Salmon Creek Spectacular Falls & Trail

4 to 6 miles total, depending on trail condition; up to 1400 feet of vertical.
Difficult, strenuous hike. Rain cancels.

After the rains, Salmon Creek Falls (120 feet tall) are flowing big. Saw them on Saturday Feb 28, and its looking great. Now is the time, as the poison oak is just starting to grow, and looks like it will be rampant soon enough.

This hike will start at the Salmon Creek Trailhead, and first go up Salmon Creek Trail to Spruce Creek Camp and maybe Estrella Camp. Trail reports say the trail is clear to Spruce since the last rains (reports on bigsurtrailmap.net from VWA). To Estrella, it may be ok. The trail has some steep scree sections (has for years), and likely some trees to step over. If heights and narrow trails are a problem, it may not be for you.

We will visit the falls on the return when there's more afternoon light, and warmer than first thing in the morning. We may also get to see Upper Salmon Creek Falls on the way to Estrella Camp.

Steep hillsides with some scree and likely some trees and water to cross. Trail will be muddy in sections, though classified as "wilderness highway".
Poison oak lives here, and is just starting to grow again. It isn't growing across the trail yet, easy to stay away from it.

Bring snacks & lunch, a jacket, much of this is in shade, and it will be cool. Take water, or carry a filter to lighten your pack! Bring a hat and sturdy boots. Poles help given trail conditions.
Finally, be sure to read the Disclaimer below.

Disclaimer
This Meetup Group, SLO County Hikers, its organizers, hosts, and members, take no responsibility for any injuries or accidents that may occur during events. By joining this event you take full responsibility for your own safety. Please ensure that you are in good health before participating and understand that there is risk involved in your participation. SLO County Hikers organizers and trip leaders are not trained and certified hiking or backpacking leaders and as such, SLO County Hikers does not certify the qualifications of any of its organizers or trip leaders, and they are not responsible for your safety. We are all just participants. By participating you acknowledge you have read this Disclaimer and agree to its terms.
Finally, if you bring guests to participate in the event you agree to take full responsibility for your guests and confirm that your guests understand and agree to all above terms and conditions.