Benstein, Northside and Rock Spring Trail Loop

It’s dog friendly! The final 200 feet between the amphitheater and the parking lot is the only no-dog section, but easy to avoid by taking the upper exit out of the amphitheater. Overall, an awesome trail, mostly shaded except for the section between east peak and West Point (we timed it to hit that section after 2pm, which leaves enough shade on the side of the fire road for the pooch).

Trail has different terrains- tall trees, mossy areas to ferns to several small creeks to rocky & 1 steep section. Some incline but overall I would say moderate. Alltrails says 9 but we clock out at over 10 miles. Trail is a mix of shaded & expose areas.

This is a great hike with not a significant amount of elevation gain. We skipped the big climb by taking the fire road instead to Mt. Tam East Peak. The trail for the most part is rocky and uneven and I can see this being rated Hard because of that. Views from Mt. Tam even on a smoky day, being surrounded by Cushing Amphitheatre, and a gorgeous sundown over the parking lot; made for a lovely hike day. We clocked 10.8miles a little over 5hrs (lunch break included) 1522ft elevation gain.

It was a great, peaceful hike until we reached the top and there were a bunch of tourists. Some of them with masks, some without. I would avoid doing the final peak climb after the parking lot if you’re concerned about coronavirus. At about mile 4-5 there is a steep elevation gain which was a welcome challenge but may not be suitable for all.

Agree on the bugs. Very odd the trail though was great, we went a bit later so it was hot, went through a lot of water. Nice rest stop at the West Point Inn for restrooms, and water. Lovely view if there isn’t our friend the fog. Skipped the scramble to the top. Nice to walk through the Mountain Theater, looks like an ancient ruin, without all the people and picnics. Very cool.

This was a great hike. Mostly moderate until the climb up to Verna Dunshee which was very steep and rocky. But the views were outstanding. We were grateful it was a clear day!ill do this one again for sure!