Ridge Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views

Be ready for sustained climbs and watch your step in a few of the rougher sections. The Ridge Trail has a few rock sections that prompts your attention, particularly on the downhill.

Like the name implies, the Ridge Trail climbs along the ridgeline as it travels from the mid-mountain parking area to the Pickering Viewpoint at the summit. From the bottom, look for the trail near the start of Bonnie and Clyde's. The comfortable singletrack immediately starts to ascend into a cheerful forest with scattered clumps of holly.

About a quarter of the way up, runners will pass a single maple tree with over ten trunks growing from the base. Get ready, because the trail heads into the steepest section next, which includes a small chute scattered with rocks.

Afterward, the grade continues steadily as the trail winds up through a shaded forest and scattered patches of salal. Avoid the assortment of spur trails by always staying on the clearest path. As runners keep ascending, the occasional rock face or boulder, and plenty of undemanding rocks and roots, keep things interesting until the trail levels out at a low sandstone shelf near a viewpoint through the trees. The top of the trail exits the woods past a chain-link-fenced radio installation to end at the southeast corner of the summit clearing.

In the reverse, the Ridge Trail is an enjoyable descent with a few steep spots where runners should watch their step.