Overall, the days run would clock in at about 4 hours, including a few breaks...including lunch. Total mileage is approximately 30 miles.
After airing down, we started the well-graded trail, which very gradually ascends the mountain side, passing by a few private camps along the way.
Radford Truck trail was in fairly good condition this day; seems as if it were recently graded.
From the intersection of Radford Truck trail and Skyline Drive, turning west (left) onto Skyline Drive will lead to Clark's Summit (for a short hike) and eventually to the intersection for Clarks Grade.
The sign for Lodgepole Pine; head left.
Clarks Grade is slightly more rough than Radford Truck Trail. Though overall, easily traversed in a four-wheel drive vehicle with high ground clearance. Possible for ambitious Subaru drivers.
Here there are more incredible views. Though, keep your eyes on the trail while moving as this shelf-road could be unforgiving as many sections are sheer drop offs. If you don't like heights, this may not be for you.
Overall, our journey amounted to nearly 30 miles and took about four hours to complete. After airing up, the trail exits onto Seven Oaks Road, connects to Glass Road, and then to Highway 38, a few miles from the original trailhead. If you are looking for a fun and easy trail that covers a lot of miles in one day, this is a good choice. We will plan a return trip after winter arrives and there is snow on the ground. |