Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Loop
About This Trail
This trail connects to other trails throughout the park, but the loop gives the best example of the varied environments to be found in Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness.
Starting at the Old Corral Picnic area, head north on the Bell Canyon trail. It is the trail closest to this parking lot entrance, and blocked from the road with a barrier. Continue on Bell Canyon through trees and a field. The next trail turn off will be Star Rise trail, on the left. It will require for you to cross the creek bed twice (there may be water) before continuing uphill to the ridge line. Here you will turn left onto the West Ridge trail, with excellent views of the park. (This is also where you will be most likely to encounter rattlesnakes). Follow the ridge until you reach Dick Loskorn trail on the left. This is the most difficult trail of the loop; while it is mostly downhill the steep, dirt trail can be slippery and somewhat washed out in some areas. It is also one of the more beautiful trails of the park with dramatic views and wildflowers in the spring. It will reconnect you with the Nature Loop on the valley floor, which leads back to the parking lot.
Trail Features
Seasons | Fall, Spring, and Winter |
---|---|
Surface type | Dirt |
Elevation gain | 360 ft. |
Stroller friendly | No |
ADA accessible | No |
Water fountains | No |
Bathrooms | No |
Cell reception | Spotty |
Pet friendly | No |
Nearby convenience store | Yes |
Camping Nearby | No |
Emergency support within 5 miles |
Yes |
Trail highlights
Loop of Caspers Wilderness showcasing the main highlights of the park: large trees, grassy meadows, creek crossings, and dramatic ridgeline cliffs. This is a great place for wildflowers in the stream.
Fee & Parking Details
Parking fees (day use): $3 per vehicle entry Monday – Friday; $5 Saturday – Sunday; Higher for some holidays and events.
For this trail, follow the park road to the very last parking lot for the Old Corral Picnic Area.
Trail Contributor

My name is Nicole Dominick, and I’ve been hiking with Hike it Baby since May 2016 with my daughter. She is now 4.5 years old and has hiked over 400 miles! She has been carried for most of those miles, but we enjoy every journey. We were both born and raised in Southern CA but now live in Colorado Springs, CO.
Weather
Trail Map
Getting There
From the I 5 Fwy, take the CA 74/ Ortega Hwy eastbound. The park entrance will be on your left.