Stockton Creek Trail

Stockton Creek Preserve sits right at the edge of downtown Mariposa, where a joint project between the Sierra Foothill Conservancy and the Mariposa Public Utility District has protected more than 700 acres of watershed around the town's reservoir. Over four miles of trail wind through oak woodland and open grassland to the reservoir shoreline, making this one of the easiest trail networks around to reach on foot straight from town.

What to expect

The main loop runs a little over three miles with a moderate elevation gain, following Stockton Creek past a small waterfall before circling the reservoir. Expect open grassland, oak groves, and creekside brush — good habitat for the birders and wildflower-spotters who use this trail as much as hikers do. Deer and squirrels are common sights; rattlesnakes are present in the preserve, so watch the trail edges underfoot in warmer months.

Getting there

• Highway 140 trailhead: a dirt parking area off Highway 140 east of Mariposa, about 0.8 miles above Old Highway, with a gated entrance into the preserve.
• Trabucco Street trailhead: park near the football field on the west side of town, then walk past the water treatment facility to reach the gate.

Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trails are shared with mountain bikers, so stay alert on the narrower sections.