Quatal Canyon

Trail Overview

Quatal Canyon Road is a moderate offroad route in California's Los Padres National Forest that offers remote backcountry access and rugged, scenic terrain for high-clearance 4WDs, dual-sport motorcycles, and side-by-sides. It is a fun, mostly straight trail cutting between California Route 33 and Mil Potrero Road. If coming from Pine Mountain Club, it is a short winding shelf road opening up to the canyon bottom, where it becomes mostly straight and wide. Be vigilant, as some deep, narrow washes are not telegraphed well and could easily cause some real damage if hit at speed. If you are paying attention, you can get some good pulls in between them, and once you get closer to Route 33, you can really open up and have some fast fun. Much of the route is manageable in dry conditions, but narrow shelf roads and erosion-prone areas demand careful navigation, especially after rain or during spring runoff. The trail is typically open from spring through fall, though it may close during fire danger periods or become impassable in winter due to snow. Cell coverage is minimal, and there are no services along the way, so fuel up beforehand and pack extra supplies. Be mindful, as there are some sparse residents in this area with pets.

Photos of Quatal Canyon

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Difficulty

This trail features a few washouts across the road, roughly a foot deep. These sections are easily manageable with careful driving.

Technical Rating

Quatal Canyon can be accessed by the following ride types:

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