Stewart, Coast, and Greenpicker Loop

The loop typically starts from the Five Brooks Trailhead. This is a common access point for trails in the area, offering ample parking.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on most trails within Point Reyes National Seashore, including this loop. It's always best to check the official park regulations before planning your visit.

The trail is largely shaded, making it a good option even on warmer days. However, be aware that the Greenpicker Trail section can become a slippery mudslide after even an hour of rain. Therefore, drier seasons are generally preferable, or ensure you check recent weather conditions.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Point Reyes National Seashore, including the Stewart, Coast, and Greenpicker Loop. However, always check the official National Park Service website for any updates or specific regulations.

The terrain is varied, featuring gravel and dirt paths. Sections like the Stewart Trail are wide, former fire roads, often gravelly. Other parts, such as Alamea and Old Out Road, are narrower dirt paths weaving through the forest. Horse traffic is common on some sections, which can lead to dusty conditions.

Yes, the Greenpicker Trail, while beautiful, is known to quickly turn into a slippery mudslide after even a short period of rain. It's advisable to avoid this section during wet conditions or be prepared for very muddy and challenging footing.

You'll experience a mostly shaded route through rich, mixed evergreen forests. Highlights include expansive ocean views for over a mile along the Coast and Stewart trails, vistas of Wildcat Camp, and the unique Arch Rock. The Greenpicker Trail is particularly noted for its beautiful filtered light through the Douglas firs.

The area is abundant with plant life, including California Spikenard. It's also a good spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for unique sightings like the ingeniously camouflaged burrows of the California Turret Spider, especially along the Stewart Trail.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You will jog along parts of the ADT - California - T - Seg 9, Bear Valley Trail, Stewart Trail, Greenpicker Trail, Coast Trail, Glen Camp Loop, Glen Trail, Ridge Trail, Alamea Trail, Coast Glen Spur, Rift Zone Trail, Arch Rock Trail, Baldy Trail, Horse Camp Road, and Olema Valley Trail.

This loop is rated as difficult for jogging. It covers nearly 24 km (14.8 miles) with a significant elevation gain of over 770 meters (2,500 feet), including a gradual but intense uphill climb to Firtop. While some sections are downhill, the overall length and elevation changes make it a strenuous effort, best suited for experienced joggers.

Yes, the route offers a mostly shaded experience as it winds through rich, mixed evergreen forests of Douglas fir, oak, bay, and maple. This makes it a more comfortable option for jogging during warmer weather compared to exposed trails.

Yes, the Stewart Trail, being a former fire road, is wider and shared with both bikers and horseback riders. Other trails within the loop, such as Greenpicker, Alamea, and Old Out Road, are typically only for hiking and horses, so you should expect to encounter horses on these sections as well.