Trail Overview

This is the heart of Los Padres National Forest the Santa Lucia Ranger District. The route is mostly chaparral with a few sections of various pine trees. Late spring or early summer is the best time to see wildflowers in bloom. High clearance is needed for the potential deep ruts and erosions after the rainy season. There are some sections of the trail that are on a narrow ledge. You will need an Adventure Pass, this can bed obtained at Big Five or the ranger station or America is Beautiful. Please note: there was a large fire in this area in July 2024.

Photos of Zaca Ridge Road

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Difficulty

This trail is at a very high risk for erosion after storms, the trail is made up of clay-type dirt. There are many places with run-offs that can cause deep ruts. There are also a few sections that have narrow corniche.

Technical Rating

Owen Gorman

Oct 25, 2025

Open

Gate was locked “due to Gifford fire”. Plenty of cars using the parking area next to the gate on a Saturday afternoon.

Taylor B

Jun 24, 2025

Open

Beautiful afternoon on fig mountain. People walking on the trail. 4x4 was unnecessary for the whole duration of the trail. Didn’t see any other vehicles. Still a lot of burn scar from the lake fire last year and certain trails and campsites are closed. Overall really cool place to hike and get dirty in your ride

Frank Banks

May 26, 2025

Open

Loose rocks, ruts, scorched timber on sides of trail nothing in the way lots of dry brush but a relatively clean trail

Paul Bunnell

Apr 27, 2025

Open

Trial looks nice and had a lot of work done on it. Muddy conditions but should dry within a week or 2. Had someone stuck at the entrance but due to them pulling a trailer in 2wd in mud.

Paul Bunnell

Apr 06, 2025

Open

Gate closed. Unknown when it’ll open again.

L S

Feb 16, 2025

Open