Shepard Creek

Dogs Unknown

Despite the line on the map, I prefer to start this trail on Bella Vista drive. You can park on the side of the road where the trail intersects.

The trail starts off steep and then drops down into the canyon and follows the creek for bit. Once it crosses Sheppard Creek you're committed to the north side where the trail is less traveled and begins to disappear. There are soda can tree markers that help with trail finding on the way up, but use caution as they are not visible on the return down and with the trail being rarely used it's possible to get off course. Use extreme caution when scrambling up the rocky section about half way up to the ridge, after that the trail markers continue to wind near the tree line following game trails or no trail at all. Eventually you'll make your way to gain elevation to the north ridge of the canyon. Upon doing so, you easily connect up with the Wolverine trail. If you choose to do so, following Wolverine to the east will land you on the final ascent of dirt road to reach the Francis Peak Radar Towers.