Trail Overview

This is a fast, wide, graded forest service road that serves as the essential gateway to the highly challenging Mirror, Strawberry, and Coyote Lakes trail network. This major 6.2-mile high-country road is designed for speed, consisting mostly of fast, wide decomposed granite. However, the path frequently introduces intermittent sections of chunky embedded rock and loose gravel that force you to slow down considerably. The entire route runs through the massive 2020 Creek Wildfire burn scar, creating dramatic exposure and panoramic views. WARNING: This exposed environment means the risk of falling snags and deadfall is extreme and requires constant vigilance.

Photos of Red Mountain - FS 8S010

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

This road earns its 2 rating primarily from the embedded, softball-sized rock clusters that appear unexpectedly in the decomposed granite tread. No technical 4WD is required; the difficulty is managing your speed and avoiding suspension damage. High clearance is highly recommended to clear the scattered rocks and prevent undercarriage hits, as a stock vehicle may scrape heavily in certain patches. It’s an easy trail that keeps you honest.

Technical Rating