6.2 hr
Overview
From the lot, take the Coyote Ridge Trail to the first gate. This dirt fire road runs throughout the park and allows access to several trails in the park. After the gate, go right on Campground Trail and then at the bottom left on Valley Oak Trail. Valley Oak Trail is actually a doubletrack but has become singletrack in some areas. You'll pedal through the trees until the next intersection where you veer right onto Calaveras Trail. The Calaveras Trail parallels Coyote Lake with some great views. Watch for the thistle in the summer as it grows close in some areas.<br><br>This will take you all the way to a gravel road climb which is Harvey Bear Trail. This is the main road from the west side of the park to the east. It's mainly a gravel road that you can use to tie in several trails. From Harvey Bear Trail, ride up and over the ridge and down to Townsprings Trail which can see a lot of cattle use at times so be wary of the rocks that get kicked up. <br><br>You'll now drop down Townsprings Trail until you hit Willow Springs Trail, where you go left and up a short climb. It has some steep parts that have loose gravel, so be aware. At the next intersection go left and head down Rancho San Ysidro Trail. <br><br>At the bottom, go right and you are now on Savannah Trail. This trail has some great views of the valley. This will take you around and down to a bridge crossing before climbing back up and intersecting with Rancho San Ysidro Trail. Follow this and you'll then climb back up to Coyote Ridge Trail. A short drop down and go left where you'll again be on Valley Oak Trail. Just reverse your route from here back to the Mendoza Parking lot.
Trail Stats
22.5 km
329 m
328 m
121 m
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Photos
Nice view of San Martin from the Townsprings Trail.
Nice view of San Martin from the Townsprings Trail.
Deer at Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch.
Deer at Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch.
The view towards Coyote Lake.
The view towards Coyote Lake.
A scene from Coyote Lake.
A scene from Coyote Lake.