California Backroads > Road Conditions, Exploring, 4x4 Trails, SUV

Most of these back roads are located in National Forest or BLM land. Read all entrance signs & remember, "private roads" are most likely no entry. If you come to a closed gate, pass cautiously & make sure you close it behind you. Driving rules that apply to state highways also apply to these remote roads.

These roads range from: paved, partially paved to graded dirt, unmaintained dirt. These forest service roads may even require 4x4 in some of the more difficult areas: steep hills, eroded hillsides, bumpy stream washes.

Use Caution -
- on mountain dirt roads when snow appears light, there could be a foot of mud undeneath
- in winter desert washes, rivers with soft sand can be deep watery sinkholes
- soft sandy washes in the desert; keep your speed up 15-30 mph & keep moving;
  if you get stuck try an old blanket wedged under the tire for traction

Be aware of the Forest Service Signage & have a good map on hand. It is easy to get lost & you may end up driving for hours.

Maintained Roads -
- passenger cars
- pavement, gravel, dirt (or a combination of surfaces)
Non-Maintained Roads -
- minimal up keep, usually bumpy dirt
- not maintained for passenger cars
- be very aware of roads, expect fallen trees & rocks
- drive careful & slow (under 30 mph)
- stream crossings & washes are common

Closed Roads - closures are gated or signed. Off limits to motorized vehicles, but you may hike in. Complete wash-outs, revegetation, eroded hillsides, wildlife habitation & watershed protection are common reasons for road closures.

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