Los Pinos Mtn. Loop

Total Miles
18.9

Elevation

1,422.54 ft

Duration

4 Hours

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Fall

Trail Overview

The first part of this loop to the fire lookout tower has been paved since our last visit in 2002. ATVs are not allowed on this portion. The remainder of the loop is all dirt as it circles south around the outside of Corral Canyon OHV Area, which is open all year to green-sticker vehicles. Great views along the route including from the top of Los Pinos Mountain. Fee and dispersed camping available.

Difficulty

Moderate: Mostly easy except for the section between Waypoints 02 and 04. This portion is narrow, steep, brushy and rutted in spots, but suitable for high clearance stock 4x4 SUVs.

History

Los Pinos' is Spanish for 'The Pines,' which you'll see in abundance from the Forest Service fire tower at the top of the mountain. The tower, originally built in the 1920s and replaced in the 1960s, is one of few remaining in California manned full time.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

otay trail meet place
Dec 02, 2023
4x4
Open
Muddy/Wet
Rough/Deteriorated
Gera Beltran
Nov 22, 2023
Dirt Bike
Open
Sarah Boyd
Nov 11, 2023
2023 Subaru Outback
Open
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated
Washboard
Royce Henry
Aug 05, 2023
4x4
Open
Normal
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated

Access Description

Take Interstate 8 to the Buckman Springs exit. This exit has a rest stop. Head south on Buckman Springs Road 3.3 miles to Corral Canyon Rd. Turn right and go 5.8 miles west to a parking area near a paved 4-way intersection called Four Corners.

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