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This loop is lightly trafficked and features a nice waterfall.


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Map Key

4.7

Miles

7.6

KM

65%

Runnable

1,823' 556 m

High

105' 32 m

Low

1,752' 534 m

Up

1,751' 534 m

Down

14%

Avg Grade (8°)

54%

Max Grade (28°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

This area has been affected by the the recent fires in Big Sur, the trail might be closed for some time.

Overview

A short and moderate loop trail that offers beautiful and diverse flora, cacti, redwoods, wildflowers, and an impressive view to the ocean from the hilltop.

Description

The Soberanes Canyon Loop is a 4.7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, nature trips, and birding and is accessible year-round. You'll climb your way up on the Soberanes Canyon Trail, and your return will be down the Rocky Ridge Trail.

The most spectacular part of the route is through the Soberanes Canyon where the trail is flanked on both sides by impressive redwoods. Once you leave the redwoods and get above treeline, it isn't the immediate scenery that captivates, but rather the panoramic views. These views are typically obscured facing west due to the blanket of fog and mist that unfolds over the coast. Turn your back 180 degrees and you are likely greeted by sunlit views of Carmel Valley.

Flora & Fauna

cacti, wildflowers, redwood

Shared By:

David Montero

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 16 votes

#858

Overall
  4.4 from 16 votes
5 Star
75%
4 Star
13%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
13%
Recommended Route Rankings

#138

in California

#858

Overall
212 Views Last Month
22,280 Since Sep 7, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

View looking back at the ocean from atop the scramble past the redwoods.
Dec 25, 2019 near Carmel-…, CA
Cacti on the first section of the canyon.
Sep 7, 2016 near Carmel-…, CA
Great views.
Nov 22, 2016 near Carmel-…, CA
The view from the top of the climb.
Sep 7, 2016 near Carmel-…, CA
The trail continues through the forest along the creek.
Sep 7, 2016 near Carmel-…, CA
Sunset hike.
Nov 22, 2016 near Carmel-…, CA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 95 days ago
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