Wood Road to Rotary Furnace
- 📏 3.2 miles
- ⬆ 420 ft gain
- Easy-Moderate
- Out and Back
Scenic out and back to the historical heart of the park. The parking area is reached by driving up to the summit of Hicks Road, where your hike starts at an altitude of 1400'. The first 0.5 miles takes you through a wonderful variety of habitat, beginning under full cover of mostly live oaks, crossing a stretch of chaparral, then emerging into rolling grassy hills. About half way along, you will pass a very odd pointy rocky outcrop on your left. Things get interesting as you approach the rotary furnace. Note the bamboo and pampas grass left over from cultivated areas, and look for the "Hanging Tree" on your right. The rotary furnace itself is fenced off and is in bad shape, but still one of the most impressive structures in the park. Stay right as you pass the furnace then sharp left at the next intersection to make a small loop back to the furnace via a short steep downhill section. Follow the trail around back to the parking area..