Leiffer and Ellsworth Loop

Route Description for Leiffer and Ellsworth Loop

Hiking this route affords a whimsical experience. Explore the old-growth forest and enjoy some birdwatching along the way. Compared to most groves in the area, this route offers a more secluded adventure—enjoy the tranquility as most forestland hikes are packed! Additionally, this route is more primitive than most, so you may have to do some bushwhacking. Lastly, we encourage you to dress in layers as the coastal forest is often cloaked in fog!

Setting out from the trailhead, the Leiffer and Ellsworth Loop travels northwest to an intersection. Here, veer right, and you will be guided deep into the forestlands, among redwoods and lush vegetation. This path will gradually descend into the Smith River Valley, granting you views of the water and the perfect opportunity to birdwatch. From here, retrace your footing south, and at the first junction you reach, keep right, and you will begin a climb up a ridge.

Enjoy the magical ambiance of the forest, and the route will guide you back down the ridge to a trail fork. Here, the terrain will plateau, and you will begin retracing your footing east back to the trailhead.