Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood

Total Miles
11.7

Elevation

1,692.65 ft

Duration

2 Hours

Technical Rating

3

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Fall, Winter

Trail Overview

Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood is a trail that scales Rouse Ridge/Thomas Mountain using Cottonwood (6S18) and Thomas Mountain Rd (6S13). This trail offers stunning views in all directions as you ascend and descend the mountain. While it is possible to complete this trail in either direction, the southern face of Rouse Ridge has greater elevation gain with a more technical road. In winter months, as shown in the pictures, there may be snow on the northern side of the ridge. Some drivers may prefer to start on the southern side depending on skill level and vehicle. In addition, coming down the northern face allows unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountain Range.

Photos of Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood

Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood
Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood
Rouse Ridge via Cottonwood

Difficulty

This trail is not particularly challenging and can be completed in stock high-clearance 4x4 vehicles. Larger vehicles may face problems with tight turns or some of the small scattered obstacles.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

Liam Vasquez
Apr 20, 2024
Open
Normal
Andrew Hughes
Apr 07, 2024
2023 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Muddy/Wet
Amazingly, even at 50+ degrees, some areas still had an inch or so of snow. This, of course, creates a number of small streams, puddles, and mud. This would be a 2 if it weren’t for some rutting.
Greg Aujero
Mar 16, 2024
2020 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Muddy/Wet
Snow/Ice
Rough/Deteriorated
Daymian Montes
Mar 07, 2024
Dirt Bike
Open
Normal
Muddy/Wet
Rough/Deteriorated
Really fun. Was my first trail ever on a bike. Went solo wasn't bad at all. I stayed to the inside. Big ruts and a couple big holes on the outside (will take you out if not carful) but really fun

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