KRUSE RHODODENDRON TO STUMP BEACH (NEW)

Carpool at 9:30 at pullout for Gualala business directory north of bridge, or at The Sea Ranch Lodge at 9:45. NOTE: THIS IS A SHUTTLE HIKE. Shortly after entering Salt Point State Park, drivers from the north should prepare to turn left on Kruse Ranch Road, just before Fisk Mill Cove. There is just a short drive to the official parking area. No fees and no passes required.  After dropping off hikers - 2 (possibly more) cars should drive to Stump Beach and leave enough cars to hold the number of drivers to be picked up at the end at Stump Beach.  Hike will begin from the Kruse parking area. We will hike the short Rhododendron loop while we wait for shuttle drivers to return.  We will proceed up the hill via the Chinese Gulch (or Phillips Gulch) trails continuing up towards Plantation via the road. We will take the Stump Beach Trail (on right) down to Stump Beach where we will lunch either at the picnic tables or at the beach. This is a very beautiful area with the first part of the hike mostly up and the second part mostly down. This is Rhodie season so hopefully we will get to see some of the native Rhododendrons in bloom. Dogs are not allowed on the Kruse trails. Shuttle cars will take drivers back to the start and they will have to return to pick up the riders. This hike has definite elevation change and therefore is one of our more strenuous hikes.
Leaders: Ken & Marian Brown
Mileage: 4.5
photos contributed by Bob, Mary Sue and Harmony