Big Ten

Trail Overview

Big Ten is a spirited and physically engaging out-and-back run that carries you from the open sagebrush basins into the dramatic foothills of Hot Peak and Sheep Mountain. The journey across the high-desert floor offers outstanding panoramic views of the valley below, providing a profound sense of the "Basin and Range" scale. As you approach the towering base of the mountains, the trail transitions into a complex "spiderweb" network of old two-tracks, inviting hours of exploration into the remote folds of the range. The driving experience is technical and requires constant attention. The route follows a natural creek bed for much of its length, which has created a "lopsided" trail surface. One side of your vehicle will frequently be riding in a deep, eroded rut while the other remains on higher ground, resulting in sustained off-camber tilts and a significant risk of high-centering. As you navigate the ascent and the return descent, you will encounter sections of "braiding" where previous travelers have carved paths around the deepest and most treacherous ruts. Keep your eyes sharp for the local residents; this area is a stronghold for herds of Pronghorn Antelope and bands of wild mustangs. A high-clearance 4x4 is required. Mid-size vehicles or shorter-wheelbase SUVs (like Jeeps) will have an easier time navigating the uneven ruts than long-wheelbase full-size trucks. Expect zero cell service for the duration of this trail. The massive silhouettes of Hot Peak and Sheep Mountain block all signals from the valley. Download offline maps before heading into the backcountry.

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Difficulty

Rated a 3 due to the combination of deep, lopsided ruts and rocky terrain. Precise tire placement is mandatory to prevent your undercarriage or differentials from making contact with the high center berm. Stay on the most established path possible. Be aware that the "braided" sections around deep washouts can be soft and may have hidden rocks.

Technical Rating

Big Ten can be accessed by the following ride types:

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