Trail Overview
Branching off Harrison Ridge Road - FS 21N20, Sly Harry - FS 20N80 is an adventurous single-track dirt spur descending southward toward the scenic shoreline of Sly Creek Reservoir. The route traverses a lush, deeply shaded conifer woodland within the Plumas National Forest, surrounded by mature pines, fragrant cedars, and a dense mountain shrub understory. This narrow, native-dirt out-and-back spur earns a technical rating of 3 due to undulating terrain, pronounced erosion channels, and deadfall obstacles. Several primitive dispersed camping turnouts dot the corridor, starting with a solo vehicle clearing near the first bend, a midway pullout, and a two-vehicle turnaround area at the end of the line. Forward vehicle travel terminates abruptly at the final campsite where large fallen trees span the roadway. Forest visitors utilize this rustic track primarily for private lakeside dispersed camping, staging water recreation, and exploring quiet backcountry pockets.
Difficulty
Rated a 3, this native-dirt spur requires an attentive pace and careful tire placement to protect lower vehicle clearances. While the initial stretch features relatively flat, packed earth, the middle section introduces prominent cross-ruts, rolling mounds, and recessed washouts. To maneuver these obstacles safely without bottoming out, travel at a slow, controlled speed and place your tires on the high ridges of the ruts rather than dropping down into the deep grooves. Watch for stray woody debris along the edges, and be prepared to stop at the downed tree barrier, which offers a level dirt pad to turn around without difficulty.
