The Painted Rock Gorge - BLM 130

Trail Overview

The Painted Rock Gorge is a famous gorge with a colorful rock system that draws visitors to its spectacular geology. The route features many small rock gardens with most rocks under 12 inches, though you may see a few up to 18 inches scattered throughout. You'll encounter some steps under 18 inches, adding vertical challenges. Although it can get narrow at times, there are usually spaces to pass each other, making two-way traffic manageable. Although high clearance is not necessarily needed in the first couple of miles, where good clearance is sufficient, four wheel drive and high clearance with good tires become highly recommended and are required once you start to climb out of the canyon. You'll find sections with deep ruts under 18 inches throughout. The trail runs along a shelf cliff road at various times, so be aware of others coming the other way. There are lots of switchbacks as you navigate the terrain. Near the end, there is a section that has ruts 18 to 24 inches deep caused by erosion with loose rock and sand, creating a serious final challenge. It is smooth sailing after this one. The views are spectacular.

Photos of The Painted Rock Gorge - BLM 130

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Difficulty

This is a challenging trail that starts moderate, but becomes technical. Four wheel drive and high clearance with good tires are highly recommended and become required when climbing out of the canyon. The many rock gardens with rocks up to 18 inches and rock obstacles demand skilled driving. Sections with deep ruts under 18 inches require high clearance throughout. The shelf cliff roads with lots of switchbacks require careful navigation and awareness of oncoming traffic. The section near the end with ruts 18 to 24 inches in loose rock and sand is extremely challenging and may stop some vehicles.

Technical Rating

The Painted Rock Gorge - BLM 130 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike