John McLaren Park Loop Hike

Those seeking a short, easy-going outdoor adventure near the city’s center will enjoy this urban excursion. The John McLaren Park Loop Hike is also great for those with dogs, as there are even sections where your four-legged friend can go off-leash. Escape the busyness of the city and reconnect with nature as you explore the greenspace. We encourage the use of the trail GPS as sections of this route are poorly signposted.

Setting out from the trailhead, the John McLaren Park Loop tracks northwest to an intersection with the Philosopher’s Way. Here, veer left onto the path, meandering through mixed forestlands adorned with lush undergrowth. Continue west, diverging from the Philosopher’s Way to the Upper Reservoir. Wander along the banks of the reservoir, hopping off the shoreline path at the Redwood Grove.

Admire the beauty of the towering redwoods as you travel east to the playground, reconnecting with the Philosopher’s Way. Eventually, you will be delivered back to the initial intersection you confronted after departing the trailhead. From here, retrace your steps along the path back to the trailhead.