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Kennedy Meadows / Kern Plateau OHV area encompasses a substantial trail network across high-elevation terrain in the Southern Sierra Nevada, featuring routes that vary from technical single-track to expansive meadow crossings. The system spans the Kern Plateau with access through Sherman Pass Road, a two-lane route connecting the North Fork of the Kern River to Highway 395's high desert regions. The roadway ascends through Upper Kern River Canyon, cresting at Sherman Pass before dropping toward the plateau's eastern slope, traversing forest zones that shift from red fir through mixed conifer to pinyon pine vegetation. Elevation provides vistas of the Sierra Crest and Mt. Whitney group, along with cooler temperatures compared to lower-altitude riding areas.
Operating seasons extend from late May or early June until late fall or winter, with access timing determined by snowmelt and weather patterns that can restrict availability. The remote location necessitates complete self-sufficiency regarding supplies, fuel, and emergency equipment due to minimal services and challenging access conditions. The McNally Fire of 2002 impacted portions of the terrain, affecting some landscape characteristics. The area functions as a backcountry destination requiring experience with wilderness conditions and preparation for variable weather and trail conditions across the extensive high-elevation trail system.Dirt Bike Trail System
Kern Plateau OHV Area
AKA: Cannell Ranger District, Fish Creek Meadow, Pine Mountain, Jackass Meadows, Little Troy Meadows, Hooker Meadow, Smith Mountain, Sequoia National Forest, Ball Mountain, Bonita Meadows, West Meadow, Lookout Mountain, Danner Meadow, Corral Meadow, Stoney Meadow, Sherman Peak, Mahogany Creek, Trout Creek, Kern River, Monache Meadows, Kern Plateau OHV Area, Kern River Ranger District, Jackass Peak Motorized Trail, Kern Plateau, Rattlesnake Trail
Inyokern, CA
Trail System Statistics
Braaply Rating
Awesome
Approximate Size
160,000 acres (250 sq mi)
Miles of Trail
150 miles
Elevation Range
7500 to 9900 ft.
Operating Season
Mid June - November
About Kern Plateau OHV Area
Kennedy Meadows / Kern Plateau OHV area encompasses a substantial trail network across high-elevation terrain in the Southern Sierra Nevada, featuring routes that vary from technical single-track to expansive meadow crossings. The system spans the Kern Plateau with access through Sherman Pass Road, a two-lane route connecting the North Fork of the Kern River to Highway 395's high desert regions. The roadway ascends through Upper Kern River Canyon, cresting at Sherman Pass before dropping toward the plateau's eastern slope, traversing forest zones that shift from red fir through mixed conifer...
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Getting Here & Info
Parking
No parking fees reported.
Camping
Camping is allowed in developed sites only.
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Info
CA OHMVR stickers required
Regulations
Fish Creek Campground can accommodate trailers up to 27 feet and Troy Meadows up to 24 feet. Longer trailers can fit at overflow campgrounds.
Operating Season
Mid June - November
Trailhead Coordinates
35.9667969, -118.0952813
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Events at Kern Plateau OHV Area(Loading...)