Burch Creek Trail #43

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Wildflowers

The trailhead is just off the side of Ridgedale Drive, and is well-marked. There is no parking lot, but you can park on either side of the road.

This out-and-back trail is moderately challenging, but immensely rewarding, with plenty of wildflowers, shade, creek crossings, and a few rock scrambles. It doesn't have a defined endpoint: this one is all about the journey! Enjoy the numerous flowers, river birches, maples, and the cool air along the stream. The trail does continue further up the canyon, but eventually becomes overgrown and harder to follow.

The trail starts out pretty level, with only slight inclines and not too many rocks, but it does get steeper in sections throughout. There are numerous stream crossings; some of the earlier ones have small footbridges in various stages of disrepair, but later crossings are just rocks and branches.

Depending on the time of year, the stream is pretty shallow at most of the crossings, so if you don't mind getting your feet wet you might be better off just hiking straight through. Be careful and use your judgement. There are several short sections where rock scrambling is required.

Thimbleberry