2.9 hr
Overview
Take this dirt doubletrack up and over the Crafton Hills as it accesses a number of trails in the area. The high point of this one is at the top of Zanja Peak (3,533') with terrific 360\u00b0 views. The climb can be tough as it is sustained for over four miles with only a brief downhill section after one mile. <br><br>From the summit, continue along the ridgeline as it bends to the right (southeast) towards Yucaipa Regional Park. Most visitors will use this doubletrack as part of the longer Hilltop College Loop.
Trail Stats
9.1 km
343 m
1044 m
717 m
—
Photos
The upper entrance to Thunderbird Trail (where it connects to Crafton Hills Ridge Trail)
The upper entrance to Thunderbird Trail (where it connects to Crafton Hills Ridge Trail)
Trail mile markers are spaced at 0.5-mile intervals.
Trail mile markers are spaced at 0.5-mile intervals.
Waiting at the bench.
Waiting at the bench.
This is my first time in this area and if I hadn't come up the Grape Ave Trail I wouldn't know where it links in... especially because of the extra vegetation and recent grading work. Hope this helps new people like me.
This is my first time in this area and if I hadn't come up the Grape Ave Trail I wouldn't know where it links in... especially because of the extra vegetation and recent grading work. Hope this helps new people like me.
Crafton Hills Ridge Trail near top of Thunderbird Trail
Crafton Hills Ridge Trail near top of Thunderbird Trail
The Thunderbird Trail twists and turns its way up Crafton Ridge.
The Thunderbird Trail twists and turns its way up Crafton Ridge.
5.5 miles from the trailhead. Either you loop back or continue forward to Crafton Ridge-Zanja Summit connector
5.5 miles from the trailhead. Either you loop back or continue forward to Crafton Ridge-Zanja Summit connector
Experience this view looking north toward Yucaipa Ridge and the northern end of Yucaipa from the Crafton Hills Ridge Trail.
Experience this view looking north toward Yucaipa Ridge and the northern end of Yucaipa from the Crafton Hills Ridge Trail.
Climbing.
Climbing.
Trail is plenty fine even for old school mountain bikes. This last week (July 19ish 2017) it was graded and for right now has a patchy mix of hardpack, small rocks, and loose dirt.
Trail is plenty fine even for old school mountain bikes. This last week (July 19ish 2017) it was graded and for right now has a patchy mix of hardpack, small rocks, and loose dirt.
View point
View point
This is what you get the first mile.
This is what you get the first mile.
A nice place to take a few minutes before the last uphill.
A nice place to take a few minutes before the last uphill.
Top of Three Hawks.
Top of Three Hawks.
Love this trail!
Love this trail!