Little Yosemite via McCorkle Trail & Camp Ohlone loop

The trail is located within Sunol Regional Wilderness. Parking is available at the main park entrance. Be aware that the park can get very busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, there is typically an entrance fee per vehicle to enter Sunol Regional Wilderness. Additionally, some activities or areas within the park, such as backpacking on the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, may require specific permits. Always check the official park website for the most current fee and permit information before your visit.

Dogs are generally allowed in Sunol Regional Wilderness, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the specific park regulations regarding dogs before your visit, as rules can sometimes vary or change.

Spring is often considered the best time to hike this loop. The hills are vibrantly green, wildflowers are in bloom, and Alameda Creek is likely to have flowing water, enhancing the 'Little Yosemite' experience. Fall and winter can also be pleasant, but be mindful of potential muddy conditions after rain. Summers can be very hot and exposed in some sections.

The loop offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll encounter wider fire roads, which are more gradual, as well as narrower single tracks. The path includes rolling hills, both shady woodlands, and open grasslands. The McCorkle Trail section, especially when returning from Little Yosemite, can involve significant uphill climbs and steep descents. Some single-track sections along ridges may have steep drop-offs.

The primary highlight is Little Yosemite, a scenic gorge on Alameda Creek with large boulders and seasonal waterfalls. You'll also pass by Big Live Oaks. As you ascend ridges, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Sunol Valley, the Diablo Range, and in some areas, the Calaveras Reservoir. The McCorkle Trail Viewpoint offers excellent vistas.

While generally considered moderate, some sections, particularly the McCorkle Trail, involve steady climbs and steep descents that might be challenging for beginners or very young children. The initial part of the trail to Little Yosemite on the fire road can be more family-friendly. Consider the full loop's distance and elevation gain before bringing beginners or small children.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several other trails within the park. Notably, it follows parts of the Ohlone Wilderness Trail and Camp Ohlone Road, which are part of a larger network of paths in the Sunol Regional Wilderness.

Sunol Regional Wilderness is home to various wildlife. You might spot deer, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. In spring, you'll often see cows and calves grazing in the grasslands. Keep an eye out for raptors soaring overhead. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.

Many hikers prefer to tackle the steeper, more exposed sections of the McCorkle Trail on the ascent, making the return via Camp Ohlone Road a more gradual and easier descent. The McCorkle Trail can be quite steep in places, especially when returning from Little Yosemite, so be prepared for a significant uphill climb if you choose that direction. The Camp Ohlone Road offers a wider, gravel track for an easier return.

This loop is a very popular and accessible hiking destination in the East Bay, especially due to the unique 'Little Yosemite' feature. It can get quite busy, particularly on weekends and holidays, so expect to share the trail with other hikers. Arriving early can help avoid the largest crowds.