Cleghorn Ridge Trail
San Bernardino Mountains ridge runner to desert views
Cleghorn Ridge Trail follows the spine of the San Bernardino Mountains for 23 miles, offering views that stretch from the Mojave Desert floor to the Pacific Coast on clear days. The trail starts near Silverwood Lake and winds through mixed pine and oak forests, crossing several technical sections including the notorious Cleghorn Pass where loose rock and off-camber situations separate capable drivers from weekend warriors. Most of the route follows old logging roads dating back to the early 1900s, but don’t expect easy going — elevation changes and weather can turn this scenic drive into a survival exercise.
Moderate difficulty with some technical sections requiring good ground clearance and 4WD capability. Trail conditions vary dramatically with season; what’s passable in summer becomes impassable with snow and mud in winter. Best tackled May through October when the high country is accessible. No permits required, but bring recovery gear and extra fuel since gas stations are sparse once you leave the main highways. What you earn is genuine backcountry solitude just an hour from Los Angeles, plus camping opportunities that few people know exist.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 23 mi / 37 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5800 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Crestline, California |
| Land manager | San Bernardino National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma handle Cleghorn Ridge Trail?
Yes, any stock 4WD with high clearance can run this trail. The dirt surface and moderate rating make it accessible for most 4x4s without modifications.
Is Cleghorn Ridge Trail open in winter?
Best to avoid winter months due to snow at higher elevations around 5,800 feet. May through October is the reliable season for safe passage.
Do I need permits for Cleghorn Ridge Trail?
No special permits required since it runs through San Bernardino National Forest public lands. Standard forest service camping rules apply for dispersed sites.
What's the hardest part of Cleghorn Ridge Trail?
The steeper rocky sections climbing to max elevation can be bumpy and require careful line choice. Nothing too technical, just typical moderate 4x4 terrain.
How's cell service on Cleghorn Ridge?
Spotty at best throughout most of the 23-mile route. Don't count on reliable signal for emergency communication or navigation updates.