Valley Loop Trail

The Valley Loop Hike is a crowd favorite in the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, so don’t be surprised if you’re sharing the trail with dozens of other adventurers. If you are hoping to avoid the traffic, consider a weekday adventure along the nature trail. Whether you choose to hike on the weekend or during the week, don’t be surprised if you encounter wildlife. Travel through the arid terrain and keep your eyes peeled for sunbathing snakes on the granite outcroppings. As you make your way along the exposed path, you will also be rewarded with panoramic mountain views.

Begin your journey around the Valley Loop Trail from the trailhead and parking lot. This circuit trail can be completed in either direction, but we prefer to hike this one counterclockwise. From the trailhead, turn right and track north on the Valley Loop Trail. Hike up the trail and over several stream crossings. Though bikers can adventure this trail, horseback riders and hikers alike, this loop is often trafficked by walkers. You will follow the Valley Loop Trail for the entirety of the hike, so ignore merging and intersecting routes. Eventually, the path will curve you west past a historic cabin.

Follow the route and navigate a set of switchbacks up to the ridge—trek south across the ridge, admiring the mountainous views. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you hike through the grassy terrain. Notice tree burn from the Cameron Peaks fire, and the path will eventually curve you back down to the trailhead and parking lot.