Stebbins Cold Canyon Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

A challenging trail close to Davis with a great view of Lake Berryessa.

A major fire in early 2015 led to moving the trailhead and trail reroutes. Respect that this is a nature reserve (and enjoy the amazing habitats it protects). Observe the revegetation signs and step around covered areas next to the trail. Do not attempt the tunnels if any water is present in them, and consider bringing a light source for them even during daylight. Be off the trails by dark, since they are closed from sunset to sunrise.

A fine trail running route, though mind your step on the steeper grades as you would anywhere.

Park at the new expanded 2016 trailhead, with its convenient port-a-potty. This is a bit north of where it used to be, adding a short, fairly level flat extension to the Homestead Trail. Use the trailhead registration box just past the parking lot. From here, pass through the tunnels under the highway, unless there is any water present (then turn around and call it a day).

The next trail junction past the tunnels shows the the start of the Blue Ridge Loop to the right. Here, there is a steep, 1.6-mile climb to the top of the ridge line. From there, you continue along the top of the ridge line. Another 1.5 miles along the ridge line, there is a junction where you can continue onto Annie's Rock or turn left and head down into the valley floor via the Homestead Trail and then back to the start.

Check the reserve's website for other current information on closures.

Poison oak abounds.