Trail Overview
Low Divide-West - FS 305 is a publicly accessible, hard-packed gravel service road that intersects several private properties before leading you through a long, picturesque northern section of the Six Rivers National Park, bringing you close to the California-Oregon Border. The staging area at the South end of 305 Low Divide-West, where Forest Route 17N21 also starts, features a wide-open space akin to a public park where families can enjoy a nice picnic surrounded by Fir trees and wild grass; just note that use of any grills, camp stoves, or open flames requires a permit from the US Forest Service. Along the 305 Low Divide-West road, a couple of small turnouts can function as dispersed campsites for single-vehicle car-campers, while at least two larger, cleared-out areas can host multiple vehicles and campers. As this route intersects multiple private properties, be mindful and respectful of all private property lines, and be conscious of the wildlife preserve area that one private property owner has established on their land. As a reward for respecting the private wildlife preserve where no hunting is allowed, you will probably see Columbian black-tailed deer and mule deer enjoying the alpine views along this leg of the 305 Low Divide route.
Difficulty
Low Divide-West - FS 305 is a well-maintained, publicly accessible service road that is primarily gravel. While there are some steeper climbs and descents along the road, most vehicles can manage the terrain, including AWD vehicles and 2WD vehicles with moderate clearance. The trail is also wide enough for two-way traffic, although the Fir trees lining the outer edge of the shelf road section may block visibility around some of the tighter turns, so mind your speed, especially during inclement weather.
