Trail Overview

This is a unique trail that travels along the west side of Crater Island over the mud flats. The landscape feels other-worldly and has nice views of Crater Island and the Pilot Mountain Range. The trail can be a little difficult to follow at times; stick to the tire tracks and keep an eye on the map. This trail is not recommended in early spring or anytime there has been a lot of rain--it will likely get muddy and there is a good chance of getting stuck or causing trail damage.

Photos of West Crater Island

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Difficulty

Most of the trail is smooth mud flats but there are some dips and washes to be aware of that can come up suddenly. The trail difficulty is likely to increase with rain and mud.

Technical Rating

Russell C

May 26, 2025

Open

Started from north side of the island going south. Trail is very difficult to follow even with GPS. There are many other tracks in the playa. Ended up following more traveled tracks near the end and had difficulty getting back to main road out. Difficulty of 2/10 is misleading when the main roads coming in are 1/10 or 3/10 on the other side of island. This was the most sketchy section. Survived in a stock 4runner, but don't think I'll do it again.