10 of the Best Off-Road Trails to Challenge You in California

Get ready for heart-pounding excitement as I share 10 of my favorite challenging and breathtaking off-road trails in California, guaranteed to push your driving skills and your 4x4 vehicle to their limits!
These challenging trails are perfect for thrill-seekers wielding a Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Tacoma, or any high-clearance four wheel drive beast equipped with oversized tires and lockers. Dare to conquer these exceptional trails and satisfy your hunger for adventure.
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🎥 RELATED VIDEOS 🎥
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2. Defense Mine: • Exploring Abandoned Mi...
3. Pinyon Mountain: • Pinyon Mountain Trail ...
4. Bronco Peak: • Massive ROCKS AND RUTS...
5: Rubicon Trail: • The Rubicon Trail - Ch...
6: Slick Rock: • This Adventure Won't B...
7. John Bull: • John Bull Trail - Big ...
8 & 9. Odessa and Doran Canyon: • We Conquered the Odess...
10. Valley of the Moon: • Return to Valley of th...
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0:00 Introduction
0:50 Holcomb Creek
2:12 Defense Mine
3:24 Pinyon Mountain
4:23 Bronco Peak
5:20 Rubicon Trail
6:20 Slick Rock
8:12 John Bull
9:22 Odessa and Doran Canyon
10:49 Valley of the Moon

[@markw365]

Good list, you should check out Swamp Lake Trail, and Coyote Lake. Like the rubicon, but not as much traffic. Open late July.

[@mksman308]

You’re right California has a lot to offer. It is hard to put together a list like this. I think if you are looking for a challenging trail Fourdyce must be on the list.

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list but didn’t make this list since I haven’t done it yet. One day!

[@soynwasabi]

@@TrailRecon you really should, harder than Rubicon IMO

[@steveegbert3554]

Good time to do Fordyce for the first time is Sierra Trek

[@wemadeitthisfar5945]

Brad this is awesome. Hope you can do more states like this. Even if it’s top 5! I think we would all enjoy it. Thanks for all your time!

[@F1shifty50]

I’m 5/10. Just did Holcomb and John Bull about a month ago. Holcomb is hands down my favorite trail to date. Such a great place.

[@ronammon1573]

Excellent list of CA trails and you had a couple I haven't been on... and a couple I hope make your next list (Fordyce, Dusy-Ershim, et. al.) Hope to see you on the trail.

[@Billrovid]

Thanks for the list Brad. These trails are beyond me right now but maybe one day

[@mikegallagher2732]

Thank you Brad !!!!! I Haven't ventured into CA. yet , BUT...These trails are DEFINITELY on MY Bucket list !!!! AWESOME AS ALWAYS !!!!

[@steveegbert3554]

Good list, lots of good trails in the Sierra National Forest east of Fresno, Ducy Ersham, Swamp Lake, Mirror Lake, Brewer Lake and Bald Mountain.

[@MarioLoco03]

Oh man..."The Squeeze"...First time I took my 5th gen runner off-roading I accidentally took a trail that went to the squeeze...I turned around lol. There was a guy there sitting in a fold out chair by his jeep just waiting for people to go through it haha!

[@ajfarson]

Fordyce Trail (not the back way)! With obstacles like Winchhill 1 and 2, some would argue that it is a buggy trail, but we take our Land Cruisers up there often.

[@exploretography]

Great list Brad! We will have to get over there and run your trails soon! Another great video.. thanks!

[@AmbientMelancholy]

Love your channel! Keep the videos coming!

[@tomassanesson902]

Sooo awesome beautiful epik trail s🤘👍❤❤

[@LeFlea12]

Loved your video, as well as the easy trails video. Will you be doing a moderate trail video? Not sure if you have one up yet.

[@LuisMercadoREALESTATE]

Muy bueno. !!!!

[@vernvartdal6479]

Great list, seen videos on many. I have not built my rig for rock crawling, but I appreciate watching it and get a rush from the difficult features I have conquered.

[@sinoble]

Great list. Good advice to go with it! Thanks again Brad.

[@mikepierson3097]

Great list, Brad! Most of those are on my bucket list! Thanks!

[@fourlowadventures3921]

Great video Brad! Thanks for sharing. I only been on half of them but they are all on my list.

[@corksauve4949]

Valley of the Moon is definitely on my list (it's fairly close by). What might be nice to add (and I understand if it's not possible) is to add minimum vehicle requirements for each trail. It can me hard to tell if your vehicle is up to snuff or not for a given trail.

[@mikeandshelliesoverlanding]

Awesome list of trails. Another excellent video Brad

[@Shane7son]

Nice video. 👍🏽👍🏽 another video with more trail options to look at at Southern California and northern California

[@chrisregier251]

Thanks for this! Heading to Carlsbad late April for our national meeting. Driving out from Oklahoma. Looks like valley of the moon and defense mine might be the best choices given time of year and locations. Always appreciate you content man!!

[@theviewfrommyhammock]

I love this list

[@folafu3318]

Great list ! It will be a good bucket list for me ! Thank you.

[@OVRLNDX]

What a great video!! Thanks for the memories brother!!

[@johnnychun59]

John Bull is even more fun when there's snow and ice on the trail.

[@onetruebob_tj]

Excellent list, Brad. I'm looking forward to getting back to the West Coast for some real rock crawling and epic views.

[@BattlePhrog165]

Digging up some old school footage! I like it! 👍

[@edwardsimmons3721]

Great trails.

[@HammerHed13]

On the extreme end, The Hammer trails in Johnson Valley rock! literally.

[@manfredolson6889]

Hey Brad, Brad here .. aka Manfred Olson. Anyhoo.. been watching since you and your boys were working on some old XJ. I have an XJ which is what linked me to your videos. Anyhoo.. I typically don’t do much commenting, but I had to say that this video was incredibly informative. Your content is so well done as well. I appreciate all you have done to keep people like me informed and entertained. I’m a North County guy and perhaps I’ll run into you some day Peace and happy safe times!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you for watching and I’m glad you enjoyed the video! My boys and I had some fun with the XJ but it just wasn’t practical for a daily driver and we had to replace it with something more reliable.

[@suprareyes]

You need to try Fordyce trail. The obstacles are call winch 1 winch 2 winch 3 winch 4 and winch 5 for a reason. You will love it

[@Wolf4wdadventures.576]

Hi Brad, I'm from down Under... Australia. Just found your channel. Absolute awesome Jeep content here, just went through some of your vids over the years, well I can see how you have developed this channel. Well done! Love the trails you have in California... New subscriber. Cheers Steve. 👍

[@garykrogers1437]

Love the video! Fascinating to watch these well built rigs. I'd love to see a top trail list for stock-ish rigs. I think there would be great interest from those that have daily drivers to those who do overlanding without rock crawling. Keep the great videos coming.

[@TrailRecon]

I’ll keep that idea in mind. Thanks for watching!

[@thaddeuslove6313]

We are doing a Charity Event in Calico Mountains in October, where Doran and Odessa are located

[@charleshicks3492]

Great list and I agree in all😎😎😎😎😎😎👌👌👍👍👍👍

[@jeremyoliver]

Brad, another great video! Would love to see your top 10 for stock Jeeps, top 10 intermediate, and top 10 beginners trails. Thanks for all you do!

[@TrailRecon]

All great ideas. Thank you for watching!

[@briandbaier1469]

Yes

[@wardperozuk2288]

“This old Jeep”. Lol!! I see you did John Bull as your shakedown run, my rig is similar to yours at that point so maybe one day!. Thanks for the great video. Cheers.

[@TrailRecon]

It took me a while to get my Jeep built the way it is…you’ll get there! Thank you for watching!

[@patrickrochejr3292]

Very Nice

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

TrailRecon T-shirts are the softest I've found, was surprised at the nice quality. The TrailRecon GSI kit is exactly what I needed for compact and organized cooking gear in a small profile - it has it all

[@noobierice7274]

What are the minimum requirememts that you suggest to tackle these trails? Lockers? 35s? 40s?

[@WOOGLIN2420]

I am surprised Fordyce didn’t make the cut. But I don’t think Brad has done Fordyce yet. Maybe a Fordyce trip in the future?!?!?

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list but you’re right….I haven’t done it which is why I didn’t include it.

[@WOOGLIN2420]

@@TrailRecon all good. I will be looking forward to the upcoming Fordyce trip in the near future. 😉

[@charleswren1]

You should check out the Dusy-Ershim trail. It takes three days and better than the Rubicon trail.

[@Burke_Motorsports]

While I continue the building of my TJ and exploring Arizona trails, then I need to tackle some out of state trails.

[@garyleibitzke4166]

Nice selection. One of my favorites you didn't list is the Dusy.

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list but haven’t done it yet, which is why it didn’t make the list.

[@garyleibitzke4166]

@@TrailRecon Ahhhhh. Well get there. It's a really wonderful trail. The scenery is even better than the Rubicon.

[@tweakergarage]

Brad, great video and trails alike. I think you'd be remiss in not mentioning Johnson Valley. The mecca of rock crawling in Southern California!

[@TrailRecon]

That’s the beauty of Southern California…there are lots of great trails!

[@daviddesha5926]

Always enjoy your videos. Others mentioned how difficult it is to put together a top 10 list for Ca. Thanks for putting this together. I can’t remember have you run Hell Hole Reservoir? Another epic trail in my opinion.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! And no, I haven’t done Hell Hole Reservoir…I’ve actually never heard of it.

[@daviddesha5926]

I like it as much as slick rock. It’s an in and out trail. I would love to see a video of this trail in the future, along with Marcos epic trail food.

[@jonmac3569]

++ Fordyce, Dusey-Ershim and Coyote Lake trail (Coyote Lake near Shaver lake, not the other one)

[@chillis28]

👍👍

[@EYE50MM]

I would love to see a brief on screen description of the lift height and tire size you were running at each location. Also the recommended and not recommend lift, tire, wheel, lockers etc. I only have 35” tires on 18” wheels, however my lift is a 2.5 leveling kit. Not sure but it doesn’t inspire confidence. Thanks for your great videos! Would love to see more jk videos.

[@brooktech7869]

Im so jealous, because im an east coast Jeeper. We hit all the badge trails in NC, SC, GA, and AL, but it's so different on the west coast. We have way more tree and mud/water issues on this side than rocks. Although we have one trail at Beasley knobb that's rated 7-9 in rocks.

[@TrailRecon]

California has its share of challenges, but at least we have some great trails and plenty of public lands.

[@perrymahnke886]

Really great video & thank you for sharing. Do you plan on or have you in the past made a video geared to trails better suited for your Power Wagon & Four Wheel Campers camper (or trails in other states suited for trucks with campers)? I have a Dodge 2500 with a Four Wheel Campers camper.

[@TrailRecon]

Any of the trails I highlighted in my recent video about 10 easy trails would be fine for a RAM and Four Wheel Camper. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHyVpoCYp5uboJI

[@JessDeeganIIPhD]

How can you not include Dusy-Ershim? If you have never been, I will understand, but you should go (contact me!).

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list but I haven’t been yet, which is why it didn’t make the list.

[@RANGER2992]

Have you done Cougar Buttes. It a great area that ranges between 2-9. In a week, my group So Cal Jeep Junkies is having it's 2023 Go Topless day event. We will be camping and hitting all the trails there over the weekend. Camping starts Friday nigh and will go through Saturday night. We are having drawings, raffles and giveaways. It's going to be epic if you want to join. Then on June 4th we are doing an event called Badge Fest. We will be doing all three Jeep Badge of Honor trails during this weekend. Then on Sunday, we are doing a parade for 2 special children who are very sick with a rare genetic disorder. There will be over 100 rigs lined up and the children will drive by and get all the gifts we have for them. If you ever want to come on a trip with us, let me know.

[@timbrown7980]

We visited Valley of the Moon trail on our California road trip from Montreal. I think we ended up where we weren’t technically supposed to be even though we were using Gaia…😬. Still a fun time!

[@TrailRecon]

Ya, there are some wilderness areas you have to be mindful of that have trails leading into them, but are technically off limits. A fun place to explore!

[@timbrown7980]

@@TrailRecon we loved California!

[@The92renegade]

Hello, I love your channel and through this video, found out about your website for all your recon needs, except, you have a power wagon and I was hoping to find accessories for mine but didn’t find any. Are you planning to add accessories for them? And power wagon swag would be sweet as well, thanks

[@robsnizzle7]

Northen CALIFORNIA has some decent areas too (and I don't just mean Mendocino county) BUTTE COUNTY has some fun stuff too (IF IT'LL stop catching fire 😤😤) up past MAGALIA CA OFF THE 70... Wife an I are planning to get up there lots of stuff to see and beautiful mountain tops (Eagle Lake is one of em).

[@christyrattay5213]

The High Lakes are spectacular! Even after the Dixie Fire last year. I haven’t driven it personally, but have gone with friends in their rigs and it has some fun and challenging sections.

[@robsnizzle7]

@@christyrattay5213 dying to get back up there.... not too far from where I live (Chico). Getting my truck back from the DEALERSHIP and ready to get up there.

[@matth4069]

I'd love to explore California trails but that involves going to California so unfortunately I'm gonna have to pass lol

[@JeepBro]

I'm going to have to do some of these trails now that I have my 98 TJ. What's your opinion on putting 2.0 or 2.5 coil overs on a Jeep for a overland build?

[@GGavel]

The Dusy doesn't make this list? I'd rate it in the Top 10 in the US, let alone CA. Great crawling in beautiful scenery and camping on the shore of high mountain lakes.

[@TrailRecon]

That’s a bucket list trail but since I haven’t done it yet, it didn’t make the list.

[@rickwhitmire7933]

👍💯🏁

[@romandevengenzo4267]

Excellent list, thanks 😊 When are you gonna hit Fordyce in the JK?

[@TrailRecon]

One of these days! It’s on my bucket list…just need to find the time.

[@merlinsopenroadtherapy2641]

Hello, I live in Yuma AZ and looking at a trail rated 2017 rubicon with GFG AT. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR RECOMMENDATION FOR A 1st upgrade??

[@edwardwheeler1277]

Hey Brad great videos. Have you been to the Dusey Ershim trail above Shaver Lake? Other trails like Swamp Lake are near.

[@TrailRecon]

Not yet but I plan on it one of these days!

[@Iamnothere8406]

Have you ever been on the fire road Santiago Peak? It’s a fun and easy drive.

[@TrailRecon]

Once, a long time ago. It’s an easy scenic trail that’s great for beginners.

[@darinhamman5653]

What, no Dusy Ershim trail?

[@ccwstraightshooter9761]

What about California’s hardest trail? Fordyce trail. When you going to attempt it?

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list!

[@ccwstraightshooter9761]

@@TrailRecon Actually there are 3 fun trails all starting at the Fordyce staging area. Fordyce, signal peak and Pierce loop. Also near by is the Dutch Flat run. Tons of old gold mining caves to go into.

[@smallbrain7849]

Yooooo

[@jacobruffcorn]

Will you be going to Overland Expo East this year?

[@sunsandoverland2848]

I know had probably mentioned in a past video, but what pants do you wear? Finding good hiking pants are hard to find! Thanks Brad!

[@TrailRecon]

Don’t think I have mentioned it but I usually wear 5.11 or Off The Grid.

[@sunsandoverland2848]

@@TrailRecon thanks Brad!

[@bradleylillibridge1200]

Fordyce didn't make your list??

[@TrailRecon]

It’s on my bucket list but since I haven’t done it yet, it didn’t make my list.

[@bradleylillibridge1200]

@@TrailRecon just keep in mind the crossings if the water flow is above 200cf then it will be a wild ride but under 200 you should be good

[@iVisual.sambonkowski]

Some of these trailers, should be “access only for 🐪 ”

[@Stuka87]

Good to see Slick Rock rated so high :)

[@TheDefenderSisu]

I would like to know if you think a stock new defender can run those trails ? Thanks

[@TrailRecon]

I wouldn’t try it!

[@TheDefenderSisu]

@@TrailRecon thank you I’ll have to look for something easier as I can’t modify my defender yet because of warranty.

[@fatguy9]

What happens if you break down in the middle of a trail? Is there a company in socal for recovery?

[@TrailRecon]

That’s why you never do a difficult trail without a buddy and always carry recovery gear.

[@wesbarcus3761]

The Rubicon for the experience, but I like Dusy Ershim for the 33 miles of solitude and fishing. Way too many challenges for a 10 list. Too many you have to leave off.

[@scottymac5174]

dusy ershim trail.

[@stevensoutdoors]

Spelling note for your captions - there is no "a" in "Pollock Pines."

[@TrailRecon]

Spelling is not my super power! 😂

[@brentking4538]

Brad, what is the brand of the oven your wife uses while camping? I don't see it on your website?

[@TrailRecon]

It’s an Omnia stovetop oven. We don’t carry it in the store right now, but that could change.

[@scrappyjackalope9558]

When are you planning Fordyce? Let me know when you go :)

[@TrailRecon]

No current plans but it’s on my bucket list!

[@scrappyjackalope9558]

@@TrailRecon it is a awesome trail. Just look at the water forecast through kflows before you go. Or do during sierra trek. Trail is harder than rubicon by a fair bit now a days..

[@deantiago3]

That was a okay list but your missing a lot of fun trails. Dusy Ershim Coyote Lake Mirror Lake Swamp Lake Fordyce creek. Iam mean I get you live down south but you need to wheel the Red Mountain trails beautiful lakes challenging trails

[@TrailRecon]

These are all trails that I’ve done and can speak to. There are plenty of trails on my bucket list and they may make an updated list in the future.

[@notNaB2024]

So....only jeeps can do these trails? That's what I am getting from this.

[@TrailRecon]

That’s not far all what I’m saying because there a plenty of great off-road capable vehicles in addition to Jeeps. If you read the video description, I was pretty clear I wasn’t being Jeep specific. And if you watched the video, you would’ve noticed I drove my Bronco in one of them. So no, not only Jeeps can do these trails but Jeeps are what I personally drive most of the time.

[@GATORADDAM]

Very cool. But it's ... it's..... it's California!

[@TrailRecon]

California definitely has its challenges but lack of off-road trails and public lands isn’t one of them.

[@matth4069]

@@TrailRecon only $140+ for a tank of fuel

[@matthewhatton3637]

No matter how tempting these trails are I still refuse to go to California.

[@OrbPonderer]

Grow up

[@TrailRecon]

California definitely has its share of challenges but it’s a beautiful scenic state with lots of off-road trails and public lands.

[@matth4069]

@@OrbPonderer touch grass. Dudes right

[@nickjury4215]

Very pretty... but I hope to never go to that state.

[@amolinari9]

This vid made the FL trails look boring AF lol

[@TrailRecon]

😂 Sorry!

[@amolinari9]

@@TrailRecon not your fault I just have to travel to offroad!