Gold Ridge Trail
Table of contents
Route Description for Gold Ridge Trail
The Gold Ridge Trail is a real treat, with wide-open views and little traffic. For a route that gets so few hikers, it’s remarkably well-maintained and well signed, so the trek out is more enjoyable than you might expect. It’s a hard hike with a solid elevation profile, so bring more water than you think you’ll need and avoid hiking this route in the heat of summer.
There are dispersed camping sites along this route you can use to make a multi-day trip out of this route.
From the trailhead, set out and immediately keep left onto Gold Ridge Trail #47. Go through the gate a mile and a half in. The steepest section of the trail occurs between 2.7 km and 4.5 km, but be prepared to still feel like you’re climbing outside of those points, too. You’ll hike through grasslands initially, then into a burn area from many years ago. Continue through a corridor of manzanita and chaparral.
The trail relaxes a bit near the top, where you can truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. From the turnaround point, you’ll retrace your steps to the trailhead.
Getting to the Gold Ridge Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Gold Ridge Trail is near the junction of routes 87 and 188.Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Various backcountry
When to do:
October-May
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Good
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Gold Ridge Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!