Best hikes on roads?

[MojaveGeek]

As far as driving some of the roads that were brought up, I think a lot of us have forgotten how far one can actually travel in 2WD. If of enough clearance, and the nature of the trail isn't too sandy, a vehicle can travel farther than we might give it credit for. But, I advise not traveling farther than you feel comfortable, and not beyond where you can turn around.

This is very true. I've been driving rental sedans with street tires around the place for 3 decades, and the only flat I got was on pavement. Of course a key is to drive slowly. I'm not as bold as I was when I was younger though and I can certainly appreciate people exercising caution and not going places I went. When I went out, I always carried enough gear to be able to walk out and get help if needed, and was aware the I would be liable financially.

OTOH, if I lived out there I'd be fully into having an appropriate vehicle.

You can rent an SUV, its about 1.4x a sedan, and will give better clearance, but the tires won't be any better for the most part. I tend to choose which roads to drive based on what I get at the rental counter I also really enjoy it with friends with much more capable vehicles are in the area.