Ranch Road Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Wildlife

The Ranch Road Trail descends steeply from the Hayfield Trail through the preserve along a doubletrack dirt trail. In the evening, deer and rabbits can be seen feeding in the fields along the trail. Flowers bloom along the trail in the spring time, making it a nice hike. Most of the trail is shaded by trees that line the trail providing relief from the sun. Once you get to the end of the trail, the only way back to your vehicle is to climb back up Ranch Road or ascend one of the other trails that intersect with this trail.

The easiest way to access the Ranch Road Trail is to climb the Regnart Trail and turn left on the Hayfield Trail. When the Woodhills Loop Trail goes off to the left, the Ranch Road begins a steep descent downhill. The trail is a doubletrack dirt trail that descends steeply through the forest. After a tenth of a mile, the Woodhills Loop Trail breaks off to the left and climbs uphill. The Ranch Road Trail continues to descend through the shade of the forest. The dirt can be slippery, so watch your step. Parts of the trail may be washed out if it has been raining recently. After passing the .4 mile mark, the trail opens up a little and the Seven Springs Trail crosses the trail. Deer can be seen feeding in the fields in the mornings and evenings. No matter which option you choose, either section of the Seven Springs Trail will take you back to the Hayfield Trail.

From here Ranch Road levels out and descends to a dead end at the preserve boundary. The trail is less maintained and transforms from a wide dirt trail into two tracks with grass growing between them (essential two tire tracks). Less concealed than it was in the woods, the trail passes by fields on the left hand side until it emerges at a roundabout area and a large fence that separates the preserve from private property. At this point, your only option is to retrace your tracks back to the Seven Springs Trail and either explore other parts of the preserve or climb back up Ranch Road Trail to where you started. It's a good workout in this direction as it is entirely uphill.

Deer and rabbits can be seen feeding along the trail in the evening while birds can be seen in the woods. Lizards or snakes may make their way onto the trail in warmer weather, so watch your step.