Jacks Peak County Park Large Loop

** IMPORTANT! **
**PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION SO THAT YOU ARE ADEQUATELY PREPARED AND COMFORTABLE WITH THE STATED LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY**

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 explore Jacks Peak County Park overlooking the spectacular Monterey Bay and Carmel Valley areas just a short drive off Highway 1 in Monterey. The trails wind through cathedral-like forests revealing breathtaking ridge top vistas on clear days. Jacks Peak Park is one of only 3 natural stands of Monterey Pine tree forests remaining in the United States!

Here is a link to our route (I also have two alternate shorter routes that can be taken if needed or desired): https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/earl-moser-madrone-rhus-iris-coffeeberry-pine-sage-loop-d464b5a

Length: 9-10 miles Elevation Gain: 1740 ft Route Type: Lollypop
Hike Time: 4-5 hours
Effort: challenging (see Photo below)

We’ll be meeting at the trailhead at 9:20 and start our hike at 9:30 sharp.

Bring water (2+ liters), snacks, tick/poison oak protection, hiking boots with good tread, any anticipated first aid needs and your love for adventure!

Good news and good news: Dogs are allowed! Bicycles are not :)

We'll be accessing the park via an unmarked trailhead along Olmstead Road. This trail provides a nice steep climb to get our hearts pumping. Although some trails are single file most are wide and all are well-groomed and well-marked. Trail surface is a comfortable packed earth and leaves. Expect open exposure at vista points and possibly dappled sun throughout. So be prepared with sun protection. Clean bathrooms at our midway point.

Carpooling is recommended as parking spots are limited. We will be parking along Olmstead Road. It is a 50-60 minute drive from Soquel.

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 :)