Wilderness Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This loop trail offers a great view of the river off the bluff, and a really lovely spring at the back end. With multiple backpacking campsites along the loop, this trail makes for a great first time backpacking outing or a nice day hike.

Usually there are three or four creek crossings - all have been shallow under normal conditions. The park itself is subject to seasonal flooding. There is a connector available to shorten the route (~6 miles total), and the trail crosses the 185 Spur twice. Cell reception is good from atop the ridges.

It's strongly recommend that hikers take this route counterclockwise - you'll go down a steep grade at the start (~mile 2) and gradually make it back after you start the return trip up out of the valley after seeing the spring. It's a butt kicker to do clockwise - my phone counted it at 35 flights of stairs, which kinda stinks for mile 7!

Along the way, there will be plenty of ups and downs no matter which way you decide to go. The route is well shaded though, which makes it a pleasant and scenic loop no matter what time of year you visit, and especially beautiful and pleasant in the fall. Keep your wits about you if you're travelling in the spring, as the trail can be slippery!