Sierra Club Ventana Chapter

Castle Rock Lower Loop Hike

Sun, May 31 · 10:00 AM PDT

Castle Rock roadside parking, https://maps.app.goo.gl/xKymqdE8Ri1WqLtH9?g_st=ac, Los Gatos, CA, US

Castle Rock Lower Loop hike

Castle Rock State Park
Come witness the grandeur of the Santa Cruz Mountains in all their springtime glory. This park has many large limestone formations standing watch over the evergreen redwood forest, giving it its name.

What to Expect: sweeping views of the redwood filled mountains to the southwest, and an expansive look at the South Bay area.

Alltrails link:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/castle-rocks-lower-loop?sh=db4ktm&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

Meet: at the enterance of the small lot off hwy 35 next to the roadside parking area, about 1000ft southeast of the main parking lot
https://maps.app.goo.gl/G9jsbMj9XUA411ju7?g_st=ac

Park Fee: There is no fee for roadside parking, but there is a fee if you choose to use Castle Rocks main lots, then walk to the meeting point.

Route: 6'5 miles, ~1100’ Elevation Gain as per Alltrails

Bring: Cameras for the epic views, good attitude, good vibes, NO politics. The SF Bay Area is full of diverse views, and we are proud of it. We are not here to speak badly of others views or push our own on others.

Water: At least 1-2 liters. Better hydrated and heavy than dehydrated and deadly.

Sturdy Footwear: Hiking shoes or boots with excellent traction are recommended.

Sun Protection: Much of this trail is fully exposed to the sun. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

Lunch: Bring your own lunch and snacks, both salty and sweet to keep your body fueled.

Forecast: Spring time weather, but always check forcast before leaving for any hike.

Cell phones: Assume no service. ALWAYS have downloaded offline navigatable maps, or paper maps.

Note: This is not a beginner hike. Please review the trail and difficulty level before signing up

Disclaimer: The organizer(s) are volunteers and not professional guides. By signing up for this trip, you are acknowledging that you are 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 hike organizers against any and all liability arising from your participation in this activity

★ We encourage our members to join the Sierra Club and support the Ventana Chapter, which is responsible for local outings, conservation, environmental education, leadership development and political activism. See "Who We Are" on our website: https://www.ventanasierraclub.org

★★★ Note: This is not an official Sierra Club outing. Everyone is welcome to join