Five Mile Pass

Five Mile Pass is an unmaintained trail that tracks one of several valleys in the area with some changes in elevation and great views. The road is primarily dirt and rock, with some rock gardens towards the eastern portion. Signs of light maintenance at the middle of the trail, possibly by local ranchers, but very muddy areas when wet. There are several spots on the trail where evidence of water runoff has been present and may introduce shallow water crossings after rain or snow runoff, however, some of the larger runoffs showed signs of water that may have reached above 12" in depth. While dry the trail is easy and accessible by most 4x4 or 4WD vehicles. With snow, better tires will be necessary as the surface turned to slick mud quickly with the rocks becoming iced over. The trail does offer some lines that are slightly more difficult with ruts and larger rocks, these should be avoided by unmodified vehicles during snow or rain. The road is wide enough for two vehicles or passing with some areas of the trail being only one vehicle wide with no place to pass. There is a heavy presence of cattle in the area, however, vehicle traffic was minimal with only a couple of ranchers on SxS. Only one gate on the eastern side of the trail just before the end clearly marked "please keep closed". Overall the trail is a good mix of terrain and obstacles making for a good beginner trail in dry conditions. There is very little cell phone service through the trail with the signal becoming stronger towards either end where it intersects Hale Lake Trail.