John Bull Loop Trail is a 7.8 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Campo Seco, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Horses are also able to use this trail.
Great hike through EBMUD watershed, a beautiful display of wildflowers on the east side of the trail. Not a lot of shade, lots of cows and beautiful views of the lake. A quick walk to the top of John Bull Peak Spur Trail is a must! There's a picnic bench at the top with a 360 view where you can see Mt. Diablo in the west and the snow-capped sierras in the east. Please note a permit is required to use this trail.
You will need to buy a permit from EBMUD for each person doing the hike: https://www.ebmud.com/recreation/buy-trail-permit/
We went on a Sunday and I would say it was lightly trafficked. No other hikers and only a few equestrians. We had John Bull Peak all to ourselves for lunch, great spot to enjoy 360 degree views. Below the peak and towards the west there is another picnic table overlooking Pardee Reservoir. Mid 60s is a perfect temperature, as others have pointed out there is no shade on most of the trail. Fun hike!
Came at 3pm in the peak of heat, not the best idea but this hike is well worth the little struggle haha bring plenty of water, not too much shade, 8 miles in total with all the vista stops . Kicked my ass but still a good hike .
We did this hike last week and it was beautiful. Yes it was flat and a wide trail, through cows etc. but when you got to the edge of the reservoir it was beautiful. We packed a lunch and ate on the edge of the creek. The loop took us about three hours with a lunch break.
John Bull peak for lunch, thru cows for a loop back. Approximately 7 miles plus. More of a roadway than trail. Dogs not allowed. EBMUD permit required, buy before you go. Permit covers four people. Great views over Pardee Reservoir.
Arrived right at day break, not sure if I would have enjoyed this trail as much later in the day. Like the previous reviews view stated, it is mostly a gravel road and at some spots you do have to tip toe through the cow patties but over all it was an awesome conditioning trail for me with great views of Pardee and Camanche lakes. The entire loop took me about 3 1/2 hours to complete.
The description of the loop is deceiving. There is no signage in the parking lot says you need to hike at least 4 miles before the loop trailhead. The trail that starts at the parking lot is part of the Coast to Coast Trail. The trail is actually the size of a small road..well maintained. Moderate walk, with the exception of the hill as you go towards the parking lot. Did not seem so steep on the way in!