Conifer Trail

The trail begins on the southwest corner of the wild animal exhibit, just beyond the arboretum. It is marked with a small post. The first junction occurs roughly 0.1 miles into the route; the Conifer Trail branches to the right, the Exercise Trail to the left. The two trails connect at the south end of the park, enabling hikers to make a loop if they're so inclined. After the junction (veering right to stay on the Conifer Trail), the route meanders up a deceptive grade through tight switchbacks in the pine forest. The route is wide and well maintained, but the grassy footing, switchbacks, and steady uphill climb will slow one's pace surprisingly significantly. At around 0.3 miles, the route crosses the firebreak (a large, less often mowed section) and a small bridge before wandering into the "newer" plantation. The soft bed of pine needles makes the hiking through here quite a treat before the trail turns north (left) and gets back into the grassy stuff. It follows a shallow ravine before arriving back at the firebreak, and connecting to the Exercise Trail.