Trabuco Canyon - AKA Holy Jim Canyon

3.1/5 (31 reviews)
Trabuco Canyon, California (Orange County)
Last Updated: 05/17/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Desert
Mud
Rock
Sand
Please note, a majority of the area has been closed due to the Holy Fire... Holy Jim Canyon (AKA Trabuco Canyon Road) is among the most popular off-road trails in all of Southern California. With thousands of visitors a day, this is a great place to get out, have some fun, do a little socializing, and partake in people watching all at the same time. Less than 20 minutes from anywhere in Orange County California, there is no doubt why so many 4x4 enthusiasts can say they have driven this path into Orange County's unknown forest. While Holy Jim is a very mellow off-road trail, there are plenty of challenging options in the area from rock crawling, hill climbs, off-camber areas, a creek to play in, and lots of hiking that lead to some of the tallest waterfalls in the Southern California. If you are in the area, and are looking for a place that is suitable for every type and skill level of off-roader, then check out Holy Jim Canyon aka Trabuco Canyon.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

The mild dirt road that any vehicle can do in good weather. 4WD may be required in wet weather. Plenty of side options are available for those looking to test their skills. Near half the trail has been closed and will remain closed due to the holy fire. The likely opening of the trail will be no earlier than 2020.
A majority of the area has been blocked off after the Holy Fire

Trail Reviews

3.1/5 (31)
Official Crew
120550
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 05/17/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Rumors are the gate is open. See the post below.
Official Crew
14300
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 05/17/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

After quite a few years the gate at waypoint 7 is now open. At waypoint 8 the trail forks and both roads have signs posted saying no motorized vehicles. The trail is in very good condition but many of the offshoots are still blocked.
Official Crew
120550
Partially Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 04/13/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

The gate is still closed half way up the trail.
Official Crew
111450
Temporary Closure
Visited: 04/13/2023

This road is temporarily closed due to the moisture. You can read more about the closures here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/cleveland/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb5340229&width=full
Partially Open
Rated 1/5
Visited: 01/21/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Easier

The trail was closed about 1.5 miles up the road, a local was telling us Santiago truck trail is open but closed due to wash out. Very little technical offshoots open, and the pot holes are endless. If you want to drive through the mud, it’s great, but that is all is has for off-roading. Great for stopping, walking around, and hanging by the water.

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