Cerro Encinoso Loop

Trail Overview

Cerro Encinoso Loop begins immediately off CR-34 and is an easy dirt two-track for the first mile before making its steeper 19.4% grade climb up to the Cerro Encinoso plateau and continuing on to Hogback Hill. The climb up is over a rocky and lightly rutted uneven surface that most 4WD vehicles will be able to complete. After making the summit of the hill the surface becomes primarily dirt with some minor rutting that is surrounded by open grasslands. The views along Hogback Hill are wide and expansive, giving clear views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Before the trail intersects itself again, there is another low-grade descent over a rocky surface before it levels out onto a dirt two-track again. Dispersed camping is permitted along the entire length of the highlighted trail. There are additional spurs off the main route to explore, however, dispersed camping is not permitted along the optional trails. Cell service is strong at the summit of Cerro Encinoso and Hogback Hill, becoming weak at the lower section before becoming stronger along CR-34.

Photos of Cerro Encinoso Loop

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Difficulty

The ascent up to the Cerro Encinoso summit is just over a 19% grade over a loose rocky surface with some minor rutting along its path. There are no other major obstacles along the trail. Ruts are around 10 inches in depth but may become slightly deeper with wet weather and water flow or traffic.

Technical Rating