Trail Overview
This is a short out-and-back route that offers tremendous views and a rewarding off-road experience, but larger vehicles should use caution before committing to the final section. The trail begins as an easy, well-graded dirt road before gradually climbing into steeper terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter loose-rock sections that require careful wheel placement, particularly as you approach a sharp 90-degree right-hand switchback. The best views are found beyond this point, but when you reach the BLM sign warning of a gate ahead, this is likely your last practical opportunity to turn around in a larger vehicle. Beyond the sign, the trail continues along a spectacular shelf road toward the closed gate, but turning around can be extremely difficult for anything larger than an ATV or small SxS, and you may find yourself backing down the trail. If you can safely make it to the end, the panoramic views are impressive, and the return trip is just as scenic, with the landscape opening up beautifully as you descend the same route.
Difficulty
The only difficult sections of this trail are a few ruts and a moderately steep stretch of loose rock that may require 4WD, particularly in loose or wet conditions. Aside from these sections, the route is relatively straightforward and should be manageable for most high-clearance vehicles. The primary concern is knowing when to turn around based on the size and maneuverability of your vehicle as you approach the closed gate on the shelf road near the end of the trail.
