Trail Overview
This is both a point-to-point trail (for dirt bikes only) and an out-and-back trail (for all other OHV and 4x4 vehicles) that runs along the San Guillermo Creek bed. The west end begins at the east end of the Yellowjacket Singletrack trail, allowing dirt bikes to travel from Grade Valley/Mutau Flats over to the south Frazier Mountain area. From this side, the trail is relatively flat, has occasional whoops, loose rocks, and shallow ruts as it runs to the east. Near the halfway point, the trail intersects with Lockwood Creek Trail (FS 20W06), which is the main access point for 4x4s and other OHVs. Continuing to the east from this crossroads, the trail immediately becomes more challenging, traveling through a rock garden section and then beginning a series of creek crossings. Depending on the time of year, these crossings may have water up to 2-3 feet deep and 10+ feet wide. Some have muddy bottoms, and others have large rocks. The surrounding vegetation can be tight around the water crossings as well, and will be especially challenging for larger vehicles such as 4x4s. Expect scraping and pinstripping on larger vehicles. In the final stretch of the trail near the east end, the trail narrows significantly and really isn't much wider than a singletrack in some places as it runs down the middle of the creek. The trail eventually deadends near an old trailhead, which has been closed to all motor vehicles. There is an open space at this spot with room for 3-4 vehicles to park and turn around. It is also large enough for 2-3 vehicles to set up overnight camp, which is allowed off the trail. The trail is closed annually from 11/2 to 4/30. A green/red sticker is required for OHV as well as a Day Use pass fee payable to the Los Padres National Forest. Weak or no cellular service in the area. Tread Lightly and Pack-It-Out.
Difficulty
The west side of this trail, running from Lockwood Creek Trail, is fairly mild with some whoops, shallow ruts, and loose and embedded small rocks. The east side, however, is more challenging, running back-and-forth across the San Guillermo Creek, through several rock gardens with medium-sized rocks, and through areas of tight vegetation. Depending on the time of year, water depth in the creek could be up to 2-3 feet deep. There are few to no places to pull off the trail on the east side until the end and no bypasses.
