Sierra Laguna

Trail Overview

This off-road trail starts as a well-graded, heavily traveled, and corrugated route off Highway 1, accessible to most vehicles, including 2WD. The first 8 to 10 miles are characterized by washboard terrain that gradually smooths out, unveiling increasingly captivating views. At the 13-mile mark, you'll encounter the first expansive arroyo, an ideal camping spot, with many more scenic sites to follow. The landscape transforms into a stunning mix of desert vistas, oak groves, mountains, and tropical vegetation, often blending into a single remarkable panorama. Low-hanging cables and waterlines around mile 15, approximately 11 feet high, may pose challenges for larger rigs. Beyond this point, steep, slick sections reinforced with concrete require caution, especially for 2WD vehicles without aired-down tires or experienced drivers. The route continues over summits offering breathtaking ocean views before reaching the final ranch, home to wild pigs resembling javelinas. The trail culminates at a high vantage point with ocean vistas, a fork in the road, and a small, inviting camping spot perfect for Overland adventurers.

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Difficulty

Although this trail is rated for 2WD, the section at the 15-mile mark introduces sections that may require an experienced driver, proper tire pressure adjustment, and sufficient weight over the drive tires. The final 6 miles feature steep and slick climbs that can be challenging for 2WD vehicles but are easily navigated with 4WD, whether or not tires are aired down. The first 15 miles are easily manageable for 2WD vehicles, and even the more difficult final stretch is often traversed by local ranchers in 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Although shallow on this day, water crossings will be deeper after rain and storms.

Technical Rating