SoCal Miller Trail: Up or down?

[e9999]

Seems like everytime I see somebody on Miller they are going up. Is there some up-only rule, or is it just that it's easier?

It would be nice to be able to go down from Dutchman Campground to Piru Creek and then back up, but it could get interesting if trucks would be meeting in opposite directions in the harder section. I don't recall there being many wide spots.

So, down OK too in principle or a big No-no?

 

[silvercruiser]

Either way is technically acceptable. However, most go up. If you plan on going down do it on the weekdays when it is less crowded. Last Fall a group of 3 was heading down on a busy Sunday and caused a bit of chaos for all the groups heading up.

 

[wantatlc]

can someone provide more details on where this trail is located and some details on difficulty level?

 

[rmirandayopo]

I already post the pictures link in other thread few days ago...can't find it...it's easier to share it again...
http://www.yopo4x4.com/index.php?mod=gally&id=23&eid=93

I also have the GPS data from a Garmin 176c saved at home...hit me if you need it...

 

[e9999]

can someone provide more details on where this trail is located and some details on difficulty level?

the NFS has a great map of the area: Los Padres NF / Mount Pinos. Free.

Difficulty: rated black diamond by NFS. In 2004 December, when wet, 3 stock suspension 80s went up. All got their running boards bashed IIRC, including mine. That included one with street tires. Only that one had to be winched up a couple of times over a ledge, primarily cuz it was wet I think. Most difficult section was about 500 yds of dirt and rocky narrow trail with isolated rocks typically 1 ft high, and couple of ledges twice that much. One pretty tight spot. Should be possible to do in a stock 80 with good spotting and minor RB damage. Could get some serious sheet metal damage too, but not that likely if careful. Should be dry now so easier, but some of the ruts may be a tad deeper, don't know. It's not the Rubicon but it's not a fire road either. There are a couple of places where you'd really need a spotter if you are not very lifted I think.

 

[calamaridog]

Miller is fun. I think it was already said that most go up. It would suck to be the people going the wrong way on a weekend.

We should put together a Miller run in the Fall...

Sliders would be a good idea...

 

[PKP80]

can someone provide more details on where this trail is located and some details on difficulty level?

I did miller Heep in a stock rig, open diffs, running boards, and fenders NO problem. Just do it I'll try and join in on the fun.

Sam

 

[lacruiser]

been up and down, both are fun.

Trail crew is doing a night run up miller this coming saturday night. I'm aiming to go.

http://www.thetrailcrew.com/runs.htm