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John Puccinelli

I spent two days, and extended the loop further south. With a backcountry permit, parking is required at Jay camp, just a short walk to headquarters. I was able to enjoy the redwood loop both at the beginning and the end of the trip. Day one went up skyline, then hollow tree trail, circled around to Sunset Camp. Great location to set up the tent then enjoy all the remaining daylight at the falls along west berry creek. Then day two takes you by the falls again, soaking in the morning sunlight of the trails. I continued to Berry Creek falls and stopped for breakfast. Had the place to myself on Tuesday morning. Plan to spend all the time you can along this trail, every step is time worthwhile. I then continued south on skyline, took McCrary Ridge up, then Howard King to bring me back. McCrary is a 1,700 ft climb in 3 miles, and exposed for a good portion, be prepared. Ocean views along most of the trail. In all, I extended the total to about 20 miles with about 4,000 ft. Great alternative to the full Skyline to Sea if you are limited on time or don’t want to coordinate a ride.

Great spot and challenging to get up to the falls. Took me a while to find someone that knew where they were going, and it's not a hike you want to do on your own. Park in the farthest lot, head uphill on the fire road. Three miles in, take a right on Marble Peak Trail. It leads down to the river with a footbridge across Arroyo Seco. Then put on your water shoes, leave any gear that cannot get wet. Head up river. The first quarter mile you can stay out of the water, but then you're swimming. Canyon walls are steep and get narrow at times. About a mile up, there are ropes to help climb up over the falls. Be aware of the temps and time, it can get surprisingly cold when you're in and out of the water trying to make your way up and downstream.