Gale Mountain Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Spring · Views · Wildlife

This loop heads up a very steep climb on paved Gale Mountain Rd, across the lovely John's Pasture Rd, and then down the unpaved Pomello Dr. It can be combined with the Claremont Loop for a longer hike.

Hikers can start from anywhere along the Thompson Creek Trail, but there is free parking at the northernmost end of Indian Hill Blvd or at La Puerta Park. While heading NE on Thompson Creek, hang a left over the bridge at the Girl Scout horse barn. Take an immediate right towards the gate and there is a narrow, somewhat hidden trail going over a small hill to the left. Follow the unpaved E. Pommello Drive road until it splits.

Take the right at the paved fork and get ready to work. The climb up Gale Motorway is steep and challenging, but you are rewarded with a nice hike along the lovely Johnson Pasture Rd. Keep taking left turns to complete the loop and end up where you started. This loop is much less crowded and prettier than Claremont Loop. For hikers looking for other options, there are many variations or add-ons to add some variety to your hike.

Have only seen one rattlesnake in two years. Lots of birds, and some black-tailed deer and coyotes