Forest Service Road 493

Total Miles
7.7

Technical Rating

1

Best Time

Spring, Fall, Winter, Summer

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

This trail is primarily a single-lane, well-maintained gravel route that winds through a scenic forested landscape with rolling terrain, including gentle ups and downs. Along the way, it passes several creeks and wetlands before reaching a sign indicating that public use is permitted only during dry or frozen conditions, so caution is advised after rainfall. There are a few residences near the lake, and the route eventually splits into unnamed paths and private property. As the trail enters the boundaries of the national forest, the environment changes noticeably. The surrounding vegetation shifts to pine and spruce, adding a range of seasonal colors. The gravel surface becomes finer in this section and may be slippery in spots. Several side trails branch off from the main route, and the area is frequently used by ATV and side-by-side riders. The trail is also known locally as a good spot for berry picking. ATVs are permitted along the entire route. There are no formal or dispersed campsites along this trail, and it lacks basic services such as trash disposal and potable water. Cell reception may be limited or unavailable in some areas.

Photos of Forest Service Road 493

Forest Service Road 493
Forest Service Road 493

Difficulty

The trail is maintained but can develop light overgrowth between trims, especially in the summer months. Commonly used by local OHV traffic, the path remains visible and passable, though branches and low brush may occasionally encroach. This trail can only be accessed during dry or frozen months.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Forest Service Road 493 can be accessed by the following ride types:

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

Access Description

The trail can be accessed from Elephant Lake.

Forest Service Road 493 Map

Popular Trails

The onX Offroad Difference

onX Offroad combines trail photos, descriptions, difficulty ratings, width restrictions, seasonality, and more in a user-friendly interface. Available on all devices, with offline access and full compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto. Discover what you’re missing today!