Back in July, a week after my first hike through Pescadero Creek County Park with friends, I returned for a solo trek.

After parking at the Hoffman Creek Trailhead, I started down the Old Haul Road Trail, which was the same starting point and trail our group had used the week before. The trail looked familiar until I reached the Pomponio Trail junction. Instead of taking that branch, I stayed on Old Haul Road for the next 1.5 miles and made a right onto the Butano Ridge Loop Trail.

As soon as I made the turn, the climbing began. I gained roughly 1,300 feet over two miles of switchbacks. Along the way, I saw plenty of redwoods. Some were charred.

Others had fallen.

All were impressive. The view from the ridge wasn't what I expected. I had hoped my climb would be rewarded with grand vistas. Instead, it was compensated with more redwoods. I grumbled, but only for a second since I have a tough time complaining when surrounded by scenery like this:

For the next two miles, the trail undulated. By the time I reached the junction and got off the ridgetop roller-coaster, I had unknowingly gained another 300 feet of elevation.

The descent back to the Old Haul Road Trail was steep and swift. Along the way, I passed interestingly carved rocks.

And spots that would have been perfect for more than a moment's peace (or pause).

While I could have taken the Old Haul Road Trail all the way back to the trailhead, I chose to take an alternate route, which included the Bridge and Pomponio Trails. The Bridge Trail offered this view of Pescadero Creek.

If I were being honest, I would admit that I picked those trails in the hopes of sneaking in a glimpse of the hiker's hut in Sam McDonald County Park. It was a completely unrealistic hope, though, since the "sneak peek" would have added five miles and another 1.5 hours to the hike. I kept the dream alive until I reached the Bear Ridge Trail and finally accepted the hut would have to be something to look forward to on another visit.