Hollister Hills SVRA Upper Ranch
Off-Road Trails · Hollister, CA
Summary: Hollister Hills SVRA Upper Ranch offers a premier off-road experience nestled in the rolling hills of California.
At a glance
- Official site
- ohv.parks.ca.gov
- Agency phone
- (831) 637-8186
- Location
- Hollister, CA
- Rating
- ★ 4.5 (26 ratings) · Google Maps
About
Hollister Hills SVRA Upper Ranch offers a premier off-road experience nestled in the rolling hills of California. Spanning over 8,700 acres, this designated recreation area provides a diverse array of trails suitable for ATV riders, dirt bikers, and 4x4 enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy challenging dirt tracks, scenic hill climbs, and family-friendly routes that showcase the region's natural beauty. Managed by California State Parks, the site has been a trusted destination for outdoor recreation for more than five decades, attracting enthusiasts from across the state and beyond. On-site amenities include parking areas, restrooms, and a trail map kiosk to help plan your route. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure or a relaxed ride with family and friends, information on trail conditions and permits can be found at the visitor center or online. The facility prioritizes safety and environmental preservation, making it a sustainable and enjoyable destination for all levels of off-road skill. Visitors should come prepared with suitable gear, plenty of water, and navigation tools, especially in remote areas where cell service is limited. Drivable year-round, this area is especially popular during spring and fall, offering moderate weather and scenic landscapes that reflect California’s diverse terrain.
Trip notes
Generated from public descriptions. Not confirmed by the managing agency: check with them before you go.
- Best months
- April–October
- Vehicle
- High-Clearance 4x4
- Getting there
- Located off Cienega Road, accessible year-round with designated parking and staging areas for visitors driving various vehicle types.
- Seasonal notes
- Limited access during heavy rain or snow; fire bans may apply in dry season.
Questions
- What is this trail and what will I find here?
- This trail is a designated off-road vehicle recreation area located in Hollister, California, offering an extensive network of rugged trails suitable for off-road enthusiasts. Visitors will find a variety of terrains, including dirt tracks, hills, and open spaces perfect for practicing skills or enjoying scenic rides. The area provides opportunities for four-wheel driving, dirt biking, and ATV riding, catering to all skill levels. With over 8,700 acres of public land managed by the California State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), it has been trusted by off-road enthusiasts for more than 50 years. The facility includes designated areas for vehicle testing and a range of trails that cater to beginners as well as experienced drivers, making it an ideal spot for family outings or serious trail adventures. Facilities on-site include designated staging areas, restrooms, and a trail map kiosk, enhancing convenience for all visitors. The area attracts thousands of visitors annually who come to enjoy outdoor recreation and test their vehicles' capabilities amidst natural California landscapes.
- What are the hours or open season for this trail?
- The area is open year-round, with hours generally from dawn to dusk, though seasonal weather conditions can affect access during winter months.
- Do I need a permit, pass, or reservation, and is there a fee?
- Permit, pass and fee rules can change by season and activity. Check this listing's website, ohv.parks.ca.gov, for current requirements before you go, or call (831) 637-8186.
- How do I get to the trailhead and where do I park?
- The trailhead is accessible from Cienega Road in Hollister; parking is available in designated areas near the entrance, with ample space for large vehicles and trailers. Follow signs to the access points, and plan to arrive early on weekends or holidays for the best parking options.
- What vehicle clearance, footwear, or gear is required to complete this route safely?
- A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with off-road tires is recommended; drivers should wear sturdy footwear, carry necessary safety gear like helmets and gloves, and bring recovery equipment such as tow straps and a shovel for safe trail exploration.
- Is cell service available along the route, or are offline maps required to navigate safely?
- Cell service may be limited or unavailable in some parts of the area; offline maps or GPS devices are advised for navigation to ensure a safe adventure.
- Is this trail open on weekends, and does it tend to get crowded then?
- Traffic is heavier on weekends, leading to increased crowding on popular trail sections.
- Who owns, manages, or patrols this trail?
- Managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, with on-site patrols and maintenance teams.
- How do I contact the managing agency or check current trail conditions?
- Contact the Hollister Hills SVRA office or visit their official website for trail conditions and updates.
- What is the minimum ground clearance required for this off-road trail?
- A ground clearance of at least 12 inches is recommended for the rougher segments of the trail.
- Are full-size trucks capable of navigating this entire route without pin-striping?
- Full-size trucks can generally navigate the route, but some technical obstacles may challenge larger vehicles.
- What are the primary trail obstacles or major technical challenges present?
- Obstacles include rocky steep climbs, sharp switchbacks, and uneven terrain requiring careful maneuvering.
- Where is the nearest reliable legal location to air down and air back up?
- The nearest legal air-down area is the designated staging or parking zones within the park.
- Does this off-road route allow for OHV, green-sticker, or red-sticker vehicles?
- The trail permits OHV and green-sticker vehicles, but red-sticker vehicles are restricted or prohibited.
- What is the recommended tire size and tread configuration for safe passage?
- Use 33-inch tires with aggressive tread for optimal grip and clearance on this trail.
- Are winches or specific recovery points mandatory to navigate the trail safely?
- Winches and designated recovery points are highly recommended due to challenging sections and potential hazards.
- Where is the absolute closest emergency vehicle extraction or heavy towing point?
- Closest heavy towing or emergency extraction services are located in Hollister or neighboring towns.
- What are the specific rules regarding primitive dispersed camping along this track?
- Primitive camping is allowed only in designated areas and requires adherence to park rules and permits.
- What is the self-recovery difficulty if a vehicle gets stuck on this route?
- Self-recovery on this trail ranges from moderate to difficult; proper equipment and experience are advised.
Nearby
- Hayes Mansion — 42 mi
- Frank Raines OHV Park — 46 mi
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About this information
- Rating: Google Maps.
- Description, trip notes and questions: generated with AI from public descriptions. Confirm with the managing agency.
Last updated June 23, 2026