Trail Overview
Thanksgiving Rock Road is a very narrow route with overgrown vegetation that makes pinstriping likely. The trail consists primarily of gravel and frequent rock gardens with 2–6 inch rocks. Ruts reach 6–8 inches deep, with sections reaching approximately 8° off-camber as the route travels toward Thanksgiving Rock, a popular climbing area.
The trail follows alongside the Sawtooth Hills and unique rock formations, providing access to numerous camping and climbing spots. Dozens of level campsites offer fire rings, scenic views, and room for six to eight vehicles each. The trail ends at a large campsite and parking area accommodating approximately 12 vehicles with access to the surrounding climbing areas.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 2 because of its narrow terrain, 6–8-inch ruts, 2–6-inch rock gardens, and sections reaching 8° off-camber. The obstacles are relatively mild, although overgrown vegetation makes pinstriping likely.
History
The BLM lands around Sawtooth Canyon reflect the long history of California’s Mojave Desert, where Indigenous peoples traveled and lived for thousands of years before miners, ranchers, and settlers arrived in the 1800s. The surrounding desert also contains remnants of the region’s mining and homesteading era, while its rugged volcanic rock formations preserve a much older geologic history.
Offroad