Jeep Badge of Honor Trails California

The Rubicon Trail is the most iconic off-roading trail in North America and one of the most iconic in the world. In the 1800s, it was a stagecoach road that connected Georgetown, California, to Lake Tahoe, Nevada. High in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Rubicon Trail is home to steep rock formations, narrow passes, water crossings, and a diverse range of other terrain. Being subject to extreme weather and near constant traffic creates an ever-changing landscape, creating new challenges even for repeat visitors. On top of the extremely challenging terrain, the Rubicon Trail offers breathtaking views along the way with entire hillsides of white granite, towering pines, and crystal clear streams. The trip through the Rubicon Trail varies in time from six hours to two days – depending on traffic, conditions, and weather. Therefore, it is critical to be prepared.

Gold Mountain Trail, located in the San Bernardino National Forest, is a rock-crawling trail that crests over 8,000 feet above sea level. Well-known by California’s off-road enthusiasts, Gold Mountain Trail features a rock garden, two waterfalls, and several hard corners to test the capability of both the driver and their Jeep. The trail was established in the 1860s during the Big Bear Gold Rush to make way for mining operations. Today, the challenges that it presents bring people to this historic Southern California trail. On the other side of the trail, you’ll find yourself in the historic Holcomb Valley. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a scenic wonderland featuring views of Big Bear Lake, San Gorgonio Mountain, and a busy mountain village below you. The Gold Mountain Trail can be completed in a day. However, there are also campgrounds where you can spend the night if you choose. There is another Badge of Honor Trail nearby named Holcomb Creek. Also found in the San Bernardino National Forest, this trail features extensive rock gardens with car-sized boulders. True to its name, this trail also features numerous water crossings.

While the Rubicon Trail held this title for decades, there’s a new front-runner. If you’re an experienced off-roader not afraid of a little damage to your Jeep, California’s newest off-roading trail is also the hardest. Its name is the Dusy-Ershim Trail. A grueling mix of overlanding and rock crawling, the Dusy-Ershim Trail has garnered a reputation for being 3-6 times harder than the daunting Rubicon Trail. If you choose to take on this trail, you’re rewarded with unforgettable panoramic views. But be warned, even the most battle-tested, rugged Jeeps can come out the other side with some battle wounds. It’s been said that body damage sustained on Dusy-Ershim is simply a rite of passage. If you’re up for the challenge, the Dusy-Ershim Trail is a 3-5 day odyssey that will push not only your vehicle but your driving skills to the limit as well.

John Bull is a must-visit for off-road enthusiasts everywhere! Legendary in the off-road community, off-roaders often use John Bull as a stepping stone for the Rubicon Trail and Dusy-Ershim. While it is a precursor to these trails, it is definitely not one to take lightly. It still demands a modified Jeep, sharp driving skills, and expert experience, as it features narrow passes through trees and large boulders over 36 inches around, among other challenging obstacles designed to push your vehicle to its breaking point.

Looking to earn a Jeep Badge of Honor in California? Then make Turlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram your first stop! Our service center is standing by ready to ensure that your vehicle is up to the challenge with genuine Mopar parts and accessories along with Jeep Performance Parts and the skills, tools, and knowledge to install them properly. If you’re looking to begin your off-roading journey, you can find an array of off-roading models like Wrangler Rubicon, Gladiator Rubicon and Mojave, and the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe. Contact us to schedule an appointment for service or a test drive using the contact form below this page. We look forward to hearing from you soon!