Roadrunner Rut

Roadrunner Rut is near the western edge of the San Bernardino National Forest and drives through the recently designated Sand to Snow National Monument. The trail escorts you in and amongst a spectacular desert landscape of massive boulder piles arranged in such a way that it seems more like intentional art than the result of natural erosion.  The trail intersects a nest of other BLM trails to explore, and New Dixie Mine Road at its north end provides the opportunity to continue the adventure up into the San Bernardino National Forest.

Tucked in amongst these massive boulders, you will find excellent sheltered dispersed campsites. Most sites have room for several vehicles. One of the best sites is found on a turnout about 2.6 miles from the south end of the trail. This quiet, secluded site hugs a massive boulder and is watched over by a jigsaw puzzle of balancing boulders. The area is flat with space for two or three vehicles.

Roadrunner Rut provides both a navigation and driving challenge. There are occasional BLM trail markers, but many unmarked intersecting trails can easily be taken.  A GPS using the provided .gpx is the best way to stay on track. After an easy start over the first 2 miles, the trail narrows and follows a tight, twisting path over and around large 18-inch boulders.  Near the north end of the trail, there is a steep hill reaching a 25-degree decline with a tight 90-degree turn. Four-low will be required to climb this hill, but it also aids in the descent. A four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicle driven by an experienced off-roader is necessary to safely travel this trail