Crystal Springs, Summit, Chinquapin and Dean Loop

This loop is located within Huddart Park in San Mateo County. Parking is available inside Huddart Park. You'll find designated parking areas near the main entrance or various trailheads within the park.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Huddart Park, including this loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers the chance to see delicate wildflowers, while winter might allow you to hear and see water in McGarvey Gulch Creek along the Dean Trail. The dense forest provides good shade, making it pleasant even on warmer days.

Yes, Huddart Park typically charges an entrance fee per vehicle. You do not need a separate hiking permit for the trails themselves, but the park entrance fee covers access to all park facilities and trails.

The loop features diverse terrain with a mix of inclines and descents. The Crystal Springs trail segment involves some pretty steep climbing. The Dean Trail is a single-track path. Overall, the trails are well-maintained but hikers should be prepared for varied surfaces through dense forest.

You'll hike through lush, tranquil forests dominated by towering redwoods, Douglas firs, madrone, and oak trees. Look out for huckleberry, toyon, and wildflowers in spring. The diverse ecosystem offers chances to spot abundant wildlife, including deer and various bird species.

Rated as moderate to moderately hard, this loop involves significant elevation changes and a distance of about 12 kilometers (7 miles). While parts might be manageable, the overall length and steep sections, particularly on the Crystal Springs segment, might be challenging for beginners or very young children. It's best suited for hikers with some experience.

Yes, sections of this route utilize parts of other trails. You will hike along segments of the Dean Trail, Chinquapin Trail, Campground Trail, and the Crystal Springs Trail. A small portion also overlaps with the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 04 - San Francisco and Peninsula.

While the loop focuses on natural immersion, the Dean Trail includes a picnic table at McGarvey Flat, which can be a good spot to take a break. During winter, you might hear and see water in McGarvey Gulch Creek near this area.

Given the moderate difficulty and length, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate hiking footwear, and layers of clothing as forest temperatures can vary. A map or GPS device is also recommended to navigate the various trail segments within the park.

This particular loop within Huddart Park primarily winds through dense forest, offering an immersive woodland experience. While the broader Crystal Springs Regional Trail boasts stunning views of the Crystal Springs Reservoir, the Crystal Springs Trail segment within Huddart Park itself does not typically offer panoramic vistas.