Trail Overview

This trail can be driven in a loop or as a one-way between the towns of Boulder, Clancy, or Rimini. The road from Clancy gets very rutted and is not very scenic. The loop is very entertaining; there are many tight trees and fallen log obstacles. There aren't many rocks except for one short but technical boulder section. There are several lines through it and plenty of trees to winch off of. If you catch this trail early season, you will most likely encounter snow drifts and mud holes along with many fallen trees that will need to be removed. Make sure to bring a chainsaw and axe on this trail.

Photos of Lava Mountain Loop

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Difficulty

The boulder section could be considered a bit harder but the majority of this trail falls in the 4 category.

Technical Rating

William hunt

Sep 20, 2025

Open

very fun, you should try it! This is a tough trail and should have good equipment! Be prepared, a winch would be a great idea! Extra food and drinks recommended.

Jon Was Here

Aug 16, 2025

Open

The boulder section here is NO JOKE. I have a TJ with 4" lift, 33's, lockers, and moderate skills, and no way I would attempt this without a spotter and a second rig to winch me when I high center on the rocks. Otherwise, the rest of the trail from Wickes and around the East of Lava was fairly mild with some fun hills and loose/wet rocks.

Jaime DelTiempo

Jul 05, 2025

Open

after driving from the turn off into lava rock loop it didn't seemed that bad as someone else rated 4, turns out to be pretty deep rut, rock sliders, winch, and 4 plus inch lift recommended for most 4x4 trucks. it was a tight space to turn around until I found a wash out to back into and turn around.