Another Back Way to Crown King Post....

Alright, I know the question has been asked before, but most posts are old and I know the trails change over time.

I've got a 2018 TRD OR double cab short bed almost stock Tacoma. I've got avid bolt-on frame sliders with kick outs. Also have Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT tires 265/75 r16.

How doable is it in my close to stock Taco? Anyone been up recently and know trail conditions? Potential plan is Sunday this weekend.

Also, anyone interested in running back way to Crown King on Sunday? Either way I'm going, even if I have to ride in my neighbor's Cherokee. I've never been up there.

 

It can be done. Skid plates would be advised in about 4 places, but with the sliders it will minimize the possibility of body damage. Good luck.

 

I haven't been recently, and it has rained alot in that area recently. Most of the way up just stay on the main trail, skip the harder side obstacles.
Once you get to the mine, I would expect the creek to have plenty of water in it. Expect unseen boulders in the water.
After that Ore Belle will present the biggest obstacles you can't bypass. Typically staying right on this is best, tipping on the side wall. The little creek will wet your tires and make the line you choose a little more interesting.

My buddy with stock double cab (at that time) smashed his side step pretty hard here and took some skid plate hits.

After that there is another creek crossing up stream of Ore Belle ruins, some times boulders and ledges, other times fine.

Other than that watch out for on coming Rzr traffic/other folk.

Leave as early as possible to avoid some traffic.

Have fun!

 

Haven’t done it in about a year. sliders are def a plus. You will bang up some of the bottom a bit. That said and to your point, it has probably washed out a good amount more and will be challenging. Good news is that you will have a lot of people to help you if needed as there are a TON of people on it. It’s a long run but really cool to watch it change from desert to forest.

 

Well, how did it go?

 

I chickened out and rode with my neighbor. It was absolutely beautiful. There was so much green, along with water in places. I am pretty sure I could make it as my truck sits but it would be sketchy in a few places. There's a bypass by the big water fall now, which I was told it wasn't there before. Ended up taking longer than expected, but that's because we ended up joining a larger group of about 11 vehicle (Wranglers, Land Rovers, a first gen Tacoma, a third gen 4runner, and a Montero). All in all, it was a great time. Funny thing is, my neighbor's Cherokee on a 3" lift and 33s seemed more capable than some of the lifted Wranglers on 35"+.

I won't be taking my Tacoma out there until I get more armor and/or a lift for sure.

Thanks everyone for the replies and input.