Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Trip 49
PINE VALLEY
LENGTH AND TYPE: 12-mile out-and-back
RATING: Moderate
TRAIL CONDITION: Passable to difficult, poison oak
HIGHLIGHTS: Tall ponderosas amid an open meadow, ancient sandstone cliffs, buttes, and boulders, and
Pine Falls, which cascades 50 feet into an emerald swimming hole
TO REACH THE TRAILHEAD:
Park at the large turnout on Tassajara Road across from
China Camp. The trailhead is on the camp side of the road, 100 feet south of the park-
ing lot and 150 feet south of the camp entrance. The trail begins on a saddle above
China Camp. It is marked, though encroaching brush often obscures the sign. There's
no water at the trailhead.
TRIP SUMMARY:
This trail leads past old-growth pine forests, waterfall oases that shel-
ter deep swimming holes, and wildflower-strewn meadows that remind one of the Si-
erras. Naturally, this is a popular year-round day hike, so it's best to avoid it during
major holidays. Though the valley lies within day-hike range, allow at least six hours
for the round-trip to enjoy the scenery or visit Pine Falls for a refreshing swim. The
route is ideal in spring and fall, as temperatures are moderate and storms infrequent.
Summer temps can reach the upper 90s Fahrenheit, and flies and mosquitoes pose a
nuisance. Winter temps can dip below freezing, and snow is common above 4000 feet.
If your timing is perfect, however, between winter storms the valley can hit the upper
60s Fahrenheit, and you'll likely have the valley all to yourself.
