West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop
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West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop
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The West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop is an awesome adventure that boasts another worldly experience. Wander through the enchanting woodlands, shaded by the lush canopy of the looming redwoods, and admire the beauty of the rainforest. We love this enchanting adventure and you will too.
Getting there
Access the West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop from the Prairie Creek Trailhead at the Prairie Creek Visitors Center off Newton B. Parkway.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | Year-round |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Circuit |
West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop
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West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop Description
The West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop explores the primeval temperate rainforests that are unrivaled in their beauty. The magical woodlands are sure to mesmerize you with the scenes of the enormous conifers, lush undergrowth, and wild mushrooms! Note it is usually pretty damp on this hike, so we encourage you to bring a raincoat! Additionally, you may run into Roosevelt Elk—if you do, be sure to keep your distance.
Embarking on your adventure from the trailhead, the West Ridge and Prairie Creek Loop follows the Prairie Creek Trail before merging left onto the Nature Trail. From here, you will be redirected north onto the West Ridge Trail. This path will lead you up a gradual incline through the forestlands. Marvel in the beauty and grandeur of the encompassing redwoods, keep right at the next intersection, and the path will eventually plunge back down to Prairie Creek.
At this point, you will encounter another junction; veer right onto the Prairie Creek Trail. Follow this path south along Prairie Creek, past the Corkscrew Tree, and back to the trailhead.
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