Got to the trailhead at 2:30 and did an in and out on the NCT with a small group of friends. Lots of parking available and water pump at the trailhead. Trails were well maintained and marked!
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Loved it. We went south on the NCT - covered most of the way with lots of switchbacks. No water so be sure to carry enough. Filled up at Red Bridge and camped by Aquila Creeks. Lots of great camp sites in the MRT. Plenty of creeks to fill up on water on the way north. Spectacular views of the river. Great trip.
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Nice trail with amazing views and nice changes of habitats. Well marked and several places for a picnic.
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Nice section of the NCT , hiked about 5.5 miles in and out. The trail is in good condition and well marked.
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It’s hard to go wrong with any section of the NCT through the National Forest. Highbank Lake is secluded and has a nice campground. This section passes through a variety of habitat including upland oak, riparian, swamps and marshes. Can be muddy after it rains.
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Did the loop in 2 days — highly recommended doing the NCT side first with enough water packed in for the first 11 miles. Water abundant on the E side (stream) and at Seaton Creek campground (potable).
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