Matheson Trams

Total Miles
15.1

Technical Rating

5

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

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Matheson Trams
7

Trail Overview

This is a fantastic trail located in the Chappie OHV area. Expect beautiful views and a nice trail that can be done in a stock UTV, dirt bike, or 4-wheeler. Be sure to stop and look at Shasta Dam, Iron Mountain Mine, and the old hang glider ramp. Bring a lunch. Multiple places along the trail are wide enough for multiple UTVs, making for a very nice stop to break.

Photos of Matheson Trams

Matheson Trams
Matheson Trams

Difficulty

The trail is rated a 5 but can be done with a stock UTV. There are loose rocks along the trail, which makes it harder for dirt bikes in some portions. For UTV riders, this will be a great way to build some experience driving. The views and sights along the way make this trail completely worthwhile.

History

This trail covers the old Matheson Tramway that used to carry iron pyrite from Hornet Mine to Matheson.

Technical Rating

5

Status Reports

Patrick N
Jul 06, 2025
4x4
Obstructed
Downed Tree
Started at the Iron Mountain staging and took trail 4. After passing hang glider hill and just before you get to trail 2, there is a very large downed tree.
Jake Ellis
May 04, 2025
4x4
Open
Normal
Dusty
Took trail 3 to 4. Completed 4 in its entirety. There are a couple really challenging spots on 4. The majority of 4 is pretty easy, just a lot of steep inclines and rocky downgrades.
Steven White
Sep 28, 2024
2020 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Dusty
Rough/Deteriorated
Plenty of places to stop and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley and Shasta Lake! Good mix of rocky portions, hills, and areas to pick up speed before climbing. Had a ton of fun out there
Michael Whitmore
Sep 06, 2024
2017 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Dusty

Matheson Trams can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High-Clearance 4x4
  • SUV
  • SxS (60")
  • ATV (50")
  • Dirt Bike

Access Description

From Shasta Dam, go over the dam and wind down the paved road to the OHV staging area. The trail starts off with about 100 yards of pavement before turning into a gravel road.

Matheson Trams Map

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