Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
From the ridge, you'll veer right into the Villa Creek drainage, forging briefly
through dense thickets of chaparral, primarily ceanothus. The trail abruptly switch-
backs right and reenters the Alder Creek drainage, then heads toward a conspicuous
serpentine outcrop at the divide.
From the divide, the trail skirts the western edge of open slopes 0.6 mile and
drops past a seeping spring that supports thriving willows and exotic pampas grass.
Onward, past a cluster of fragrant bays and a dry wash, the trail steepens on its final
descent to the banks of Villa Creek. You'll emerge at
Villa Creek Camp
(2.1 miles,
1050), perched atop a small creekside bench.
There's room for up to three small tents in the shade of redwoods beside the year-
round creek. You'll also find a table and a fire ring. In summer, the shade offers wel-
come respite from the sun-drenched upper canyon. During the wet season, colorful
fungi sprout from the lush forest floor, though the camp may be damp and cold.
