4x4TrailMaps - Pardoe Trail

Pardoe Trail, also know as Squaw Ridge Trail, is very fun to drive as it twist and turns along Squaw Ridge. From Bear River Reservoir to the 9,260' peak of Squaw Ridge this trail offers seemingly endless views from nearly every direction. There may be snow pack to break through as late as July and snow fall on the peak as early as October.

While a majority of the trail can be run in two wheel drive there are two fun rock gardens with the upper rock garden being the most challenging of the two. Most stock high clearance vehicles with proper body protection will not have many issues, although a mild lift is recommended for the upper section of the trail past Plasse Trading Post. Allow a full day to enjoy this trail.

Trailhead - The trail begins along the Southeastern section of Bear River Reservoir. Exit Highway 88 onto Bear River Road and cross the dam following the south end of the lake up the hillside. The only marker for the trail is the U.S. Forest Service road marker for 8N03.

Road to Pardoe Camp - As you start up the ridge side you will come across a road junction to the right, this is the road to Pardoe Campground. While camping is permitted along the trail there are several campgrounds along Bear River Reservoir and Silver Lake. A section of the trail follows a corridor through Mokelumne Wilderness land and a permit is required to camp along this section.

Lower Rock Garden - As the lower rock garden begins the trail seems to disappear at times over the granite slabs and rocks. This is the some of the most difficult terrain of the trail. Although most stock four wheel drive vehicles can make the trip, some may require more work than others. Remember when stacking rocks to get over obstacles put them back after you have passed through.

Plasse Trading Post - Part of the trail follows the historic Emigrant Trail and trail markers share some insight to the history of this location. A marker depicts a journal log from a traveler who met a trader here in 1852. This spot also marks an easy route, road 17E19, back to Highway 88 and the most difficult section of the trail is just beyond here.

Route to Highway 88 - This waypoint marks the crossroads between Squaw Ridge and a popular route back to Highway 88 or to Mud Lake.

Upper Rock Garden - Although this is the most difficult section of the trail it can be easily navigated with a slightly modified vehicle. Early snow fall made it difficult for us to find the trail on several sections and we had to walk ahead to scout the trail. Keep an eye out for metal markers nailed to the trees.

Squaw Ridge Peak - A post with a marker quoting a journal log from a Silas Newcomb citing his nights stay about one mile from the ridge. Squaw Ridge offers some incredible views and marks the end of Pardoe Jeep Trail. From Squaw Ridge a hiking path winds to the North over Covered Wagon Peak and Service Road 17E21 will take you Northwest to the North shore of Silver Lake.

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