Trail Access Post Project Report: Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship

RealTruck’s Trail Access Grant Program exists to protect, preserve, and improve off-road and overland access on public lands across the country. From mild trail maintenance to comprehensive town cleanups, the projects and organizations we partner with each quarter help to keep trails open, safe, and sustainable for future generations. Learn more about the Trail Access Grant (TAG) program and our past projects in our previous recap article. 

In Q3 of 2025, RealTruck awarded a $5,000 Trail Access Grant to Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) to support critical maintenance and restoration efforts on Mount Hough Road 10M23 in Plumas County, California. 

Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is a nonprofit organization based in Plumas County, California, dedicated to building, maintaining, and restoring sustainable multi-use trails throughout the Northern Sierra Nevada. 

SBTS works closely with public land managers, local communities, volunteers, and professional trail crews to ensure continued access for recreationists while promoting responsible land use, erosion control, and long-term trail sustainability. Their work supports everything from OHV and 4WD trails to mountain biking, hiking, and backcountry access routes. 

The goal of this Trail Access Grant project was to restore and maintain Mount Hough Road 10M23—a vital 4x4 OHV route that connects Tollgate Forest Road, Mount Hough, Quincy, and Taylorsville.

The Dixie Fire heavily impacted this road, and a subsequent wet and windy winter left numerous downed trees, overgrown brush, displaced rocks, and drainage issues. Without intervention, access between Quincy and Taylorsville via this route would have remained unsafe or impassable for OHV and 4x4 users.

RealTruck’s funding and the valiant efforts of SBTS enabled volunteers to clear downed and hazardous trees, remove and relocate loose rocks, cut back overgrown brush, and improve drainage to prevent future erosion. 

The project took place over two weeks in September 2025, combining volunteer support with the expertise of a professional trail crew. To staff the project, SBTS turned to its own three workers, seven volunteers from Feather River College’s Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program, and a mini-excavator to clear the way for new drains. 

Over the course of two weeks, SBTS cleared four existing drains and constructed five new drains, removed 22 downed trees, cleared dense, overgrown brush, and refinished the dirt trail. The result is a fully cleared, safe, and sustainable trail that once again improves the connection between rural communities and enhances long-term access for wheelers. 

Feedback from the team highlighted a strong sense of community, encouragement, curiosity, and enthusiasm. 

Projects like this are only possible through community support, partnerships, and hands-on involvement. If you’re passionate about trail access and public land stewardship, consider donating your time or funding in the following ways. 

SBTS regularly hosts volunteer trail days and stewardship projects throughout the Sierra Nevada. Volunteering is a great way to give back, learn new skills, and help keep trails open and accessible. Visit Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship’s events page to learn about upcoming opportunities and how to get involved.

Donations directly support SBTS’s ongoing trail maintenance, restoration projects, professional trail crews, and volunteer programs. To contribute financially, visit their donation page and help ensure continued access to these vital trail systems.

RealTruck is proud to support organizations like Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and remains committed to protecting the trails that allow us to express our passion for off-road adventure. Keep up the great work, SBTS!