Dusy-Ershim OHV Route

Dusy-Ershim OHV Route is recommended for advanced drivers. A route requiring a high degree of skill and challenge to travel. Not recommended for full-size pickups, long wheel base vehicles or for traveling alone.

The route begins at 8,400 feet elevation, with many open rocky areas. Be aware of the trail cross large granite slabs and are marked with rocks. Elevation rises to 10,000 feet at Thompson Lake, remaining at the 9,000 to 10,000 foot range for the rest of the route.

The first mile of the route is shared with foot and horse traffic. Three miles in the route reaches Voyager Rock Campground, a popular area for fishing Courtright Reservoir. Leaving the campground, keep to the left as the "fun" begins at Chicken Rock, a definite attention getter. The panoramic view of the Le Conte Divide from the top is breath taking. The route wanders on to Dusy Creek where 4WD enthusiast built a crossing over the creek.
Three hours ahead, is a very challenging stretch of the road known as "Thompson Hill". Vehicles should have a body lift, running cool and hitting on all cylinders. Even tires with aggressive tread will benefit with reduced air pressure. Even with all of this preparation, several stops may be necessary to throw a few rocks in the right places for traction. Access to Thompson Lake is closed at the wilderness boundary. A camping site with room for a few vehicles and tents is available here. The walk to the lake is short and easy.

Continuing on the route, Summit Lake is about an hour from Thompson Lake. The next stop available is East Lake, which is not visible from the route making it easy to miss. Ershim Lake is next with lots of space for camping and parking. Follow signs to campsites. The route from the top of Thompson Hill to Ershim Lake is fairly tame. However, the scenery becomes more interesting than the challenge of the route.

It will take about three hours to cover the four miles to Lakecamp Lake. Rainbow trout make Lakecamp unique as the other lakes along this route have Brook Trout. The next four difficult miles to Whitebark Vista will test driving skills, but the panoramic views are worth the effort. The route ends at Whitebark Vista. Many people prefer to use this Whitebark Vista as a starting point.

Directions from Dinkey Creek: Follow Mckinley Grove Road to Courtright Road, and turn left to Courtright Reservoir. Cross the dam on the east side of the lake and stay on the road to the Dusy-Ershim OHV route sign.

Directions from Shaver Lake: Follow forest road 40 east for 19 miles to Mckinley Grove Road then to Courtright Road, and turn left to Courtright Reservoir. Cross the dam on the east side of the lake and stay on the road to the Dusy-Ershim OHV route sign.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Open: Year-round . Normally Open: Spring through Fall .