Vacas Palomas Damian Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Fishing · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

An excellent lollipop loop through high elevation rolling hills and alpine meadows.

The trailhead is a day use area that comes with a $5 fee that must be paid using the rec.gov app. We did not know this until we were there and did not have service to download the app or pay... and we were not ticketed. There is also ample free parking in numerous camp sites in all directions from the day use lot. The lot has pit toilets and trash cans, but no running water.

This route links up three high elevation trails in the San Pedro Parks Wilderness. It is recommended to take this lollipop clockwise to complete the steeper section first and enjoy the gentle downhill all the way home. On this trail you'll pass the San Geogorio reservoir and numerous small creeks. Enjoy running through high alpine meadows and rolling hills, passing the occasional horseback rider, fisherman, or cow.

The trails were generally very well-maintained and clear, with the segment on the Damian Trail being the only section with bits of vegetation obscuring the trail and a few downed trees.

In late June 2026 there was some flowing water in the Rio Vacas, however it seemed that earlier in the season and/or in a bigger snow year there may be many more water opportunities in small creeks. Meadows may be flooded in the spring.

Mesic meadow flora, engelman's spruce forest, cows.