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Details

Distance

3.6 miles

Elevation Gain

800 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Fog-swept Douglas Fir, Redwoods, orchids and madrone trees lead to a unique mountain prairie overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Salt Point State Park, about 90 miles north of San Francisco, features rugged, windswept coastline and dramatic forests of cypress, pine and redwoods. The Central Trail is a great way to experience much of the inland portion of the park including a unique highland Prairie where elk graze and are hunted by mountain lions.

The Central Trailhead is located in the main park entrance near the Gerstle Campground and proceeds some 1.8 miles up to the Prairie, passing old mining equipment and water storage tanks along the way.

The trail can be connected to the North or South Trails for a loop, eventually leading back to the park entrance. 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Photography
Running
Hiking
Adult Beverages
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike the Salt Point Trail

Hike the North Trail to the Pygmy Forest

Camp at Stillwater Cove