Top 10 places to go offroading with a prerunner truck in Southern California

October 22, 2024

Southern California is an off-roading paradise with a diverse range of terrains, from sandy dunes to rocky mountains. If you have a prerunner truck, there are plenty of trails and parks that will offer you both excitement and challenge. Here are some top spots in Southern California to take your prerunner:

1. Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA)

Ocotillo Wells SVRA, located east of San Diego in Southern California, is a vast playground for off-road enthusiasts, offering over 85,000 acres of desert terrain. Known for its wide variety of trails and open desert areas, Ocotillo Wells has something for everyone, from beginner drivers to seasoned off-roaders. The terrain is incredibly diverse, with large flat areas perfect for high-speed runs, sandy washes, and rocky outcroppings that challenge even the most skilled drivers. The park’s wide-open spaces make it ideal for prerunners, where you can really open up the throttle and feel the suspension work as you glide over whoops and dips.

One of the highlights of Ocotillo Wells is Shell Reef, a well-known area featuring a large ancient marine fossil bed, with ridges that off-roaders love to climb and descend. The ridged hills provide a natural challenge, where drivers can test the articulation and capabilities of their prerunners. Another popular spot is Devil’s Slide, a steep hill made of soft sand that offers a thrilling climb for off-road vehicles. The vertical challenge of Devil’s Slide is not for the faint of heart, and it’s a favorite among those seeking a little adrenaline rush while navigating through loose terrain.

In addition to these exciting obstacles, Ocotillo Wells is home to several unique points of interest. The Pumpkin Patch, for instance, is a fascinating geological feature where large, naturally occurring spherical boulders litter the landscape. Another must-see is Blowsand Hill, a massive sand dune perfect for climbing and catching some air at the top. These spots, combined with the park’s vast open areas, technical trails, and breathtaking desert views, make Ocotillo Wells SVRA a top destination for prerunner enthusiasts looking to explore Southern California’s rugged desert terrain.

2. Glamis Sand Dunes (Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area)

Glamis, officially known as the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, is arguably one of the most iconic off-roading destinations in the U.S. Located in the southeastern part of California, near the Arizona border, Glamis spans 40 miles of towering sand dunes, some reaching heights of 300 feet. The area is a haven for off-roaders, especially during the cooler months when thousands of enthusiasts flock to the dunes for weekends of high-adrenaline fun. For prerunners, the wide-open terrain offers endless opportunities to test the limits of speed and suspension, allowing vehicles to glide effortlessly over the massive dunes.

One of the most famous landmarks in Glamis is Oldsmobile Hill, a towering sand dune that draws a crowd of spectators and thrill-seekers. The steep incline makes it a challenge for even the most powerful prerunners, and drivers line up to test their vehicles’ climbing abilities. It’s a spot where speed, torque, and skill come together, and it’s not uncommon to see drivers catching air as they launch over the crest. Another notable area is China Wall, a long dune ridge that runs parallel to Oldsmobile Hill, offering a more technical challenge with steep drops and sharp ridges that require precise control and navigation.

In addition to these signature spots, the Glamis Sand Dunes are perfect for exploring remote and less-trafficked areas like The Buttercup Valley and Gecko Road, where the dunes become even more dramatic and the terrain more isolated. These areas allow prerunner drivers to push their vehicles to the limit, carving through steep inclines and massive descents, all while enjoying the breathtaking desert views. Whether you’re blasting across the open dunes or navigating the ridges and valleys, Glamis is an essential destination for any off-roading enthusiast.

3. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park, is a breathtaking and diverse landscape that offers a different kind of off-roading experience compared to the wide-open dunes of Glamis or the technical terrain of Ocotillo Wells. Located about two hours east of San Diego, this expansive desert park spans over 600,000 acres, providing plenty of room for exploration. The park is well-known for its vast network of dirt roads and trails that wind through scenic desert vistas, canyons, and washes. While the terrain here is generally less extreme than in other popular off-roading destinations, Anza-Borrego’s beauty and variety of trails make it an appealing destination for prerunners looking for adventure.

One of the highlights of Anza-Borrego is the Borrego Badlands, a network of rugged trails and eroded landscapes that give off a distinctly otherworldly feel. The badlands feature steep cliffs, narrow canyons, and sandy washes that challenge drivers with varying levels of difficulty. Trails like Coyote Canyon offer a mix of open, high-speed sections and tight, technical turns that are perfect for testing the handling of a prerunner. The trail also leads to natural wonders such as the year-round creek at First Crossing, providing a unique and scenic spot in the middle of the desert.

Another point of interest in Anza-Borrego is Fonts Point, known for its panoramic views of the Borrego Badlands. Prerunners can make the climb to this lookout point via a sandy four-wheel-drive road, which is a relatively easy yet rewarding drive. Once at the top, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the entire desert landscape, making it a favorite stop for off-roaders who want to pause and take in the natural beauty. While the park may not offer the high-adrenaline challenges of places like Johnson Valley or Glamis, its combination of scenic beauty, wide-ranging trails, and points of interest make it a must-visit for any off-road enthusiast.

4. Cleghorn Ridge Trail

Cleghorn Ridge Trail, located near Silverwood Lake and the San Bernardino National Forest, is a popular off-roading destination that offers a mix of terrain for both beginner and experienced prerunner drivers. This trail stretches over 14 miles and provides an exciting combination of wide-open ridgelines, rocky sections, and technical off-road challenges. What makes Cleghorn Ridge stand out is the variety of off-shoots and alternate paths along the trail, offering multiple options for drivers depending on their experience level and vehicle capabilities.

One of the unique features of Cleghorn Ridge is its mix of both easy and difficult sections, allowing drivers to choose their adventure. Along the main trail, there are bypass routes for those looking for a more leisurely drive, but there are also challenging sections that feature steep inclines, loose rocks, and tight turns, making it a great spot to test out the suspension and handling of your prerunner. Pilot Rock is a popular waypoint along the trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a great spot for a break or to take in the scenery.

Cleghorn Ridge Trail is also known for its impressive elevation changes, giving drivers panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the Mojave Desert. The trail’s higher elevation sections offer spectacular vistas, especially near the top, where you can see for miles across Southern California. The ridge itself provides thrilling opportunities for speed and control, as prerunners navigate the combination of loose dirt, rocky terrain, and sudden drops. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive or a more challenging off-road experience, Cleghorn Ridge Trail has something for every prerunner enthusiast.

5. Big Bear Lake Area

The Big Bear Lake area, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, is a top off-roading destination that offers a mix of trails for all levels of off-road enthusiasts. With its stunning alpine setting and a variety of terrain, Big Bear provides an excellent environment for prerunners looking for adventure. The area is known for its diverse trails, ranging from scenic dirt roads to challenging rock-crawling routes. The elevation and mountain views make this location unique, offering off-roaders a different kind of experience compared to the desert landscapes typical of Southern California.

Popular trails in the Big Bear area include Gold Mountain, John Bull, and Holcomb Valley. Gold Mountain is a well-known route for off-roaders seeking a challenging drive, featuring steep climbs and rocky sections that are perfect for testing a prerunner’s suspension and clearance. John Bull is one of the most difficult and revered trails in Southern California, with large rocks, tight squeezes, and technical obstacles that push drivers and their vehicles to the limit. Although more suited for rock crawlers, experienced prerunners can still enjoy parts of the trail for a test of skill and endurance.

For those looking for a less intense experience, the Holcomb Valley trail offers a scenic but still engaging ride through the historic valley. Once a mining area, Holcomb Valley now provides off-roaders with a beautiful backdrop of forests and meadows, mixed with easier dirt roads that are great for cruising in a prerunner. With its variety of trails, from technical to scenic, the Big Bear Lake area offers something for every off-roading enthusiast, making it a must-visit for those wanting to experience off-roading in a mountain setting.

6. Hungry Valley SVRA

Located in Gorman, just north of Los Angeles, Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) is a prime destination for off-roaders and prerunner enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 19,000 acres, Hungry Valley is the second-largest off-highway vehicle park in California, offering a wide range of terrains and trails suitable for all skill levels. From vast open areas perfect for high-speed runs to technical trails with challenging obstacles, Hungry Valley provides plenty of opportunities for testing your prerunner’s capabilities in various conditions.

One of the highlights of Hungry Valley is the Ridge Route trail, a scenic drive that offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail features a combination of wide dirt paths and narrower sections with rocks and steep inclines, providing the perfect environment for a thrilling off-road adventure. For those looking for a more technical challenge, the 3.5-mile Obstacle Course located within the park offers plenty of opportunities to test suspension, ground clearance, and driving skill, with steep climbs, tight turns, and rock obstacles.

Hungry Valley is also home to the Aliklik and Tejon Trails, which offer more rugged terrain for experienced off-roaders. These trails wind through rocky hills and tight canyons, providing a more secluded and technical driving experience. With its diverse mix of trails, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level, Hungry Valley SVRA is a top choice for prerunners looking to experience varied terrain without venturing too far from Southern California’s urban centers. The park’s proximity to Los Angeles makes it an accessible yet challenging destination for a day of off-road fun.

7. Rowher Flat OHV Area

Located just north of Los Angeles near the town of Santa Clarita, Rowher Flat OHV Area is a popular spot for off-roaders, including prerunner enthusiasts. Covering about 10,000 acres, this off-highway vehicle area features a network of trails that wind through rugged hills, ridges, and valleys, offering a variety of terrain to suit all experience levels. The park is especially known for its steep climbs and ridgelines, making it an excellent place to test the power and suspension of a prerunner while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the standout features of Rowher Flat is its challenging trails that take you to higher elevations, offering not only a thrilling off-road experience but also breathtaking vistas. The Rowher Trail, for instance, is a steep and technical climb that leads to the top of Rowher Ridge, rewarding drivers with sweeping views of the Santa Clarita Valley. The trail is well-suited for prerunners looking to push their limits, with sharp turns, loose terrain, and rocky sections that demand both skill and control.

For those looking for a mix of open areas and more technical trails, Rowher Flat offers several routes that cater to various driving styles. The Sierra Pelona Mountains surrounding the area provide a picturesque backdrop, adding to the appeal of the experience. With trails like Lookout Trail and Fall Canyon, you can experience the full range of off-road conditions, from wide dirt paths to tight, twisty trails that will test your vehicle’s handling and performance. Whether you’re aiming for high-speed runs or technical maneuvers, Rowher Flat is a versatile off-roading destination perfect for a day of desert exploration.

8. Johnson Valley OHV Area

Johnson Valley OHV Area is a legendary off-roading destination, known for its rugged terrain and as the home of the famous King of the Hammers race. Located in the Mojave Desert, Johnson Valley covers over 96,000 acres, offering a diverse mix of terrain, from expansive dry lake beds ideal for high-speed runs to rocky mountain trails that challenge even the most experienced off-roaders. For prerunner enthusiasts, Johnson Valley’s vast open spaces provide the perfect playground for testing speed and suspension, while the more technical trails offer a chance to push vehicles to their limits.

One of the most iconic features of Johnson Valley is Hammertown, the temporary city built every year during the King of the Hammers race. Although Hammertown only comes alive during the event, the trails used in the race, such as Backdoor, Chocolate Thunder, and Jackhammer, remain available year-round for off-roaders looking to experience the same brutal conditions as the competitors. These trails are known for their rocky obstacles, steep climbs, and intense technical challenges, making them more suited for rock crawlers, but prerunners can enjoy some of the less extreme sections and open areas.

For high-speed runs, the Means Dry Lake Bed offers miles of flat, hard-packed desert terrain where prerunners can really open up the throttle. This vast, open area is ideal for testing a vehicle’s top speed and handling, and it’s a popular spot for off-road enthusiasts looking for a bit of high-adrenaline fun. The combination of wide-open desert, rocky mountains, and challenging technical sections makes Johnson Valley a top destination for those looking for a varied and thrilling off-road experience. Whether you’re there for high-speed fun or technical trail challenges, Johnson Valley offers something for every off-roading enthusiast.

9. El Mirage Dry Lake Bed

El Mirage Dry Lake Bed is a vast expanse of flat, hard-packed desert located in the Mojave Desert, about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. This unique off-roading destination is well-known for its perfectly smooth, dry lake bed, which provides an ideal surface for high-speed runs. Prerunner enthusiasts flock to El Mirage for the chance to really test the top-end speed and handling of their vehicles in a safe and controlled environment. The wide, open space allows for uninhibited acceleration, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to push their prerunners to the limit.

In addition to its speed-friendly flatlands, El Mirage offers surrounding trails that explore the Shadow Mountains and other nearby features. These trails are less technical than those found at places like Johnson Valley or Rowher Flat, but they provide a fun opportunity for a change of pace after high-speed runs across the lake bed. The trails offer moderate elevation changes, sandy sections, and occasional rocky terrain that can help you hone your prerunner’s handling in less extreme conditions.

El Mirage is also a popular spot for land speed events and time trials due to its expansive, smooth surface, and the area has a long history of being used for these types of events. For off-roaders, the lake bed itself is the star attraction, providing miles of uninterrupted driving space. Whether you’re there to achieve top speed or explore the scenic desert trails, El Mirage Dry Lake Bed is a unique destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for prerunner drivers looking for high-speed thrills and wide-open desert adventures.

10. Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve, located in the southeastern corner of California, offers off-road enthusiasts a chance to explore one of the most scenic and less-trafficked desert areas in Southern California. Spanning over 1.6 million acres, the preserve features an impressive variety of landscapes, from sand dunes and volcanic formations to expansive desert valleys and rugged mountains. While it may not be as well-known as destinations like Glamis or Ocotillo Wells, the Mojave National Preserve provides prerunner drivers with a more secluded and scenic off-roading experience.

One of the standout features of the preserve is the Kelso Dunes, a massive area of sand dunes that rise up to 650 feet, offering a challenging but rewarding driving experience. Although not as steep or high-speed as the dunes at Glamis, the Kelso Dunes provide a unique opportunity to test your prerunner’s handling in soft sand while surrounded by some of the most stunning desert views in the region. The dunes also have a mysterious sound phenomenon called “singing sand,” which adds an extra layer of intrigue to your off-road adventure.

Another popular off-road route within the preserve is the Mojave Road, a historic trail that runs for about 140 miles from the Colorado River to Barstow. While not particularly challenging in terms of technical difficulty, the trail takes you through some of the most iconic desert landscapes in Southern California, including lava tubes, Joshua tree forests, and the picturesque dry lake beds. The route offers a mix of wide-open stretches and scenic vistas, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience both the natural beauty and history of the Mojave Desert.

For prerunner enthusiasts, the Mojave National Preserve is an excellent choice for a more peaceful, scenic off-road experience. With its combination of historic trails, towering sand dunes, and breathtaking desert landscapes, the preserve offers a unique off-roading adventure that stands apart from the more crowded and intense destinations in Southern California. Whether you’re cruising along the Mojave Road or navigating the Kelso Dunes, the preserve provides a memorable escape into the heart of the desert.

Remember, always practice safe off-roading. Know your vehicle’s capabilities, always tell someone where you’re going, and preferably don’t go alone. Respecting the environment by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash is essential to keep these areas open and pristine for future off-roaders.

Socal Prerunner Scene

The Southern California off-road scene is a vibrant and eclectic blend of enthusiasts, and the prerunner truck subculture stands out as one of its most recognizable facets. While the term “prerunner” was originally coined to describe vehicles used to pre-run, or scout, the courses of desert races without causing excessive wear on the actual race trucks, it has since evolved to define a specific breed of modified trucks built to tackle the challenging terrains of the Southwest.

Prerunners are often characterized by their long-travel suspension, wide stance, reinforced frames, and oversized tires. A quintessential sight is that of a prerunner truck, with its exaggerated fenders and robust off-road bumpers, soaring gracefully over the dunes of Glamis or blasting through the desert trails of Ocotillo Wells. Their construction is primarily focused on speed and durability over rough terrains rather than rock crawling or mudding.

The community that surrounds these trucks is just as dynamic as the vehicles themselves. Many enthusiasts gather at popular off-roading spots during weekends and holidays, forming impromptu campsites replete with campfires, barbecues, and, of course, the unmistakable roar of engines. These gatherings aren’t just about the thrill of the drive; they’re social events where friendships are forged, and off-roading tales, both real and exaggerated, are shared around the campfire.

In addition to these informal meet-ups, several organized events, such as the infamous Baja 1000 race, draw crowds from all over the country. For many, participating or even just spectating at these races is a rite of passage. The fusion of adrenaline, camaraderie, and the raw beauty of the Southern Californian desert makes the prerunner truck scene a unique and captivating subculture within the larger off-roading community. Whether you’re an off-road veteran or a newcomer, the sight of a prerunner truck catching air over a sand dune under the blazing California sun is an image hard to forget.

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