FR5N95 5N95

FR5N95 connects Beardsley Reservoir Road (5N02) near Strawberry to Stanislaus Forest Route 52 (5N14) inside the Tuolumne State Game Refuge. Grade is moderate to steep with good, graveled road surface on the east side of the canyon, changing to rough 4x4 trail on the west side of the canyon. At it's low point, the road crosses the Middle Fork Stanislaus River on a long bridge.

Road conditions are very good descending from 5N02 to the river, owing to the presence of the Donnell Powerhouse and Penstock on that side of the river. West of the river, the road climbs through many granite domes and outcrops, over rough road surface with slabs and embedded boulders. There is much loose rock in this section.

There are excellent views of the surrounding canyon from the rougher western part. Though the road surface is difficult, the riding is continuously interesting and the surrounding scenery distracts from the effort.

Access Info

NOTE: A small segment of the east part of this road is currently contained in the trail Forest Route (5N06).

Disclaimer

WARNING: The portion of this road west of the Stanislaus River is a difficult 4x4 trail requiring high clearance. Loose rock creates hazardous conditions in many areas, creating situations where a stopped vehicle could slide sideways off a cliff.