Rock Garden Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This trail winds it's way through boulders the size of cars up to multi-story apartment buildings that have fallen off the opposing cliffline above. If you are hiking in winter you get a fantastic view of Lovers Leap and the buttress.

From Low Gap head right (south) toward Natural Bridge. Continue up through some insanely steep stairs (think Stairs of Cirith Ungol) that will make you think twice about returning the same way.

At the top of the rock steps the grade eases and you can settle into picking your line through rocks and roots along the edge of a cliff with a few smooth sections interspersed. You'll breathe a sigh of relief when you see the big arch ahead of you.

Amazing grouping of ferns, several protected species of wildflowers, the usual assortment of small woodland creatures and of course amazing towering trees.