Maple Falls at Nisene Marks - 10 miles - 1300 TEG

This route to Maple Falls is about 10 miles, averaging a brisk pace of 2.7 miles per hour. Because the winter gate is closed, we'll start at George's Picnic Area. After a short walk on Aptos Creek Road, we'll veer left to Loma Prieta Grade, all the way to Bridge Creek Trail which takes us up to Maple Falls. Expect a moderate intensity hike. There are definitely some more challenging spots as we get closer to Maple Falls where scrambling is required. Because we're going clockwise the steepest part is downhill.

Please note: the section of trail to Maple Falls includes some climbing and scrambling, an agility course of sorts. Gloves come in very useful. The hike may include extra fun of making your way over, around and up different types of natural barriers. There are several smallish shallow creek crossings. Total elevation gain is about 1300 feet. Miles and elevation are estimates. Please allow 4 hours hiking time.

Be prepared: Hiking shoes with good tread, gloves and clothing that will protect you from the ever-present poison oak. We'll take a snack break at Maple Falls.

Start time 9:00am: Let's meet at George's Picnic Area where parking may be tight due to construction of new restrooms (yay!). There is an $8 entrance fee unless you have a SP pass. Leave plenty of time to get there on a very rutted dirt road.

Very Important: If you sign up for the hike and your plans change for any reason, please change your RSVP so that those on the waitlist have the opportunity to join the hike.

Legal Disclaimer: The organizers and hosts in this group are not professional guides, and each person who signs up for a hike, event, or other outing is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests and property. 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 any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge 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.