10k Loop at Briones

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Great loop with moderate elevation, spectacular views, and beautiful nature. I like the mix of gravel roads and trails. Perfect 10K hiking loop.

If you are sensitive to poison oak, try to stay at center of the road/trail to avoid any contact with the plant.

There are couple of turns that you don't want to miss. My recommendation is to print a copy of the trail map and take it with you at least the first time. Even better you if have a GPS watch to check the distances so you don't miss any turn. If you miss the turn you won't be lost, but you can easily add a few miles to the loop.

Most of the trail is gradual and easy to hike. Only a couple of times does the trail become really steep, and there are only a few points where the trail becomes VERY steep.

The first part is almost flat, then after a right turn, the trail ascends the hills until it reaches the ridge. It follows the ridge for a while until it reaches a gate on the left. Across the gate, a road quickly goes down back to the first part of the trail.

During the summer, it can be very hot here, so I strongly recommend to bring plenty of water.

Plenty of flowers and animals along the trail. There can also be cows on the trails.