Trail Overview
Trails Access Road (FS44526A) is an unmaintained and evocative route that serves as a "backdoor" into a sprawling spiderweb of unmarked backcountry trails. This route is perfect for those who enjoy the feeling of being "off the map," as it pushes deep into the rugged hills where the standard forest service maintenance ends and true wilderness begins. The trail winds through an intimate and fragrant tunnel of dense Pinyon Pine and Utah Juniper, offering a stark contrast to the wide-open sagebrush basins found at the mountain’s base. The track is exceptionally narrow and has seen significant natural reclamation; the heavy brush and low-hanging branches are impossible to avoid. Drivers should also be prepared for several rocky segments and steep, abrupt transitions as the trail drops into and climbs out of natural washes. While full-size rigs can physically fit, this trail is primarily a paradise for ATVs and dirt bikes, offering access to an expansive network of secondary trails that aren't visible on most standard maps.
Expect zero cell service on this route. The dense timber and high ridges block all incoming signals. Download offline maps before leaving the Tonopah or Manhattan area. Nevada is remote and arid. Carry at least one gallon of fresh water per person per day.
Difficulty
Rated a 3 due to the combination of extreme narrowness and several steep wash transitions. This is a very narrow trail with heavy encroaching vegetation. The tight turns and dense overgrowth make this route much more enjoyable for motorcycles, ATVs, or very narrow-body OHVs.
