
Path winding through Rancho Corral de Tierra
Carol Klammer
The Spine Trail is a great way to experience the remoteness and wild beauty of Rancho Corral de Tierra.
Park along Etheldore Street, then hoof it down Ranch Road toward the Ember Ridge Equestrian Center (don't disturb the horses...or the staff, please!). Find the signs for the Spine Trail, and then you're on your way up, up, up.
It's a 1,500-foot climb to the top, but the payoff is a rock outcrop overlook on the flank of Montara Mountain. Catch your breath, enjoy a snack, and savor the view of the coastal hills, valleys, and Pacific Ocean.
Elevation Profile
Surface Type
Surface Category
Parks
Length
5.99 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain
421.00 feet
Elevation Loss
-1565.00 feet
Typical Tread Width
28 Inches
Minimum Tread Width
22 Inches
Typical Cross-Slope
6%
Maximum Cross-Slope
29%
Typical Grade
-10%
Maximum Grade
23%