Baldwin and Enchanted Loop Trails(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate loop trail in Wilder Ranch State Park. The Baldwin Loop trail heads North into the park (opposite the ocean). If you hike the loop clockwise the initial part of the trail goes along Baldwin Creek and a pretty wooded section before climbing into an open section. The Enchanted Loop Trail is at the top of the hill, descending into a very pretty, heavily wooded area that includes a good number of redwood trees.

Getting Started

There's a rough-dirt parking area on the ocean side of Highway 1 (at 36.970117,-122.119346). To get to the Baldwin Loop Trail, either go through the tunnel under Hwy 1 or, if the tunnel is flooded, you can cross the road and walk down the driveway on the opposite side to rejoin the trail.

The parking area is also used by surfers and there's a short trail to the Four Mile Beach.

Taking Children

Should be fine for children who are up for a six-mile hike. The trail is fairly rough. It's rocky along the Baldwin Loop and there are a lot of exposed roots and drop-offs on the Enchanted Loop.