Upper Nisene Marks 8+ miles 1400 TEG

This hike is a bit over 8 miles with approximately 1400' elevation gain in the lovely forest of Nisene Marks. View our route <Here>. Although I have allowed up to 4 hours, we'll hike at a moderate pace 2.5 - 2.8 and may finish earlier. We'll take a short snack break mid-way.

The trail is mostly shaded, has some steep and narrow sections, one creek crossing, and a log bridge. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, bug spray (could be buggy) and any other items you like to have on a hike of this distance and elevation gain.

Fun Fact: The park's name honors Nisene Marks, the nature-loving mother of the Salinas farm family that bought the land in the 1950s. Her children donated approximately 9,700 acres to the state in 1963 with the provision that the land never be developed.

We'll meet at the Porter Family Picnic Area and start our hike promptly at 9:00am. This is the furthest parking area inside the park (~15 minute drive from the park entrance) so allow sufficient time to get here.

$8/vehicle day use fee to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, no dogs allowed on these trails. New but very rough pit toilet at the parking area.

Legal Disclaimer: The organizers and hosts in this group are not professional guides, and each person who signs up for a trip/meetup/ or outing is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests and property. Outdoor activities are inherently hazardous. By signing up for this hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you are aware and have made your guests aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with vigorous outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge “Connect Outdoors”, the organizer, assistant organizers, event organizers and event hosts of this Meetup group from and against any and all liability arising from your and your guest's participation in the group activities. As always, this is a “Participate at your Own Risk” event.