Gale Creek - FS 4948

Total Miles3.5
Technical Rating
1Easy
Best TimeSpring, Summer, Fall
Trail TypeFull-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

Gale Creek Road via Forest Service Road 4948 is an easy-to-moderate off-road route offering a relaxed drive through classic Pacific Northwest forest. The road surface shifts from well-graded gravel to compacted dirt with light washboarding, shallow potholes, and a few embedded rocks. Seasonal moisture can introduce mild mud in low spots, but the trail remains manageable for most stock 4x4s. The route winds through dense fir and cedar stands, with occasional openings that reveal filtered mountain views. You’ll pass near Gale Creek, where small pullouts make for quiet stops, and dispersed campsites appear toward the upper stretches of the road. With its mellow terrain and peaceful scenery, FS 4948 is an ideal choice for a scenic, low-stress overland outing.

Photos of Gale Creek - FS 4948

Difficulty

Easy route with just about any vehicle other than a low car.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

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Tim O'Brien
Jul 12, 2026
2025 Jeep Wrangler
Open
NormalDusty
Not busy, one or two other vehicles. Dusty and fine for factory clearance. Wouldn't try with anything low clearance.
Stormi Paulsen
Jul 10, 2026
2003 Nissan XTERRA
Open
NormalDusty
Road was in decent condition. We did not encounter many people for a sunny, warm Friday. North Gale Creek is washed out but doable in a high clearance 4x4.

Gale Creek - FS 4948 Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

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

Gale Creek - FS 4948 Map

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