Trail Overview
Mendo-Lake Road is an easy 13-mile dirt route serving as the primary corridor through the South Cow Mountain OHV Management Area between Ukiah and Lakeport. The wide, well-maintained road climbs from 1,480 feet to a maximum elevation of 3,223 feet, offering panoramic views of Clear Lake, Lakeport, and the Ukiah Valley. It is suitable for standard high-clearance vehicles in dry conditions, with occasional minor ruts that are easily navigated at low speeds.
As the backbone of the recreation area, the route provides direct access to more challenging secondary trails and multiple campsites. Wet weather can quickly degrade the dirt surface, and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) may implement temporary closures during heavy winter rains. The route winds through the Mayacamas Mountains past old-growth fir, oak groves and active wildlife habitats supporting blacktail deer, black bears and wild turkeys.
History
The South Cow Mountain OHV Management Area is located within the Mayacamas Mountains, east of the city of Ukiah and west of the city of Lakeport, in Northwestern California. The area offers beautiful views of Ukiah and Lake County; pockets of old-growth fir; several species of oak; willows; over 31 miles of stream; 13 reservoirs; and habitat for blacktail deer, bear, wild turkey, and other upland species.
Access Description
The South Cow Mountain OHV Management Area is subject to temporary closures during periods of heavy rainfall to protect the trails. Visitors should contact the BLM Ukiah Field Office at (707) 468-4000 to verify trail status before visiting. No fees or permits are required to access the main road, but there is no potable water available on site, so travelers must pack in their own supplies.
