Jacks & Notch Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

One of many local favorite front side hike loops that can be done fairly quickly. There is not typically much downhill traffic on Jack's Trail. And you get to experience the awesomeness of Hartman's rock formations.

This is a multi use area where pedestrians, mountain bikers, dirt bikers, campers and everyone in between shares the trails and usually even gets along. Keep the culture by being friendly and courteous.

Starting at the front side base area, pass through the obvious opening in the railings near the bathroom building. Look for signs for Jack's Trail early in the braided trail network. Once you're on the established Jack's Trail, it is pretty easy navigation from there. Climb meandering switchbacks to the top of "Kill Hill" where you pass through a gate/cattle guard and merge with the road at the upper trailhead.

Take a sharp left turn, southerly, heading along well worn paths behind the rock formations until you come to the intersection for The Notch Trail. This is a popular downhill mountain bike route, so keep your head on a swivel for them. There is ample room to move to the side and there are no blind corners, so as long as your earbuds aren't in, you'll have plenty of warning.

Once you've descended away from the rock formations, take Swoosh back to the lot (or choose your own way down well worn trails, all of which end up at the base area parking lot). Also consider extending your adventure to descend Backbone instead of The Notch Trail. Both options are excellent.

Sage, paintbrush, lupine. Coyote, mountain lion, deer, raptors and songbirds.