Are dogs allowed on Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop?

No, Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop?

Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop is rated difficult. It is 8.6 miles long with 2,674 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop suitable for kids?

Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

DifficultLoop

California

Boyscout and Cerro Alto Loop

Atascadero, California

8.6 mi

Distance

2,674 ft

Elev. Gain

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The ridge trail goes up and along the ridge until you reach the summit trail. This trail is very difficult and steep. The trail was exposed on both sides at the rocky outcroppings on top of the ridge. It's only the views from there. It's a little bit different going back to the first half of the loop after reaching the summit of Cerro Alto. The trails were wide and there was a lot of scenery. The cool breeze came off of the access road from the campground to the parking area. If you want to keep going after walking from the top down, there are options to return to the top on the Bridge trail.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:280 ft

Max:787 ft

815 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.