Ridgeline Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

This hike follows the east shore of Lake Del Valle before heading up the ridge and offering great views from atop the ridge.

The trail starts next to the boat launch. Pass through the cattle gate and follow the trail alongside the beach. Hetch Hetchy Trail is to the right at 0.6 miles. The Hetch Hetchy Group Camp is shortly thereafter on the left. There are ample swimming opportunities in this area.

After 1 mile, take Ridgeline Trail on the right. Hike up the hill. Great views of Lake Del Valle make the ascent very worthwhile. At 1.4 miles, the East Shore Trail descends to the left. Keep right to stay on Ridgeline Trail. Most of the ascent for the next mile is fairly gentle. Views to the left and right across the hills and across Lake Del Valle are very rewarding.

At 1.75 miles, stay left as Hetch Hetchy Trail continues to the right. At 2.4 miles, Eagle Crest Trail joins from the right and Ridgeline Trail makes a sharp left turn. Keep right shortly thereafter as the East Ridge Trail continue to the left.

The Ridgeline Trail hugs the hills and gently ascends and descends with Eagle Crest Trail and Squirrel Gulch Trail joining from the right. There is a steep descent at 3.5 miles. The Lake View Trail is to the left at 3.8 miles. The remainder of the trail is a gentle descent to Lake Del Valle.