Near Merry-Go-Round Loop
Dave and Su on Sprig Trail.
Near Merry-Go-Round Loop
Hiking the Sprig Trail
Near Merry-Go-Round Loop
Taylor and his amazing jacket.
Near Merry-Go-Round Loop
Surrounding forested hills and meadows to the north, high on Merry-Go-Round Trail.
Near Merry-Go-Round Loop
High on Merry-Go-Round Trail, looking east.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Merry-Go-Round Loop

4.6 (7 Ratings)
A short but pleasant loop leading hikers into a thick forest of redwoods, seasonal creeks, and hardwoods.
3.9
mi
Distance
853
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFamily FriendlyRiver/CreekSpringViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.91mi
Distance
853ft
Elevation Gain
853ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
1,288ft
High Point
492ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
From the Sprig Lake entrance trailhead, go through the horse trailer parking area to get to the start of the trail. Stay to the right at the split to start your hike on the Merry-Go-Round Trail for a total of 1.5 miles of a steady and sometimes steep climb. The going will be well-worthwhile as you'll be shaded by towering trees. Turn left on Tie Camp Trail and go 1.1 miles. This part of the trail goes through a really beautiful section of redwoods. Take in the shade and the beautiful views. Finally, turn left on the Ridge Trail and go 0.6 of a mile. This trail is a fairly nondescript descent and is more of a connector than a destination trail. This will join the Merry-Go-Round Trail where you go 0.2 miles to get back to the trailhead.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
John Cody