Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Trip 68
ALDER CREEK CAMP TO VILLA CREEK CAMP
LENGTH AND TYPE: 4.2-mile out-and-back, 4.7-mile point-to-point (Highway 1), or 8.4-mile point-to-
point (Salmon Creek Station)
RATING: Strenuous
TRAIL CONDITION: Passable, poison oak
HIGHLIGHTS: Pause for unobstructed coastal views as you follow glassy creeks through peaceful groves
of alders and redwoods.
TO REACH THE TRAILHEAD:
Willow Creek Road is on the east side of Highway 1, 8
miles south of Nacimiento-Fergusson Road, 62 miles south of Carmel, a mile north of
Gorda, and 8.4 miles north of the southern Buckeye Trailhead at the abandoned Sal-
mon Creek Station.
Climb this rugged dirt road about 7 miles to an unmarked four-way junction and
stay straight on the right fork, which makes a steep 1.5 mile descent into the Alder
Creek drainage. The road ends at Alder Creek Camp, though it may be impassable dur-
ing heavy winter rains. In summer it's a dry, dusty road. The signed northern Buckeye
Trailhead lies on the north bank, 100 feet downstream from the main campsite.
TRIP SUMMARY:
This route offers several day-hike or overnight options, including:
(1) 4.2 miles round-trip to Villa Creek Camp; (2) 4.7 miles point-to-point from Alder
Creek Camp to Highway 1 via the Buckeye and Cruikshank Trails; and (3) 8.4 miles
point-to-point to Salmon Creek Station via the Buckeye Trail. If you can arrange
a shuttle vehicle, consider the point-to-point treks, which offer unobstructed coastal
views.
This hike is best enjoyed in spring and fall, when fog banks roll well offshore.
Colorful spring wildflowers paint hillside oak savannas, while in fall, creekside alders
and maples flash vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. Seriously consider wearing pants
on this hike to protect against ubiquitous poison oak and ticks.
