Chestnut Ridge Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

One of my favorite trails in the Chestnut Ridge Park! We created this path using the Orienteering Trail and Boy Scout Trail to make a complete loop so that we could get a longer hike in that goes right back to our parking spot.

This trail is great for casual hikers looking for a bit more of a challenge and some exercise. This path is also ideal for athletic dogs and will be sure to tire them out. This hike is one of my favorites because it's fun yet difficult, has lots of beautiful views, two spots that cross streams, and passes through several types of terrain and forest areas.

This loop starts along the Orienteering Trail going south and picks up the Boy Scout Trail halfway through to come back north. There are some pretty steep inclines, muddy spots, and obstacles to climb over. The steepest incline occurs right after the trail switches from the Orienteering Trail to the Boy Scout Trail - there is a very steep hill to climb up (it's a great leg workout!).

Portions of the trail go near picnic areas and other portions are deeper and more secluded. It's overall a beautiful trail, and it's a nice loop that leaves you back at your parking spot at the end. Great for dogs that are up to the challenge. Highly recommend bringing a backpack with water for both humans and dogs - a collapsible dog bowl was very helpful.

There are lots of birds and butterflies, and more rarely deer and even owls.