Alec Canyon + Triple Falls Trail

Alec Canyon Trail is a 3.2-mile there-and-back hike with an optional trip to Triple Falls for an additional 0.4 miles. This is a steep and moderately strenuous hike on an old logging road. Along the way you can look forward to some great views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Central Valley. 

From the informational kiosk near the Waterfall Loop Trailhead it's just a short distance to the beginning of the Alec Canyon Trail. Heading left at this junction, there are a series of steep switchbacks that quickly rise 400 feet in elevation. The trail breaks out of the tree canopy and levels off briefly where Manzanita Point is located. A viewing bench can be found if you wish to rest and appreciate this beautiful landscape. 

Continuing on, the trail descends back down and into the cover of the trees. At this point you can choose to take the 0.4-mile trail to Triple Falls. Water may or may not be flowing down these falls, as it is dependent on the seasonal water runoff of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It is still a worthwhile trip, however, as it is a short, moderate hike with plenty of shade. 

Once you are back on Alec Canyon, it is a short distance to the end of the trail. If you're itching for more hiking, the Contour Falls Trail and the Waterfall Loop connect to this trail.