The Sound of Music - Monte Rio Redwoods
Overview
Push your limits on a strenuous redwood climb, enjoy a rewarding ridge view, and connect with fellow hikers who love a serious outdoor workout.
Details
DIFFICULTY: Very Strenuous.
DISTANCE: 7 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1600 feet
PACE: Since the uphill portion will be a bit slower, we'll start at a more relaxed 30 min/mi pace and only go faster if everyone is comfortable with more speed.
WEATHER: Monte Rio, CA 10-Day Weather Forecast | Weather Underground - rain forecast will mean postponement due to muddy conditions on this route – I will update a couple of days before.
DOG FRIENDLY: Yes, dogs on leash are allowed.
Ready to work off that big Xmas dinner? This tough climb through the costal redwoods will definitely burn away the calories. The reward is (if weather permits) a fantastic view from a spot known as The Sound of Music. This whole area was only recently opened to the public and it's still relatively undiscovered.
THE ROUTE: Starting from the parking area along the road just south of Monte Rio we head up the hill - and there is a LOT of up, 1500 feet of elevation gain. The climb to the top of the ridge is through a beautiful redwood forest, but be warned that the first hour or so of this hike will be relentless uphill!
Once we hit the top of the ridge things get more level and we head south to the Sound of Music overlook and nearby Campo Gianni. We then head down the road back to our starting point.
ROUTE MAP: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/custom-route-48ac3df?u=i&sh=pmqm6r
MONTE RIO REDWOODS: Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park and Open Space Preserve
DETAILS
- MEETING TIME: 9:00 AM
- MEETING SPOT: In the small parking area for Monte Rio Redwoods
- PARKING: The parking lot is very small and there is an $8 cash fee to park there -- but there are several pull-out roadside parking areas close by if you want to avoid the fee.
- RESTROOMS: There is a porta potty at the trailhead, but nothing else along the rest of the route, please plan accordingly!
- GEAR: Bring water and snacks. Dress in layers – will be cool and shady most of the way but may warm up on the return. Poles will be very useful.
- AFTER HIKE LUNCH: Lightwave in Monte Rio: yelp.com