Happy Trails: Exciting Updates to the California Loop
By Ian Walsh, Natural Lands Manager
Exciting updates are underway on the California Trail to enhance your hiking experience and ensure safe and enjoyable outings for everyone. Here’s what you can look forward to:
A Shady Upgrade
Say goodbye to the hot and dusty section of the trail! Nearly a quarter-mile of the California Trail loop has been rerouted from the open agricultural field to the cool shade of the tree line. This means more pleasant hiking on those sweltering summer days. The former field path has been transformed into a gravel access road for work vehicles, keeping the trails more peaceful for visitors.
New Footbridge for Safer Access
Our team will also be installing an additional pedestrian footbridge to improve safety and convenience. This bridge will span Fault Creek at the far north end of the agricultural field at the intersection with Willow Road, eliminating the need for pedestrians to walk along the road to access the trail. Safer and simpler access for everyone!
Muddy No More
If you’ve ever slogged through a muddy section of the trail, you’ll love this update. A 200-foot stretch of seasonally muddy trail on the north half of the California Loop is getting widened and gravelled early this spring. No more puddles or squelching shoes! This upgrade will also make it easier for strollers and guests with mobility challenges to navigate the path up to Red’s Barn.
Ongoing Improvements
We’re making regular upgrades to the trail tread and widening paths to accommodate increased foot traffic. These improvements ensure the California Trail remains a favorite spot for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Come explore the refreshed California Trail soon—it’s better than ever! Winter is the best time to see newts, banana slugs, mushrooms, and gorgeous green mosses.