Ed Taylor Loop Trail

This hike can be done at any time of year. Hiking in winter and spring means that many varieties of wildflowers will be present, and the creek will have much more water. Summer and fall mean higher temperatures and drier conditions, but the hike is still a pleasant experience.

Begin the hike at the Arguello Drive entrance. The hike starts out with a descent through a forest of California bay laurels and oak trees. At the first trail junction, take a right, which continues downhill into a wooded canyon with a trickling creek. The moderate descent passes by a redwood grove, multiple rock outcrops, and small waterfalls/rapids. Hikers will be presented with several opportunities to go down to the creek bottom and feel the cool, refreshing water. In winter and spring, ferns, green grasses, and wildflowers will be present everywhere. In summer, blackberry vines can be found in moist areas. After about 0.7 miles, the trail does a gradual 180 degree turn, carrying hikers upward out of the creek canyon onto the side of a grassy ridge. Along this section of trail, bay views can be witnessed, as well as views of the entire canyon. Follow the trail the rest of the way uphill until you reach the trailhead.