Just over two years to the date that they were closed because of the Buckweed Fires that roared through Soledad Canyon in October 2007, the Rowher Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area have reopened. The popular riding area is located in the Angeles National Forest off the 14 Freeway northeast of Santa Clarita.
Crews have been hard at work repairing and grooming roads throughout the area, which has been closed for two years. Virtually all of the 10,000 acre facility was burned. Although vegetation has returned to the area, full natural recovery of the region will not occur for many years.
An Adventure Pass is not needed for green- or red-stickered vehicles, but is needed for other vehicles (including support and tow vehicles) parked in the OHV area. All motorcycles, 4-wheel drive behicles and other OHV’s must have approved muffler systems and spark arresters.
To reach Rowher Flats, take the Sierra Highway off-ramp from the 14 freeway and travel north. Make a left turn on Rush Canyon Road. Overnight camping is allowed, although there are no developed campground facilities, including potable water.
Angeles National Forest has a designated OHV route system. To aid in the protection of native flora and fauna, riders are required to stay on designated routes, which are signed by type or use and level of difficulty. Trails within Rowher Flat generally require intermediate to advanced riding skills. Novice riders should consider staying on flat areas.
For more information on Rowher Flat OHV Area, call the Santa Clara-Mohave Rivers Ranger District at (661) 296-9710. For information on other OHV recreation opportunities on the Angeles National Forest, click here.