Signal Peak

Total Miles
4.0

Elevation

2,373.55 ft

Duration

5 Hours

Technical Rating

6

Moderate

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Signal Peak is neither "easy" nor "beginner", despite being deemed so by many locals in comparison to the Fordyce trail - which also begins from the Pierce Meadow Staging Area. It is recommended to have experience, equipment, and a vehicle capable of handling multiple surface types. While the terrain is mostly rock, there are many quick transitions to and from hard, soft, and slick surfaces - even during summer months. There are steep embankments, slick rocks, tree roots, hard-packed dirt, soft dirt, mud, and shifting rock along the route. The most difficult obstacles are near the beginning of the trail, but challenges abound along the entire course. One such challenge is finding a turn-around spot if daylight starts running short.Signal Peak is so named because there are communications towers at the facility atop the peak. As such, there is a strong cellular signal for most carriers along the vast majority of the trail.

Photos of Signal Peak

Signal Peak
Signal Peak

Difficulty

There are multiple areas where rollovers are possible, especially during a curved pass that measures 26 degrees off-camber - with a steep drop to one side with a hill on the other. Large rock obstacles abound mixed with slick tree roots, and occasional fallen trees. There are multiple large mud holes along the route, as well as a large stretch of loose rocky trail with steep drops alongside.

Technical Rating

6

Status Reports

Access Description

From I-80 (either direction) take exit 164 for Eagle Lakes Road. Follow Eagle Lakes Road and turn right at the sign that says "Indian Springs OHV STAGING AREA", which is approximately located at 39.33017, -120.57015. Follow that road until you come to the staging area. The trail entrance is clearly marked, to the right as you pass through the staging area, and before the entrance to Fordyce Jeep Trail.

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