Packsaddle Trail, near Lake Pillsbury in the southwest part of the Mendocino National Forest in Northern California, starts and ends at intersections with M1 - Elk Mountain Road, and thus presents an opportunity to bypass a good portion of the heavily washboarded Elk Mountain Road. It is a quieter, smoother, more peaceful route with one exceptional lookout spot, and spends much of its time winding through deep Ponderosa Pine forest. The lookout spot presents a fine 180 degree view towards the east, with seemingly endless rolling, forested hills disappearing forever into the distance. Hull Mountain is prominent to the northeast.
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From Upper Lake, CA: Take M1 - Elk Mountain Road to Waypoint 12, "1825 - Packsaddle Trail Intersection".
From Lake Pillsbury: Follow M1 - Elk Mountain Road in reverse to get to the same Waypoint.
The Packsaddle trail is definitely your better option than M1 to Lake Pillsbury!
Its a little more challenging and less washboard than the M1 route. Highly recommend taking that route. Though still very easy, it might give a a good feel for your newly acquired 4x4. No problems with a stock vehicle here!
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