Trail Overview
BLM 46H is a highly engaging, 2.2-mile out-and-back backcountry route that treats off-road explorers to a deeply secluded, distinctly rugged high-desert transit. The notably tight and twisty rock trail playfully meanders through a remarkably dense landscape heavily populated by mature green juniper trees, thick brush, and scattered desert cactus under a brilliant blue sky. Along this beautifully intimate drive, visitors will quickly discover numerous flat, highly inviting dispersed campsites perfectly positioned off the path for an isolated overnight stay. A crucial characteristic of this specific environment is the considerable abundance of highly fragile cryptobiotic soil found all over the place on either side of the tracks; travelers must stay strictly on the designated path to properly "tiptoe through the crypto" and protect this living desert crust. The remarkably scenic journey officially culminates at the dramatic edge of an elevated bluff, deeply rewarding drivers with breathtaking, panoramic views looking straight down into the vast canyon and directly onto the lower barracks trail.
Difficulty
While the trail generally avoids severe, vehicle-breaking ledges, safely navigating BLM 46H requires careful attention and a capable, high-clearance vehicle. The primary challenge stems from the exceptionally narrow, twisting nature of the rocky driving corridor. Because the distinctly tight path heavily meanders directly between rigid juniper trees, encroaching brush, and sharp cactus, aggressive cosmetic pinstriping along your vehicle's side panels is a guarantee for anything larger than a short-wheelbase 4x4. Furthermore, drivers are strictly forced to maintain precise tire placement to safely clear the uneven rocky sections and, most importantly, to avoid crushing the highly fragile cryptobiotic soil thriving immediately off the trail edges.
