#COYOTE LAKE DRIVERS#
#COYOTE LAKE SERIES#

On the other hand, to take the right-side trail (trending west-southwest) would be to take the rockier path that requires technical 4×4 driving.This is demonstrated by the yellow line on the aerial map image below. Continuing this trail entails a similar 4×4 driving experience as the previous sections of the Coyote Flat trail. To take the left-side trail (trending south) would be to take the path of intermediate difficulty.Nonetheless, both options of this fork will result in the camping site destination at Funnel Lake. The second of two significant forks in the road has no signage and is anticipated about 80% of the way towards Funnel Lake. Although these two sites are also scenic, they are not directly accessible to the Funnel Lake campsite.Ĭoyote Creek Coyote Flats Trail Fork 1st Fork in the Road 6. To stay on the right side (trending west-southwest) of this fork would result in a camping site destination at Coyote Lake and Rocky Bottom Lake.Geo Forward recommends taking the left-side trail at this fork (trending south) to achieve the Funnel Lake campsite destination.The first of two significant forks in the road is the “Coyote Creek / Coyote Flats Trail Fork.” This area includes posted signage and is anticipated about 60% of the way towards Funnel Lake. First Fork in the Road (Coyote Creek/Flats Trail Fork) This is because any release of automotive oil, fluid, or fuel has the potential to migrate through the river system, and further pollute the soil and groundwater of the environment. Moreover, it is advised that supplemental fuel storage tanks, such as NATO Jerricans, are properly harnessed to the vehicle at a height above the line of water. The Environmental Professionals at Geo Forward advise all off-road vehicle owners to thoroughly inspect their engine bays and undercarriages prior to crossing rivers. Prevention of Stream & Subsurface Contamination In fact, the most common release points of such contaminants are the engine oil pan, transmission pan, differential system housings, steering system ball-joints, and more.

#COYOTE LAKE DRIVERS#

Moreover, Geo Forward advises all drivers to be sure their vehicles are not releasing toxic contaminants into the streams upon vehicular contact with the flowing water.Ĭommon off-road automobile contaminants are various types of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), and metals.

Slower 4×4 driving through the creeks preserves the natural grade of the river system’s sediments and thus, the ecosystem. And during the fall seasons, there is a magnificent display of color-change in the trees and vegetation along the creeks.Īerial Image Map of Coyote Creek 4×4 Off-Road Trail River Crossings Coyote Creek Crossing Environmental ComplianceĪs a matter of environmental compliance and nature conservation, Geo Forward and the National Parks Services recommends driving slowly through rivers. Depending on the time of year, the depths of water at each crossing can range from 6 inches to 2.75 feet. And this is approximately 65% of the way to Funnel Lake. Secondly, there is a river-crossing of the West Fork tributary of Coyote Creek.

Firstly, there is a river-crossing of Coyote Creek, which is expected upon seeing signage about the “Peterson Mill.” This is approximately 50% of the way to Funnel Lake. Crossing Both RiversĪs mentioned above, there are two river-crossings in the Coyote Flats 4×4 trail to Funnel Lake. Especially looking downwards in the valleys along both sides of Coyote Valley Road. Nonetheless, the drive is incredibly fun, and the scenery is magnificent. In fact, you can expect to go from about 5,000 to 9,000 feet above mean sea level within about 30 to 40 minutes of driving the section of the trail.

#COYOTE LAKE SERIES#

And there are a series of switch-backs elevating the road, with numerous boulders road voids, and alternating terrains along the way. The upward climb is relatively steep and slightly technical. 4×4 Driving Up the Mountains on Coyote Valley Road, Inyo National Forest

Coyote lake