Craig Canyon-Thompson Canyon Loop

Follow the Bear Creek Trail south from the parking area at Cowboy Camp. The trail follows the east side of Bear Creek for about a mile to the crossing. Find a suitable/safe place to cross the creek and continue on the west side. About 0.1 mile after crossing Bear Creek, a choice can be made to head left or right. Staying left, the trail continues through the meadow and eventually starts the climb into the hills. The trail is easy to follow for 2 miles to the top of the ridge. There are two climbs along this leg. The first is short, while the second is a long, steep climb. At the top of the ridge, the trail intersects with many other trails--take the trail to the right. Follow the trail for 2 miles (two trails will intersect from the left--always stay to the right) to Thompson Canyon Trail. This intersection is near a stream crossing (you may have to look back over your right shoulder to see the sign pointing to Cowboy Camp) and climbs through an area that was burned in 2015. At the top of the hill, continue to the left. This section is very steep and can be slippery with recent rain (this is a good reason to go left at the beginning). Follow the well defined trail back to the meadow on the west side of Bear Creek (always taking the trail to the right).

This area was ranched previously, and evidence is still visible throughout the hike.