I want to say the trail was around 28 miles from the visitor center right off CA-14. From the beginning to the top where we camped, I want to say it only took 1-2 hours, depending on how fast you drive and any stops. It also depends on how far into the mountain you go.

Really appreciate the feedback. So cool been wanting ride up in the forest.

Not for this trail. Just have decent tires and some clearance. The switch backs get tight so I wouldn’t recommend a trailer

@@stacky512a yeah, the fire lookout is still there. It’s at the top of Boulder Basin campground. As far as the road conditions, I’ve driven up in different conditions. At the beginning of the season the trail is normally maintained well so most cars can make it up. However, I’ve also seen it pretty messed up with a few sections that were heavily rutted. I’ve seen a few 2WD cars get stuck. The camping is still amazing up there, especially at the yellow post camp sites.

Yeah, if you use google maps just head towards boulder basin campground and the group campsites that are past them.

Not sure if it’s open, I haven’t been there in a while. 2WD should be fine, just maybe don’t go after heavy rain.

Yo, congrats on starting to climb! Yeah, climbing is super addictive, I love how it is mentally challenging as much as it is physical. I’m about to turn 40 in a few weeks, so I can definitely feel you on being an “older” and much “heavier” climber, compared to all the 130 lbs 20 years olds running around the climbing gym. I’m still climbing regularly, I usually climb twice a week and lift weights twice a week. Right now I climb v5/v6, been trying to break through to v7 but it’s been hard due to a pinky injury I had last year. I tried doing rehab but I’m now seeing a surgeon because it isn’t healing properly. I’ll try to make an updated YT video, over the last 2 years I’ve mainly just been posting on IG (@drock949), you can see my latest climbing videos there.

I would recommend 4x4 or at least AWD. I’ve seen 2WD cars/SUVs get up there but there are parts of the trail that have pretty deep ruts, where you could get stuck. If you go solo, I recommend having some kind of recovery gear, like traction boards and a shovel. Reason is because there is no reception once you hit the dirt trail.

It’s a fun trail but it’s closed now, it probably won’t reopen until closer to June. Especially with the crazy snow we recently had in SoCal.

I thought it was already open? Do you happen to know?

@@djfadestudioremix trail is still closed, more than likely till summer. I’ll update once I know it’s open. You can hike up but the gate is closed so you can’t drive up.

@@drock949 thank you!

It’s open now

It’s currently closed. You can check here www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/conditions/?cid=FSEPRD538928 I just realized I mixed up the trail ID. It should be 4S01 instead of 2E35, 2E35 is the hiking trail while 4S01 is the truck trail.

No, you don’t need a permit to head up. I would highly recommend calling the ranger station though during the winter because they usually close the trail when there is snow. They usually open it back up in the spring.

Hi Richard, when you say resources what exactly are you looking for? For example, are you looking for a recommendation on tacoma vs 4Runner? A car broker to help you find a vehicle? Are you looking for a shop to help you with mods and installation? Advice on how to get into off-roading in general? Happy to help, just want to understand what you are looking for exactly.

Yes, just don’t go in or after heavy rain. Just take it slow and you will be fine.

@@drock949 awesome, thank you.

Most of the trail is wide enough for one lane going in each direction. However, there are parts of the trail that are narrow and only wide enough for one car at a time. It isn’t bad though because there is always a spot where one person can pull over and let another person pass.

@@drock949 - thank - it looks like a fun drive, now I think I’ll try it 😊😊

@@geoffryallan7261 make sure you check this site when you plan to go because sometimes they close the trail. From my experience they usually close it after heavy rain. It doesn’t happen often but it’s a real bummer if you drive in just to find the gate closed. www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cleveland/recarea/?recid=75035

@@drock949 - thank you 😊

Sure, what's your IG? I roll with a few different groups on IG so I can let you know when we plan our next trip.

5’11”

Sorry for the super late reply, yes you can get a full size truck up there. The only part that may be tricky is literally the peak where the radio towers are. Basically when you get to the very top where the towers are, there is a short down hill to the vista point. That down hill is slightly steep with loose gravel so I've seen some trucks struggle when they leave the vista point, trying to get back up that little climb. If you have 4x4 you should be fine but if you don't, you may want to park at the top by the tower and just walk down. That way you don't risk getting stuck.

when you say you can't climb there yet what do you mean? Are you new to climbing and worried about not having enough outdoor experience? Reason I ask is because Stoney has climbs for all levels.

what rope? lol

@@drock949 hanging rope

I'm glad my climbing journey can inspire others. It's definitely been a journey. I will be releasing another video soon showing my more recent climbs.

I would recommend watching louis parkinson climbing videos. He does a good job of explaining technique. Also check out Movement for Climbers, he has some great tutorial videos for both beginner and more advanced climbing.

Nice! I’m still developing the finger strength.