Land of Medicine Buddha/Upper Nisene Marks Fusion Hike (Challenging)

** IMPORTANT! **
**PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION!**

Please RSVP only if you are committed to attend. Reevaluate your availability a few days before the hike and withdraw at that time if you can no longer commit. This allows others to attend.

Let's double our pleasure by combining Land of Medicine Buddha and Upper Nisene Marks with a double lollypop loop hike. We'll start in Land of Medicine Buddha (LOMB )and head up one side of the LOMB Loop Trail. At the top of the loop we will turn onto the Connector Trail to Upper Nisene Marks West Ridge Trail. We'll head up West Ridge to Big Stump Gap Trail/Ridge Connector Trail Loop. Then back onto West Ridge and the connector back to LOMB. We'll then head down the other side of the LOMB Loop Trail.
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/the-medicine-buddha-loop-trail-0a348ed

Significant inclines and declines and mileage render this a "Challenging" hike, one suitable for those in good hiking condition. See photo below. But it's a fun hike through consistently beautiful deep forest terrain. No major obstacles.

Bring water, snacks, tick/poison oak protection, hiking boots with good tread, any anticipated first aid needs and your love for adventure!

Length: 9.3+ miles Level of difficulty: Challenging
Elevation gain: 1575 feet Hiking time: 4-5 hours

Dogs are allowed on the LOMB trails but not on the Nisene Marks trails

Limited parking is located at the end of Prescott Road in Soquel right before you cross the bridge onto LOMB property. See photo below. I recommend carpooling in. There should be parking available at or near Congregational Church, Soquel Drive and Main Street, for those who would like to consolidate cars.

Safety: Please keep in mind that you always hike at your own risk and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.

Take a few moments and refer to the frequently updated Soquel SoleMates Hiking Group general description ("What We're About") for important information about this group. Soquel Soulmates Hiking Group
https://www.meetup.com/soquel-solemates-hiking-group/

I hope to see you there!
Jill :)