Sometimes you have to work a little harder to get to a trailhead. About six miles of dirt road with four miles really requiring a high clearance vehicle can make getting to the Fourth of July trailhead challenging. BUT, it is worth it! I was amazed at how full the parking area was when we arrived at 8:30 AM. Many of the vehicles were small sub compacts with low clearance but they braved the road successfully.
There are limited parking spaces directly at the trailhead but parking is allowed along the access road facing outbound. The best bet is to drive to the trailhead to turn around and then look for the first place you can sneak into as you head back out. With any luck you will not have to park too far away.
There is a clean outhouse at the trailhead that is busy with folks lined up before tackling the trails.
The trails are well maintained and offer nice shade in the lower portions. The winter of 2023 left snow tucked away in ravines and gulches that feed a constant flow of water cascading across the trail in lots of places. They are not difficult to cross and offer spectacular views of waterfalls surrounded by gorgeous wildflowers.
The trailhead is a great jumping off place for a day hike or access to the backcountry for camping and exploration.