Trail Overview

This beach trail is all sand but can be run by any vehicle. Be aware of tide conditions before setting up camp, as water levels can move quite a bit. The trail can be run in either direction and offers free camping anywhere along the beach. This beach is well known for its excellent surf fishing. The east end of the trail has vault bathrooms available and an open-air shower to rinse off the sand. There are also large trash bins at the east entrance. Be sure to stay off the dunes that are marked for protected bird nesting.

Photos of Rutherford Beach Mesquite Ridge

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Difficulty

This trail is mostly packed sand but can have water crossing depending on tide conditions.

History

You can see the erosion that multiple hurricanes have caused. The trail used to be 100 yards further south before hurricanes reclaimed the land.

Technical Rating

Kayla Gremillion

Nov 06, 2025

Open

It was great! Loved the ledges and obstacles here and there. I def wouldn’t ride along side of the dune ledge if not an experienced driver. There are all kinds of trails. On the beach aside the beach and even a bit more north as well. Beach is very clean.

Alex Copeland

Jun 27, 2025

Open

Packed sand, came in at high tide so some of the trail was inaccessible. Awesome options for beach camping.

Mark Moore

Apr 20, 2024

Open