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An awesome hike through the enchanted forest.


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Map Key

1.9

Miles

3.1

KM

Loop

611' 186 m

High

351' 107 m

Low

265' 81 m

Up

265' 81 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs No Dogs

Multi-use trail

Description

A favorite loop at Wilder Ranch State Park. From Hwy 1, you can access this loop from Baldwin Loop or Wilder Ranch Loop depending on where you parked.

There are some rougher sections through rocks and roots.

The trail is best known for the steep descent that starts at the intersection with Baldwin Loop. From a sunny meadow, the trail immediately plunges into deep shade under the Redwoods. Before your eyes fully adjust, the trail narrows, zig zags and drops through a short rocky and rooty section, then descends quickly before going over a set of three sharp rooty drops and dropping to the left over more roots. Be ready for the sharp left turn at the bottom, which begins a short roller coaster section terminating in a 12" or so drop. An immediate and sharp right turn starts a smooth and rolling segment that takes you to the canyon floor and a mixed woodland full of dappled light. This is the enchanted part. The climb out is gentle, winding, and beautiful.

Contacts

Land Manager: California State Parks

Shared By:

Johnny Y

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 2 votes

#1159

Overall
  5.0 from 2 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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Trail Rankings

#147

in California

#1,159

Overall
33 Views Last Month
2,594 Since Oct 11, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

25%
25%
25%
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Photos

Mushroom in the base of this tree.
Jan 1, 2021 near Santa Cruz, CA
This tree is holding on.
Jan 1, 2021 near Santa Cruz, CA
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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Check-Ins

Dec 6, 2020
Greg Grothaus
Was still dry. Some areas were still burned out from the fall fires, but no problem traversing. Spotted a few folks foraging mushrooms. 6.1mi — 2h 41m
Mar 8, 2019
Jessica Mutschler
Mar 7, 2019
Jessica Mutschler
Jan 21, 2018
H OD
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