Dalton Canyon Loop

Total Miles 5.7
Technical Rating
4 Moderate
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

Dalton Canyon Loop is a narrow, overgrown out-and-back loop that takes drivers through some very thick brush, almost resembling trails found in South America. The trail is lined with dense green foliage, which is overgrown and impedes the trail, and provides, in some sections, a low overhead clearance. Once out of the heavily overgrown sections, the rock and dirt surface leads to a few open meadows and short, steep grades with loose rocky surfaces. While there are no notable above-grade obstacles over 10 inches in size, the trail has some ruts that can be 18 to 20 inches deep and off-camber. The trail is primarily single vehicle wide with a few areas to pull off if traffic is encountered. Still, it should be easily traversed by most high-clearance AWD and 4x4 vehicles without issue. Cell service is weak throughout the trail and much of the surrounding area, so it's highly recommended to download offline maps before proceeding into the area. Dispersed camping is permitted except for the first mile of the trail; however, there are several opportunities and clearings along the remainder for individual and small group camping areas.

Photos of Dalton Canyon Loop

Difficulty

Trail is extremely narrow with little room to pass, with thick brush impeding on the trail. There are loose rocks throughout the trail that can be up to 10 inches in size, but the biggest obstacle will be the rutting that can be in excess of 18 inches in depth. There are also several short steep grades over loose rocks and soft dirt.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

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Adrian Gallegos
Nov 01, 2025
Open
Start of the trail was uphill, quite rocky and loose gravel with a steep drop to the left. Nothing too hard, we are beginners and got by. Parts of the trail were smooth and had a few open areas to take breaks if needed. Ran into some decent puddles with mud, which is normal for this time of year. Bikes were able to get through somewhat easy. We did half the loop as we got a little lost, so we turned back and followed the trail back down. Coming down felt easier. Overall very fun, definitely would do again. We saw 2 or 3 small trucks also doing the trail, single lane the whole way.

Dalton Canyon Loop Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Dalton Canyon Loop Map

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