Dragoon Gulch Trail
As its name would suggest, the Dragoon Gulch Trail offers family, friends, kids, and furry companions an exhilirating quest through the oak woodlands situated in the heart of Sonora, California. The sum of the Dragoon Gulch Trail extends just beyond 3 miles--making it a pawpular place to walk the dog, take some paws out in nature, or just enjoy green scenery. Open year-round, the trail welcomes visitors from all over to take advantage of Sonora's beautiful landscape. The trails that make up the Dragoon Gulch Trail all vary in both length and difficulty, offering hikers a diverse range of casual strolling or more challenging climbs.
There are two trailhead accesses for the Dragoon Gulch Trail, so pay attention to which one you'd like to begin your journey at. Perhaps the most pawpular entry point is at Woods Creek Park; which doubles as both a trailhead and family-friendly park with convenient amenities such as picnic benches, restrooms, and a playground. The second trailhead is the Alpine Trailhead which provides ADA trail access and is located off Alpine Lane, a few minutes drive from Historic Downtown Sonora. This trailhead only offers parking at the end of the street. You will see a gate to the trailhead which gets locked at dark, so make sure you're back in time!
The Dragoon Gulch Trail is an all-around pawtastic trail, thanks to its babbling seasonal creek and vistas that give visitors jaw-dropping views of Sonora and its surrounding mountain tops. Pets will love exploring Mother Lode's oak woodlands, which offer plenty of shade from the relenting heat. Trail benches are scattered along the trail if you'd like to stop and enjoy a picnic with your pup. Most of the hike offers gentle slopes, with strenuous climbs at times. Practice trail etiquette by picking up after your pup's waste, packing out what you pack in, no smoking, and protecting wildlife and vegetation.
The Dragoon Gulch Trail is a favorite among Sonora residents and out-of-town travelers looking for a casual stroll, bike ride, or hike in the woods! Don't forget to pick up or download a map of the trail before you go!
