Islands & Monte Rio Redwoods 12 Mile Trek

DIFFICULTY: Strenuous
DISTANCE: 12 Miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 2300 feet
PACE: Probably around 20 to 30 minute miles depending on conditions
WEATHER: Duncans Mills, CA 10-Day Weather Forecast | Weather Underground

Join us for an exploration of some of the lesser traveled but equally scenic areas of Monte Rio Redwoods and Islands in the Sky! This challenging 12 mile route features lots of uphill climbing but also plenty of redwood forest shade (and viewpoints).
Starting from the Freezeout gate, we head up the road to the Box Springs trail and then climb to Monte Rio Road along the spine of the ridge. After an out and back to Starret Hill and West Pole, we loop back through Sound of Music and follow the newly accessible Fern Springs route out to Islands and back to the start.

This will be a joint event with the Sea and Mountain hiking group and parking is difficult, so we're limiting attendees this time around.

ROUTE MAP:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-720c1e0?u=i&sh=pmqm6r

DETAILS

• MEETING TIME: 8:30 AM. We will depart promptly at 8:40am.
• MEETING SPOT: Islands in the Sky Trailhead: 25572 Freezeout Rd, Monte Rio
• RESTROOMS: Only one along this route, in the parking area about 15 minutes from the start, please plan accordingly!
• GEAR: Bring plenty of water and snacks. Dress in layers - we'll probably have AM fog but it may warm up later, and portions of this route are exposed to the sun. Poles will be very useful, there are some steep climbs and descents.