This route is particularly special as in densely populated Southern California, we typically only have islands of natural land imprisoned by city. The region this trail passes through, the Santa Anas, is the largest contiguous area of natural open space in our area. This is wild land, the mountains: rocky, rugged and remote. The tallest of these mountains, Modjeska and Santiago Peaks, affectionately referred to as one by the name "Saddleback Mountain", rise nearly 5600' above sea level and are recognizable throughout all of Orange and Riverside Counties. In winter, they're snowcapped; and in one-in-one-hundred winters, you can ski them. The Santa Ana mountains host a range of ecological zones and are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species. In addition, the Santa Anas have a rich history, first being home to indigenous peoples, then to Spanish explorers, missionaries and early miners. In fact, the trails themselves have historical significance; for example, The Luge, previously known as "The Morrow Trail", was a trail used by miners to go between silver locations of the upper Santiago

The residents of Orange and Riverside counties; mountain bikers and gravel bikers (primarily in the northern half); hikers.
Particular small local economies that benefit from this trail include Silverado Canyon, Modjeska Canyon, Trabuco Canyon and El Cariso. There are a few markets and restaurants in these quaint towns that trail users frequent..

Recognition as a BOLT trail is especially important because much of the southern half of the route was severely damaged in the 2024 Airport Fire. Without restoration and continued stewardship, key trail segments could be permanently lost. Recognition would help support rebuilding efforts, increase awareness of the trail system, and improve safe and equitable access for mountain bikers and hikers sharing the Main Divide corridor with motorized vehicles.