A hidden treasure, the Pine Log Creek Trail provides almost 5 miles of beautiful trails along scenic creeks and a few winter views as well as the remote CCC Quarry Pond. These trails are never boring and provide enough challenge to keep them interesting. Bring the dog and the family.
The parking lot is large as the trail is popular on weekends but still on most days doesn't completely fill up. The hike begins at the start of the lot at the two information signs. No restrooms are available. The trail system is made up of two loops joined by a short connector trail and accessed from the trailhead by a half-mile approach trail to the West Loop. The elevation map is based on taking both loops clockwise.
Head out along the yellow-blazed approach trail. These mile-marker blazes are few but the old blue painted blazes are still present on the trees. There are several short bridges but the longest one is right at the beginning as you cross over Pine Log Creek with side trails that beg you to explore.
The first intersection is with the West Loop. Continue straight or turn right crossing the bridge. On the other side of the bridge you'll see the trail split again to the right and left. Either direction here is fine as they reconnect shortly afterward. Going right is the easier route. Going around the loop clockwise will take you up the steepest section first and provide some winter views, but not much view in summer. The only other intersection along the West Loop is with the connector to the East Loop, marked by a sign.
The East Loop quickly splits from the connector trail without any sign. With more rolling elevation changes, this loop provides it's own challenge but nothing as long as the north half of the West Loop. The only other intersection is with the CCC Quarry Pond trail. This intersection used to have a sign but no longer does. When you get to the intersection, the trail leading downhill and across a short bridge will take you to the pond.
Surrounded by steep hills, the CCC Quarry pond feels very remote. The pond is teaming with fish. Continue along the trail as it heads around the pond. The trail becomes more rugged and overgrown as it leads around to the large triangular rock that juts out over the water. This can be challenging to climb up on but the rock is rough and provides good grip. You'll have to go over a ledge but on the left side there is a smaller ledge that makes a perfect foothold to easily get over and back up. Always be careful when climbing rocks and take extra caution or avoid when wet.
When you're ready to head back, continue around the East Loop back to the short connector then around the other half of the West Loop back to the first intersection. Return along the Approach Trail back to the trailhead.