Button Rock Mountain Lollipop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Geological Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Head up and around the namesake mountain for Button Rock Preserve with access from the Johnny Park/Coulson Gulch trailhead.

There are a plethora of options for side trails and exploration that can lead to confusion without a map of some sort.

Watch out for mountain bikers and the occasional lost dirt bike. One is more likely to hear them before seeing them.

Starting from the Coulson Gulch Trailhead near Johnny Park Road, climb up the hill to the east parallel to the Forest Service road. Passing the first campsite, enjoy singletrack following the north edge of the hill. As the trail heads down to the saddle, be careful not to accidentally veer north down the slope--it will take you back to Big Elk Road, and require a climb back up.

You'll have to use the last section of FS 118.1 for a short bit, but quickly the singletrack trail resumes again. Passing the last campsite, the uphill begins again as well. Nearing the 2-mile mark, you'll make a right to begin up the switchbacking trail up to the north side of the mountain.

From there, pick a direction and loop! There is a fantastic overlook at the south end that is well worth a visit.

Finishing up your loop, head back the way you came. Or, head east to the Danny Boy Loop for more singletrack goodness!

Wildflowers and rabbits, mostly.