Unlikely if you're making noise. Keep a 100-yard distance if you do. Avoid strong-smelling foods. Bears typically avoid noisy hikers.

Stay on the trail—getting lost here is a problem because cell coverage fails. Bring a map and compass. Practice navigation before you go. The trail is generally well-worn, but mushroom picking can pull you off course.

Dolason Prairie Trail - 10mi Strenuous Hike

Q: Can I hike this alone?

Legally yes. Safely? Only if you're experienced and tell someone your plan with a firm check-in time. Cell coverage fails completely. A twisted ankle on the descent means you're walking out yourself or waiting hours for rescue.

Q: What kind of water filter do I need?

A portable pump filter or squeeze filter for streams. Giardia is present in park waterways. Don't drink unfiltered creek water.

Q: Do I need trekking poles?

Not required, but highly recommended. Poles reduce knee stress on the 2,500-foot re-ascent by up to 25%. The descent is steep and poles help with balance on loose ground.

Distance

10 mi

Elevation Gain

5,000 ft

Est. Time

6–8 hours for fit hikers; 8–10 hours if you're slowing down for photos or recovery breaks

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late spring to early fall (June–September)

Overview

About This Trail

This is a 10-mile lung-buster that drops 2,500 feet from high Bald Hills meadows into the deep river valley of Redwood and Emerald Creeks, then demands you climb every foot back out. You'll pass a historic 19th-century barn and see the stark contrast between old-growth redwood groves and surrounding second-growth forests. This is serious terrain for fit hikers only—cell service fails, rescue is slow, and you've got to know your limits.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Trail Highlights

Drop into a deep river valley surrounded by ancient redwoods while observing forest recovery. Views of the historic barn and stark contrast between protected old-growth and harvested 1960s-70s timber. The elevation and fog-free location make this an exceptional night-sky viewing spot.

Insider Tips

• The descent into the valley is steeper than you expect—don't judge difficulty by the first mile. • The false summit at Mile 6 will fool you; the real payoff is the Redwood Creek overlook 0.5 miles further. • Bring trekking poles; they save your knees on the re-ascent. • Start early and finish before dark; headlamps are mandatory backup. • The historic barn is protected; look, don't disturb it.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring to early fall (June–September)

Hiking Tips

Carry minimum 2–3 liters of water; filter at creek sources.
Tighten your boots—the descent is relentless and loose ground is common.
Use a detailed map and trail guide; don't rely on phone GPS.
Make noise constantly for bears.
Stay on marked trail; off-trail creates erosion and gets hikers lost.
Pets prohibited—it's law.
Check weather before you go; afternoon thunderstorms are possible.

Family Info

Not suitable for young children. The 10-mile distance, 5,000-foot elevation change, and steep drop-offs exceed most family comfort. Teenagers (14+) who are fit and experienced hikers can manage it with parental supervision and strict trail discipline.

What Hikers Say

Hikers report this is a serious physical challenge. Most say the 2,500-foot descent is harder on the knees than expected on the re-ascent. The contrast between old-growth and logged forests, plus the remoteness, draws experienced hikers back.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 10 miles

Elevation Gain: 5,000 ft

Duration: 6–8 hours for fit hikers; 8–10 hours if you're slowing down for photos or recovery breaks

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Dirt and roots. Steep grades with loose sections. Muddy after rain.

Getting There

Trailhead: Bald Hills Road

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required.

Fees: No entrance fee. America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) accepted.

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Dogs: false

Biking: false

Trail Markers: Well-worn trail with basic blazes, but bring a map. NPS recommends a detailed trail guide; online maps are unreliable here.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Filter at Redwood Creek and Emerald Creek mid-trail. Start with full containers—the initial climb offers no water.

Shade: Mixed. High prairie is sun-exposed; redwood valleys provide dense shade.

Cell Service: false

Hazards:

The 2,500-foot descent is unforgiving—one slip and you're sliding. Bears are confirmed in the area; maintain 100-yard distance. Cell coverage fails completely; you're on your own for rescue. Creek crossings are slippery when wet. Fog obscures the trail and views, especially October–May.

Emergency: No cell coverage. Inform someone of your trip plan and expected return time. Contact park headquarters at https://www.nps.gov/redw/index.htm for pre-trip details.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Light to moderate

Peak Times: Weekends and July–August see higher traffic, but this remote, strenuous route keeps casual hikers away.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty, steep, and muddy in spots. Not accessible to those with mobility limitations. Requires strong legs and confidence on steep descents.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Trailhead has parking, picnic table, vault toilet. Nearest park visitor facilities unknown; nearest town services likely 25+ miles away.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is 10 miles too far for me?

Honest answer: distance is secondary here—the 5,000 feet of elevation is the real test. If you can climb 5,000 feet in a day without stopping constantly, the mileage is doable. Fit hikers finish in 6–8 hours. If uncertain, train on a 3,000-foot climb first.

Can I hike this alone?

What kind of water filter do I need?

Will I see bears?

What if I get lost?

Do I need trekking poles?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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