The Best 4X4 Trails in California for Drivers of All Skill Levels

There’s nothing better than exploring the rolling hills of California in a 4X4 with the sun beating down on you. With so many routes to choose from, you’ll have no issue finding a cool off-road trails to cruise around and have a wild adventure, regardless of whether you’re a beginner or an experienced driver. Here are some of the best off-road 4X4 trails in California.

  1. Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

Offering visitors two areas to choose from, Hollister Hills is ideal for both experienced drivers and beginners. The Upper Ranch area is mostly used for Jeep and motorcycle events while the Lower Ranch area is more for motorcycles and ATVs – the whole area spans 24 miles in total. The former is open from 8am until sunset, while the latter is open from sunrise until sunset.

In addition to the Upper and Lower Ranch areas, there’s also a mini bike track and additional facilities including a lovely little picnic area where you can take a break and enjoy the outdoors.

  1. San Gabriel Canyon OHV

San Gabriel may be one of the smaller tracks in California, only 160 acres large, however, it’s also one of the most fun. Boasting river crossings and plenty of sand, mud and rock, this trail is sure to be a good time. There’s a small fee of $8 per vehicle and $5 for any additional vehicles in the party, but it’s totally worth it. In addition to the awesome trail, San Gabriel Canyon offers exceptional views and truly shows off California’s natural beauty.

San Gabriel Canyon OHV

  1. Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

Boasting a plethora of different trails as well as a training park, Ocotillo Wells is heaven for anybody who’s into off-road driving. A few of the most popular trails include Pumpkin Patch and the Goat Trail.

If you’re an amateur or you’d simply like to take a test drive before hitting the serious trails, go have some fun at the training park. There are 22 different obstacles, all coloured differently, across a 30 acres area.

Like different wagering sizes in MasterCard pokies, due to its different options on offer for both serious drivers and amateurs, Ocotillo Wells is a great option for visitors of all skill levels.

  1. Cleghorn Ridge OHV 2N47

Cleghorn Ridge has great 4X4 trails and it’s no secret either. Offering trails of varying degrees of difficulty, Cleghorn is ideal for just about anybody. If you want some real fun, try out the trails while it’s raining to add some mud to your adventure.

  1. Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area

Explore the hills of eastern Alameda when you visit Carnegie State. With 80 miles of rugged terrain and 1300 acres of awesome off-road terrain, this is a park you’re sure to enjoy. One of the best parts of Carnegie State – other than its canyons, steep hills and rocky terrain – is that it’ll be different every time you go due to the weather. Visit just after rainfall if you’d like a real challenge.