Ridgeline Loop

Of the several hikes inside Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, the Ridgeline Loop Trail tends to stand apart from the others in that it has a separate trailhead and is the only trail that weaves through the park's natural environment without passing any of its historical features. At a length of 1.6 miles, it begins by descending quickly down to Willow Creek and a small wooden bridge over the cool water. From here, it parallels the creek before splitting with the Riparian Loop Trail and heading up into the juniper forest on the landscape's ridgeline. All of the trail's wide views are along the creek. Once it hits the juniper climb, the trail tends to be boxed in by the stout groves of trees. While hardly scenic, it is also likely that hikers will be able cover its course without encountering a single other person. The trail soon drops to the south fork of Willow Creek and leaves the shade for the dry high desert environment. The beginning and ending portion of the trail are along the Riparian Loop Trail, and hikers looking add some distance and scenery to their hike can consider following the Riparian Loop as well. There are no amenities of any kind at the trailhead, though vault toilets, park pay stations and water are located in the park's day-use area and campground en route to the Ridgeline Loop Trailhead. Though it may not be incredibly scenic, the this trail provides the opportunity to hike into the high desert landscape and feel far away from anyone else.