6 Off-Road Trails Near Overland Expo SoCal 2025

If you're attending Overland Expo SoCal in Costa Mesa, why not take advantage of the incredible off-road trails nearby? Within just a short drive, you’ll find everything from scenic beginner-friendly routes to challenging trails that will put your rig to the test.

To help you plan your adventure, we’ve put together a list of six top-rated off-road trails—all within two hours of Costa Mesa—so you can experience the best of Southern California’s terrain while you're in town.

What Is Overland Expo?

Overland Expo is one of the largest overlanding events, bringing together off-road enthusiasts, gear brands, and experts for a weekend filled with training, gear demos, and community-building.

Each year we get four different events, PNW, West, MTN West, and East but this year the team at Overland Expo decided to add SoCal for the first ever Overland Expo event in California.

Whether you want to upgrade your rig, learn essential skills, or connect with fellow adventurers, this event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about off-roading and overlanding.

Essential Off-Roading Tips for Southern California Trails

Before heading out, keep these important tips in mind:

• Check Trail Conditions & Closures – Weather, wildfires, and land management updates can impact access. Always verify before you go. Check here for San Bernardino National Forest updates.
• Know the Permit & Fee Requirements – Some trails require day-use fees or permits, so plan ahead.
• Pack Smart for Off-Roading – Recovery gear, a first-aid kit, water, and offline maps are essential, even for easy trails.
• Follow Tread Lightly & Leave No Trace – Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect land regulations to keep these trails open.
• Review the Trail – Once you finish up the trail make sure to review it on Trails Offroad™!

Best Off-Road Trails Near Costa Mesa

Here are our six must-explore trails near Overland Expo SoCal:

7S02 Santa Rosa - Anza, CA

Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, this 15-mile trail offers a little bit of everything—scenic views, running springs, and plenty of campsites.

Regarding the terrain of the trail, you will find mostly decomposed granite, rocks, and ruts. It’s a relatively easy route suitable for high-clearance 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. However, keep in mind that this is a 4,000-foot climb, and rain or snow can make conditions more challenging.

For those looking to camp under the stars, there are Yellow Post sites along the trail where you can stay for up to 14 days.

1N09 - City Creek - Redlands, CA

Tucked away on the near Big Bear you’ll find 1N09 City Creek Road, a hidden gem in the area. This 22-mile trail is mostly well-maintained, making it a great choice for beginners looking for a scenic drive.

Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests, multiple creek crossings, and a few minor hill climbs. The biggest challenge? A short but steep hill climb that can be tackled with a running start in 2WD.

This route is a great alternative to the more crowded trails in Big Bear, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Note: This trail is currently closed due to fire damage in the area. 

1N33 - Meyers Canyon - Fontana, CA

Meyers Canyon is a scenic and beginner-friendly trail in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering one of the few routes that cross the full width of Lytle Creek.

The trail features gradual climbs, a small creek crossing, and mild ruts, making it a great option for high-clearance 2WD vehicles. While a section of the canyon is privatized as a shooting range, the route continues deeper into the forest, offering beautiful canyon views along the way.

With no major obstacles and a steady 10% incline, this is a perfect trail for those new to off-roading or looking for a relaxed scenic drive.

2N40 - Cloudland Truck Trail - Crestline, CA

Ideal for newer drivers, 2N40 Cloudland Truck Trail is a scenic and straightforward route in the San Bernardino National Forest.

With minimal obstacles, it’s a great introduction to off-roading. Along the way, you’ll get stunning views of the Inland Empire, stretching from the Banning Pass to Los Angeles.The main route is manageable for high-clearance 2WD vehicles, but an optional short hill climb requires 4-Lo.

The highlight? Marshall Peak, where paragliders and hang gliders take off, soaring thousands of feet above the valley floor. Just be mindful of vehicle traffic near the glider launch area!

3N06B Paiute Spur - Lytle Creek, CA

For those looking to get off the beaten path, 3N06B Paiute Spur offers a rugged, scenic escape into Lytle Creek’s backcountry.

This 2.5-mile trail climbs 1,000 feet through granite, rocks, and small boulders, making 4WD highly recommended. Along the way, you’ll find three designated Yellow Post campsites and plenty of dispersed camping opportunities.

Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, deer, and even mountain lions that call the area home.

3N06A Cold Water Canyon - Lytle Creek, CA

Another hidden gem in the Lytle Creek area, 3N06A Cold Water Canyon is a short but rewarding trail that branches off 3N06 Stockton Flats.

Known for its remote camping opportunities, the trail features three Yellow Post sites and access to some of the most secluded campsites in Southern California.

The 2-mile trail climbs 1,700 feet, with a mix of granite, small boulders, and shelf roads. While the first portion is manageable in a high-clearance 2WD, 4WD is recommended to reach the end.

Looking for an Epic Camping Spot? Head to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

If you're willing to drive a little farther, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is one of the best places in Southern California for dispersed camping and more exploring. Located just under three hours from Costa Mesa, this massive park offers stunning desert landscapes, remote trails, and endless opportunities for adventure.

Check out our Anza Borrego guide to see all the trails!

Why Camp in Anza-Borrego?

• Incredible Scenery - Towering badlands, slot canyons, and open desert make for unforgettable views.
• Off-Roading & Overlanding – The park has hundreds of miles of trails, from beginner-friendly routes to technical rock crawls.
• Dispersed Camping – Unlike many state parks, Anza-Borrego allows free camping almost anywhere, as long as you follow park rules.
• Dark Sky Camping – With minimal light pollution, it's a prime spot for stargazing after a long day on the trails.

If you have extra time after Overland Expo SoCal, heading to Anza-Borrego for a few nights under the stars is the perfect way to extend your adventure.

Whether you’re looking for a casual scenic drive or a rugged off-road challenge, these trails offer something for every type of overlander. Have a favorite trail near Costa Mesa? Drop a comment and share your experience!