Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Trip 72
SALMON CREEK STATION TO BUCKEYE CAMP
LENGTH AND TYPE: 6.8-mile out-and-back, 7.9-mile point-to-point (Cruikshank Trailhead), or
8.4-mile point-to-point (Alder Creek Camp)
RATING: Strenuous
TRAIL CONDITION: Difficult, poison oak
HIGHLIGHTS: Another route to spectacular Buckeye Meadow, whose spacious grasslands burst forth
with new life in spring
TO REACH THE TRAILHEAD:
The signed Buckeye Trailhead is at the abandoned Sal-
mon Creek Station, 100 yards north of a tight bend in Highway 1, 8 miles south of
Gorda, and 1.5 miles north of the posted San Luis Obispo County line. Park at the sta-
tion. The trailhead is immediately west of the parking area. There are no facilities or
water at the trailhead.
TRIP SUMMARY:
The Buckeye Trail offers some of the best day-hike and overnight
options in the Silver Peak Wilderness. If you can arrange a shuttle vehicle, point-
to-point trips include: (1) 1.5 miles to Soda Springs Trailhead via the Buckeye and
Soda Springs Trails; (2) 7.9 miles to the Cruikshank Trailhead via the Buckeye and
Cruikshank Trails; and (3) 8.4 miles to Alder Creek Camp via the Buckeye Trail.
Regardless of your itinerary, Buckeye Camp is a highlight. Perched amid an open
meadow, the camp is roomy enough for a group outing.
Unfortunately, most of the trail beats through fast-growing coastal brush that each
year aggressively overruns the trail. Those susceptible to poison oak should think
twice, as this toxic plant is common along the coastal slopes.
The best time to hike the trail is between October and May, when fog banks roll
well offshore, migrating gray whales spout within sight of land, and the meadows
bloom anew. However, the wet months (November through April) also bring an on-
slaught of ticks, which wait alongside trails for unwary passersby. Wear light-colored
pants and a long-sleeved shirt to help spot them. Though not breathable, rain pants or
nylon pants may thwart these pesky hitchhikers altogether.
Summer is less desirable, as fog often obscures coastal views and warmer temper-
atures (usually above 70°F) bring an onslaught of nagging flies that persist through late
fall.
