Suntop Trail Longer Route
While most families and casual hikers take the short Suntop Trail, this 25.9 km route makes a full day of the journey. With 1,346 m of elevation gain to complete, this is a much more arduous trek, but it’s very scenic the whole way. The trail is moderately trafficked but it’s frequented by mountain bikers, so keep your eyes and ears open on the trail.
There is an exposed ridgewalk on this hike that we don’t recommend for those afraid of heights.
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Route Description for Suntop Trail Longer Route
Suntop Trail Longer Route is a big adventure with beautiful views at the top. There are picnic tables and very well-kept facilities, making this a great spot to rest up after trekking over 25.0 km. The trail is well-maintained for the most part, but it does involve some exposed sections and there tend to be lots of mountain bikers, so take the appropriate precautions.
Begin from the parking area, hiking on the signed trail into the forest. Cross Doe Creek and begin a section of switchbacks. You’ll then cross Buck Creek before climbing up next to a ridge, which you’ll roughly follow for a large portion of the hike.
Parts of the ridgewalk are more comfortable than others, but it’s essentially a straight shot from here on out to Suntop. From the viewpoint, you can retrace your steps.
If you want a journey more moderate in distance, we recommend bringing two cars and parking one at the trailhead for the long route and one at the trailhead for the short route. From the viewpoint, you can take the much shorter descent to the nearby trailhead.
Getting to the Suntop Trail Longer Route Trailhead
The trailhead for Suntop Trail is off NF 210 just south of Ranger Creek Airport. There is parking here.
Route Information
Suntop Trail Longer Route Elevation Graph
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