Trail Overview
Connecting Forest Road M22 and Forest Road M2, Tatham Ridge - FS 24N04 is a thrilling 10-mile ridge run offering expansive valley vistas and cool pine-shaded stretches throughout the Mendocino National Forest. Traversing a high-altitude landscape recovering from the catastrophic 2020 August Complex Wildfire, the trail passes through cleared burn areas with charred snags offset by regenerating green brush and lush pockets of surviving pine timber. The road surface consists primarily of a wide, well-maintained dirt and gravel track featuring minimal rutting, though sections of loose soil near the 2.4-mile mark can become slick when wet. Outdoor enthusiasts frequently use this route to reach prime backcountry camping locations, including massive flat clearings at miles 2.9, 5.5, and 6.1, as well as accessing Post Pile Campground at mile 3.3 and Williams Camp at mile 3.7. The final three miles feature a dramatic descent into the valley before terminating near a seasonal gate at mile 9
Difficulty
Earning a difficulty rating of 1, this wide two-lane forest service road presents a smooth, beginner-friendly drive with zero high-clearance obstacles or technical rock sections. The route has been thoroughly cleared of downed trees and debris, maintaining a firm base with negligible potholes. A basic low-clearance AWD vehicle will comfortably handle the entire distance during dry conditions, though extra caution should be exercised along the loose soil at mile 2.4 during rainy weather to avoid sliding
