Description

This hike makes a pleasant retreat in the summer and fall, when water is hard to find through most of the foothills.

Contrary to its name, Dry Creek flows year round, creating a lush riparian zone and habitat for native fish.

The trail explores the leafy creek corridor as well as surrounding grassland flecked with flowers. It begins with a descent into the canyon on a well-traveled path, then the trail bobs between rock formations with some steep sections and loose footing.

It gets easier though, as the terrain levels out in the widening canyon.

You'll see a variety of foliage and perhaps wildlife as the trail ascends casually up the drainage.

Bridges cross the stream a few times, and the scenery alternates from creekside groves to open hillsides. Eventually there's a fork where Shingle Creek joins Dry Creek, and one trail proceeds up each canyon.

You might hike farther on either, but this junction makes a reasonable turnaround point. This hike is best in late spring when the wildflowers pop, and again in fall for the foliage.

It remains popular all summer as well, but is best on cooler days because shade is scarce.

Dry Creek is popular with a variety of users including mountain bikers, so it's important to courteously share the space, and to reduce erosion by staying on the trail.