Mule Ear Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

I could say it's more popular with bikes than hikers and runners, but only because I've seen on average 1 bike and no runners.

I hesitate to even put this here because it is so overlooked but I rarely see anyone on this trail. It's nice and shady but with great views on the upper sections. Run it with the Mule Shoe Trail to make a great loop.

At the start of this trail, and after coming back up to the road on Mule Shoe Trail, you'll hit a few switchbacks. There is a new cutoff trail that splits off to your right (north). It's fairly level heading to the parking for Mule Shoe and the end of this trail.

After passing the cutoff trail, you hit a lot of switchbacks heading up to the overlook - an optional out and back. The run down is shady again and this is the section that I've seen moose most frequently so keep an eye out. About 30 feet from the road and parking, you'll see the cutoff I mentioned earlier crossing your path. Turning left would take you to the Cutler Basin Trail up to Ben Lomond.

This might be more popular as a x-country ski trail than running/hiking trail because they get a fair amount of snow here.

Aspen, pine, and mule's ear in the spring.