Turkey Claw

5/5 (23 reviews)
Turkey Claw isn’t just a trail, it’s a rite of passage for true offroad warriors. Tucked into the legendary Johnson Valley, California, the stomping grounds of King of the Hammers, this short but savage rock-crawling beast will challenge your rig and your nerve from the very first boulder.Whether y...Read More
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Highlights of Turkey Claw

Desert Category IconDesert
Iconic Category IconIconic
Rock Category IconRock
Sand Category IconSand
Wash Category IconWash
Highest Elevation
2834 ft
Shape of Trail
Straight Through
Typically Open
Year Round
Best Direction
West
Official Trail Name
Turkey Claw
Nearest Town
Yucca Valley
Nearest Services
Yucca Valley
Management Agency
Bureau of Land Management
District
Barstow Field Office

Overview

Turkey Claw isn’t just a trail, it’s a rite of passage for true offroad warriors. Tucked into the legendary Johnson Valley, California, the stomping grounds of King of the Hammers, this short but savage rock-crawling beast will challenge your rig and your nerve from the very first boulder.

Whether you're behind the wheel of a nimble Jeep 2-door JL, a classic CJ, or a fully-built 4-door JKU, Turkey Claw doesn’t discriminate, it dishes out punishment and thrills in equal measure. Expect steep climbs, axle-snapping rocks, and narrow lines that demand precision, guts, and a serious sense of adventure. Body damage? Possible. Driveline carnage? Maybe. Epic stories and unforgettable memories? Guaranteed.

If you're craving a heart-pounding challenge in SoCal’s offroad playground, head southwest from Means Dry Lake and put Turkey Claw on your must-conquer list. It's not just a trail, it’s a test of everything you and your 4x4 are made of.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
7 Waypoints
23 Trail Photos
5 Trail Concerns
23 Community Reviews
1 Video
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