Carney, Hieroglyphic, Ridgeline, Lost Goldmine Loop

Head up the Hieroglyphic Trail to the Ridgeline Trail. Make a right turn and head east on the Ridgeline Trail. There is a point on this hike where you have to make about a 10 foot vertical rock climb. It is not exposed and relatively simple, but if a scramble like this is out of your comfort zone, this may not be a good hike for you. It occurs at the point where the trail turns to the south. The trail continues south and heads along on the east side of the summit block. If time allows, consider making a right near the high point of the route, where the trail makes a left turn and heads east again. By turning right and heading west, you climb up a spur trail to the top of peak 5057, for an amazing view. This deviation from the main trail, would also require a small amount of rock climbing, a little easier than the scramble done earlier on this hike. From the high point of the route, head east. You will notice a trail to the Three Sisters on your right as you descend. When you reach this junction, stay left. Continue east bound until you reach the top of Carney Springs Trail, where there is a small wooden sign at the junction. Head south down Carney, where this trail merges onto the Wave Cave Trail before passing through the gate onto state land. About ten yards beyond the gate, make a right turn and head west on the Lost Goldmine Trail. Take this trail west, back to the Hieroglyphic Trailhead. If there is no parking available, you may park at the Kings Ranch Road and Baseline Trailhead and add some extra distance to the loop. This is an excellent way to see a lot less people and more wonderful desert scenery.