Big Slough Follow-Along
Total Miles
3.6
Elevation
69.42 ft
Duration
0.5 Hours
Technical Rating
Best Time
Summer, Winter
Trail Overview
As you follow the old FSR 517, you'll ride up the only section of road that practically borders an entire side of the Big Slough Wilderness area. The road here transitions between gravel and dirt, so there are quite a few ruts throughout this trail due to erosion and water flow. But overall, if you're driving this trail during the proper season, it's a beautiful drive with plenty of wildlife and American Beauty Berries, and it ends at a great little clearing that would be perfect for some dispersed camping fun. If it's raining, be very careful on this trail as the water level can rise quickly due to the multiple ways here.
Photos of Big Slough Follow-Along
Difficulty
This trail is not too technical unless the rain is coming through. While switching between gravel and dirt, the road narrows and widens according to the surrounding water ways. The ruts are not too deep, and the gravel is not accompanied by wash-boarded roads. Depending on when you take this trail, you could encounter small water crossings or unpassable sections covered in the overwhelming natural water saturation forming deep thick mud. The vegetation also clings really tightly to the road, so pinstriping could be a very likely reality.
History
A few lesser known primitive camping sites here include: Scurlocks Camp, Pond Camp, Walnut Creek Camp, & Camp Four. But all in all, there is a lot of dispersed camping, and if you find a hiker, help them!