Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail

"100 degree Hike -- Just Righr!"I had a chance to check out this trail today on a boiling hot day. At the end of my 10 mile hike, I was really dragging, and did not know why. (I like hot weather.)When I got back to the car I realized it was 100 degrees! Oh, I guess that explains it. So keep in mind that in the summer this area is boiling hot! If you do hike at that time, be sure to bring a ton of water. I brought 3 liters, which was just right for a 10 mile round trip. I did not see any potable water along the trail, so be sure to keep that in mind and bring your own water.There is a convenient staging area at the south end of Pardee dam, called Campo Seco. The day that I visited, the only other visitors there had large horse trailers. There is an outhouse at the staging area, and another one a few miles east on the trail, at a fascinating area called the Wildermuth House. This house is the top attraction on the hiking trail. Definitely worth a visit.Note that you need to also get a hiking permit. I got mine today from the party Lake Pardee Recreation Area. It's really very inexpensive. There is also a sign in kiosk at the staging area.On this my first visit, I went east from the staging area. For most of the trail, there's not a whole lot to see. After several miles however, the trail approaches close to the Mokelumne River, and the views are excellent.If you happen to go 5 miles east from the staging area there's a fascinating structure known as the Kiln. It's actually made out of bricks and is just slightly off the trail. One can actually crawl inside. I posted some photos of the kiln.The Kiln marked by further most point on my hike today. From there I returned to the staging area. Including some extra time for finding geocaches, my round trip to the killed was about 10.5 miles.So I'm glad I made this hike, but in the future I think I will visit on a cooler day.

What can you say, this is a hidden jewel. We just found this trail system. Very well maintained and a family pass is 10 per year. Several access points allow you to get there easily. Difficulty levels are from easy to difficult all are accurately marked on the maps. We have tried several segments and can't wait for the next. Grab a pack and good shoes head out in the morning to enjoy beautiful views and a quite retreat from the craziness of life. You really must try this EBMUD system, good information on their website also where you purchase your pass as well. See you on the trails!