Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
second home. Regardless, this is a beautiful spot for a picnic, atop a golden hilltop
that offers sweeping views of the coast.
When rested, you can return the way you came or finish the loop via the
Fire
Road,
a 2.2-mile descent to
Vista Point
on Highway 1, a mile north of Partington
Creek Bridge. From the Tin House, head back uphill 0.2 mile to the Tan Bark Trail
junction
(3.5 miles, 1980'), then turn north to descend the canyon's east side. Over the
next 0.6 mile the steep road switchbacks in the shade of tanoaks and redwoods. After
1.4 miles the road reaches a prominent
ridge
(4.7 miles, 1030'), with excellent views
across steep, narrow
Partington Canyon.
Leaving the shade, the road emerges amid
fragrant coastal scrub that flaunts colorful wildflowers in the spring, when abundant
lupines, golden yarrow, and poppies paint the hillsides in yellow, purple, and orange
hues.
The coastal views continue to impress as you descend the Fire Road, weaving
past gullies to a minor spring flanked by redwoods and lush ferns. It's a 200-foot jaunt
from here to the Fire Road gate and Highway 1.
If you parked at Vista Point, cross the highway and walk 200 feet north to the
lot. If you parked at Partington Creek Bridge, continue walking a mile north on High-
way 1. Use caution, especially when walking with children, as the shoulder narrows
in places.
