Panthertown Valley Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Swimming · Views · Waterfall

What makes this 6.0 mile loop so interesting is the diversity of terrain. There are high alpine bogs, stunning waterfalls, granite overlooks, and a variety of unique fauna within the 6.0 miles.

From the Salt Rock Trailhead, follow the gravel road down into the valley. At 0.1 miles, you'll come to an overlook known as Salt Rock. From here, you can see the entire valley of Panthertown.

Continue down the gravel road and look for a trail to the right marked as Mac's Gap Trail #482. Follow this narrow trail into a deciduous forest and eventually into a beautiful pine forest. At 1.3 miles, there is a spur trail to the right. Granny Burrel Falls is only about 200 yards down the spur. Backtrack to Mac's Gap Trail #482 and continue along the valley floor to Little Green Trail #485 (2.3 miles). Take a left on Little Green Trail, which starts as a moderate climb but gets steep, ascending a series of steps up the side of Little Green.

Once on the top, the trail follows the contour of the ridge line, and one must navigate across barren rock which can be a little difficult to follow. Watch for faint white arrows painted on the rock's surface and occasionally a green marker nailed to a tree or an exposed root. There are some tremendous views of the valley along this stretch.

After taking in the view of Tranquility Point, follow the steep trail down the backside of the mountain to School House Falls. After leaving School House Falls, the trail is on a raised boardwalk for a short stretch. Then comes to the Panthertown Valley Trail #474. Turn left and follow the trail back to Salt Rock trailhead.