Preserve Loop Trail

PRESERVE LOOP TRAIL

The Preserve Loop offers true solitude and beauty. Its grassy meadows and spacious stands of Ponderosa pine complement expansive views of Goat Mountain and the lower Preserve.

PARKING: The Preserve Trailhead parking area is 1.25 miles from the main entrance. AWD or 4x4 vehicle required for access.

From the entrance off of Antoine Creek Road, drive 3/4 mile to the Upper Junction. You will stay left at the Lower Junction, following signs to the Preserve, and pass the Aspen grove on your right.

Continue another half mile along the Preserve road passing the picnic and fire pit area on your right. The Preserve trailhead is located up the hill on your left.

ROUTE: From the Preserve trailhead, travel north along the Upper Loop trail for a tenth of a mile. Follow the Preserve Loop sign to the left.

Continue two tenths of a mile, crossing the north road, continuing up the hill, and passing the return of the Preserve Loop on your right. Finally, arrive at the Lower Knoll. The views to the south go on forever. You are over a 1000’ above the Antoine Creek county road.

Follow the trail down and into a broad Ponderosa-filled bowl and back up the other side. At the top of the ridge, you will encounter The Big Pine.

In warmer months, Ponderosa bark gives off the wonderful scent of vanilla. Take a big whiff as you pass.

Continue a shy half-mile up the ridge line and across the Northern Bench. Here you are at the highest point in the Preserve with views of the Ponderosa bowl below.

Travel along the bench and down the Rolling Ridge to the east. Before arriving at the Ridge, you will weave briefly down the bottom of a small ravine and traverse up and out the other side.

Finally, from the Rolling Ridge, continue to the south before finishing the Preserve Loop. Follow the trail back to the Preserve Trailhead.

MORE TRAILS: LOWER LOOP • UPPER LOOP