Oil Well Road Trail #68

While specific parking areas for the "#68" designation are not widely published, the Oil Well Road Trail is generally associated with the Fort Ord National Monument. Access points within the monument typically offer parking. It's advisable to check the official NPS website for the Fort Ord National Monument for detailed trailhead and parking information before your visit.

Yes, the trail is multi-use and dog-friendly. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

The Oil Well Road Trail is generally accessible year-round. However, for the most pleasant experience, consider visiting in spring to see blooming wildflowers like lupine and poppies, or in drier seasons to avoid mud. Winter rides might involve wet crossings of seasonal creeks, and the last mile can be particularly muddy after rain.

As the trail is located within the Custer Gallatin National Forest, there are generally no specific permits required for day-use mountain biking. However, it's always a good idea to check the Custer Gallatin National Forest website for any current regulations or fee changes, especially if you plan on camping or other activities.

When mountain biking in Custer Gallatin National Forest, always stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Yield to hikers and equestrians, and be mindful of trail conditions. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive regulations, including any specific rules for wilderness areas or seasonal closures, please consult the official Custer Gallatin National Forest website.

The trail is generally considered to be of easy to intermediate difficulty. It's primarily a hard-packed gravel or narrow dirt road, making it suitable for gravel bikes as well. While some sections might be more challenging, especially if muddy, it's often described as manageable for those with some mountain biking experience, and even beginners might find it accessible.

You can expect primarily a dirt/gravel road surface. It's described as hard-packed gravel and a narrow non-motorized dirt road. While generally well-maintained, be prepared for potential mud puddles, especially after rain, which can make the last mile particularly slippery.

Yes, the Oil Well Road Trail serves as a valuable connector. It links to other trails like Three Sisters Road, Trail 46, and Trail 41 (Goat Trail). This allows riders to create longer loops, such as a 5.5-mile loop with Guidotti Road, Skyline Road, and Toro Creek Road, or incorporate it into loops with Engineer Canyon Road. The route also passes through sections of the official trails FS 68 and FS 203.

The trail offers natural and open scenery, traversing majestic grasslands that showcase the area's native landscape. You can enjoy views of Carmel Valley over the skyline and, after sufficient rain, blooming wildflowers like lupine and poppies. There is a specific highlight known as the View along ridge which offers scenic vistas.

Since this is a less popular trail, you can often enjoy a quieter ride. If you're looking to avoid mud, plan your trip during a dry spell, as the trail, particularly the last mile, can get quite muddy and slippery after rain. It's also a great option for combining with other trails in the Fort Ord National Monument to create custom loops.

No, the trail is multi-use. It is open to hiking, jogging, cycling (including gravel bikes), and horse riding, making it a versatile option for various outdoor activities.