur trail provides a fun twisty experience leading to a technical climb to a high-alpine granite knob, offering panoramic views over Shaver Lake below and the surrounding country. The trail is defined by a persistently rocky and steep tread with embedded and loose granite (visible in photos). While the trail runs near the 2020 Creek Wildfire area, the surrounding forest has largely survived, providing welcome shade. It is important to note for 4x4 users willing and able to climb to the granite knob that there are NOT Forest Service signs restricting vehicle access to the final granite overlook, unlike adjacent routes. At roughly 8,000' in elevation, this trail is best visited in Summer and Fall.

Photos of Lazy M - FS 9s045

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Difficulty

The rating is justified by the slow pace and the presence of steep, sustained grades combined with highly loose, fist-sized rock and embedded granite, and then a steep climb up onto a granite knob. High clearance and 4WD-Low are needed to maintain traction. This route requires active line selection and robust vehicle protection (sliders/skids). The final ascent is a slow crawl that will test both vehicle and driver skills.

Technical Rating

Lazy M - FS 9s045 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV