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Took a hike on a trail called North Ridge Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods. A round-trip total of 4.4 miles, out and back. It starts in a dirt parking lot I estimate can hold around 20 cars, with more off road parking available of Skyline Blvd. There are portable bathrooms available at the trailhead.
From the trailhead, the hike begins at around 2000 ft elevation. For about the first third of the hike, it's mostly shaded with comfortable downhill slope until around 1200 ft elevation (a drop of around 800 ft). As the uphill begins, the shade also disappears as you begin working your way up the final hill. The end of the trail is fairly abrupt, without any major sights and a simple "Path Closed" sign. The the return trip is more difficult in terms of elevation gain, but the fact the uphill climb happens in a shaded portion of the path makes the hike feel much easier.
In my opinion, the highlight of this trail is the above treetop views of the valley, and eventually parts of the bath you'll find yourself as you descend to that portion of the hike. On the way back, you'll again see parts of the trail you'll eventually get to, as you ascend back towards the North Ridge Trail parking lot.
Unfortunately for dog owners, dogs are not allowed. We occasionally saw the tire marks of mountain bikes, but never encounter any along the way. The path is fairly well traveled, as we crossed paths with 8-10 other groups of hikers.
Helpful North Ridge Trail Links: