Are dogs allowed on Rinconada Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Rinconada Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Rinconada Trail?

No, Rinconada Trail 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 Rinconada Trail?

Rinconada Trail is rated difficult. It is 4.7 miles long with 1,673 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.

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

Rinconada Trail

Santa Margarita, California

4.7 mi

Distance

1,673 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 3m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

There are lots of live oak trees in the mountain country. Really nice views from the top. The Hi Mountain Lookout Road is unpaved in the Santa Lucia District of Los Padres National Forest. The trailhead is located on the south side of Pozo Road, close to the turn-off for Santa Margarita Lake. The sign indicates the turn-off to the short road. The trail begins on the east side of the parking lot and goes through grassy meadow and oak woodlands to the open chaparral. It reaches a broad saddle with great views south into the Santa Lucia Wilderness.

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:536 ft

Max:743 ft

510 ft

Trail Details

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

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

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.