We used this road to get to Laurel lakes for a mountaineering trip on Bloody mountain. It's a serious road and IS as rough as people say. If you go make sure you have a reliable high clearance 4WD vehicle with good tires. The overall climb is steep and puts a good load on the engine. Belts and hoses need to be in good shape for this one. We used a 2001 Durango and a later model Ford F350 super duty to get in and out.
Parked at Sherwin Creek Road and hiked all the way to the saddle between Laurel Mountain and Bloody Mountain. The views from the saddle are outstanding!
Hiked from the Sherwin Creek Road to almost the saddle between Laurel and Bloody Mountain. I was pleasantly surprised by the great fall colors in Laurel Canyon. I was hoping for some fall aspens but did definitely not expect that. Beautiful area. DId not see one soul along the way.