Land of Medicine Buddha/Upper Nisene Marks Fusion Hike (Challenging)

** IMPORTANT! **
**PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION!**

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 double our pleasure by combining Land of Medicine Buddha and Upper Nisene Marks with a double lollypop loop hike. We'll start in Land of Medicine Buddha (LOMB )and head up one side of the LOMB Loop Trail. At the top of the loop we will turn onto the Connector Trail to Upper Nisene Marks West Ridge Trail. We'll head up West Ridge to Big Stump Gap Trail/Ridge Connector Trail Loop. Then back onto West Ridge and the connector back to LOMB. We'll then head down the other side of the LOMB Loop Trail. Here's our trail route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/the-medicine-buddha-loop-trail-0a348ed

Significant inclines and declines and mileage render this a "Challenging" hike, one suitable for those in good hiking condition. See photo below. But it's a fun hike through consistently beautiful deep forest terrain. No major obstacles.

Those who would like a shorter version can do a hike of just LOMB Loop Trail, self-guided 2nd half. Total 6 miles.
Those who would like a longer hike - we can add on more of Nisene Marks.

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

Length: 10+ miles Level of difficulty: Challenging
Elevation gain: 1660 feet Hiking time: 4-5 hours

Dogs are allowed on the LOMB trails but not on the Nisene Marks trails

Beginning January 16, 2026, Land of Medicine Buddha will charge a $20 entrance fee per car and the gate will be open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Walking onto the land and parking on Prescott Road is prohibited.
Let's meet in the parking lot of the (Congressional Church of Soquel) White Church at corner of Soquel Drive and Center Street and carpool in.

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 :)