Dolason Prairie Trail
Hike a cross-section of the park from a ridge top to a creek bed, sampling everything in between.
Plan Around Dolason Prairie Trail
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Dolason Prairie Trail Details
Starting at the top of Redwood Creek Valley, the Dolason Trail descends through an incredible array of ecosystems before reaching its bottom at Redwood Creek, 2,300 feet lower than your starting point. Along the way, wander through open prairie with magnificent views, descend gently through dry upland forests, and drop to the mistier, lusher riparian area along the wide gravel creek bed. You will be hiking downhill for the entire first half and uphill for the entire second half, so keep that in mind when planning. Towards the bottom of the hike you will actually turn left onto the Emerald Ridge Trail in order to reach the creek. Re-trace your steps to return to your starting point. The marked trailhead for the Dolason Prairie Trail is off Bald Hills Road, 11 miles after it turns off Highway 101. However, it can also be accessed from the Tall Trees Grove Trail and Redwood Creek Trail (or combined with these for a longer outing).
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
10.4 miles
Estimated time
7 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Dolason Prairie Trail
Compare nearby parks around Dolason Prairie Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Dolason Prairie Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Dolason Prairie Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Dolason Prairie
Dolason Prairie is the trailhead for the Dolason Prairie Trail and has a picnic area and restrooms.
0.0 mi away
Dolason Prairie
Dolason Prairie is the trailhead for the Dolason Prairie Trail and has a picnic area and restrooms.
4.2 mi away
Redwood Creek Overlook
This overlook has views of the river as well as the Pacific Ocean.
7.6 mi away
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
One of the most popular trails in the park, the Lady Bird Johnson Trail is a great quick hike if you're short on time.
