Sky–Z Ranch Loop

Sky–Z Ranch Loop is a 4.1-mile lollipop loop from Sky Trailhead, linking Sky, Horse, Z Ranch, and Mount Wittenberg trails. Allow two to three hours. Much of the route stays beneath trees, with a weather-dependent opening toward the Pacific on the western Mount Wittenberg leg. It suits hikers who want a longer forest walk more than a summit view.

Walk 0.8 mile south on Sky Trail, turn left onto Horse Trail for 0.4 mile, then right onto Z Ranch Trail. Z Ranch runs 0.7 mile, climbing for about two-thirds beneath firs over a soft layer of needles. At the Mount Wittenberg junction, skip the 0.3-mile summit spur and stay on its western leg for 0.4 mile to the Sky–Meadow junction. Turn north on Sky Trail for 1.8 miles to the start. The loop retraces the first 0.8 mile on Sky Trail; its 4.1 miles includes that shared approach.

The northern Sky section is a broad dirt-and-gravel service road; the other trails narrow to single track, about two feet wide in places. Z Ranch crosses a slope with a sharp downslope below the tread. The return passes Sky Campground, where there is potable water and a vault toilet. The small Sky Trailhead lot is off Limantour Road; if it is full, use the north shoulder with all tires off pavement and the westbound lane clear. Pets are prohibited on the route. Shaded trails can be slick and muddy after winter rain.