Sunset Loop route

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Details

Local Trail Association

near Arnold, CA

4.3 miles

Distance

822 ft

Climb

-854 ft

Descent

4,256 ft

High Point

-31 ft

Altitude change

3,596 ft

Altitude min

3,628 ft

Altitude start

3,596 ft

Altitude end

-0.1%

Grade

-45.6%

Grade max

34.2%

Grade min

2 miles

Distance climb

2 miles

Distance down

1,273 ft

Distance flat

Overview: This is an ART classic and the venue for ARTA's guided sunset hikes during the summer. Check arnoldrimtrail.org for the schedule of ARTA's guided hikes. This is an intermediate level four-mile outing with 730 feet of elevation gain, offering a moderate workout with rewarding views and diverse terrain. That said, it is not a hike for beginners.

Getting Started: The Sunset Loop can be accessed from Valley View Drive (dirt road). Parking is plentiful.

The Loop:
• The route is mostly single-track with a mix of double-track.
• Be prepared for significant elevation gain, exceeding 800 feet, with several steep climbs throughout the loop.
• The trail crosses Cowell Creek, which is wet year around. Anticipate a wet crossing during the wet season. The crossing can be challenging during wetter periods.
• Enjoy a scenic half-mile segment running alongside Cowell Creek, which may showcase wildflower displays in the spring and dogwood color in the fall.

Cautions:
• In wet weather, access to the parking area from the half-mile dirt portion of Valley View Drive can be very slick. Two-wheel drive vehicles may have difficulty driving back up the hill. All-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended in wet-weather.
• No potable water is available along the route.
• Cell reception may not be reliable.
• Download a map to your phone for offline use before you go.

Highlights:
The views from Cougar Rock, particularly at sunset are memorable This loop combines the challenge of steep climbs with the beauty of stunning views and varied landscapes, making it a worthwhile experience for experienced users.

Detailed Description

Sunset Loop is a 4 mile intermediate route located near Arnold California. This hike primary route can be used both directions and has a moderate overall physical rating. This route includes 5 trails. This route climbs 822 ft with a max elevation of 4,256 ft then descends -854 ft.

Arnold Rim Trail Association (arnoldrimtrail.org)

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Distance

4 miles
Altitude min

3,596 ft
Altitude start

3,628 ft
Altitude end

3,596 ft
Climb

822 ft
Descent

-854 ft
Grade

-0.1%
Grade max

-45.6%
Grade min

34.2%
Distance climb

2 miles
Distance down

2 miles
Distance flat

1,273 ft

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Sunset Loop Connector

Cougar Rock

Arnold Rim (27-31)

Riding area

Arnold Rim Trail System
Primary Activity

Hike
Other Activities
- Mountain Bike
- Horse
- Trail Running
Difficulty rating

Blue
Route Type

Loop
Bike type

XC
Direction

Both Directions
Physical rating

Moderate

Distance (Trails & Routes)

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ATV - 50 inches
OHV, SxS - 60 inches
Jeep - 72 inches

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Winter Trails

Warning A routing network for winter maps does not exist. Selecting trails using the winter trails layer has been disabled.

trail	date	description
Arnold Rim (27-31)	Jul 20, 2026 @ 8:26am (America/Los_Angeles) Jul 20, 2026	Patrolled trails crossing creek three times. Met Hikers with dog. Said what a great trail this was. They thanked us for bike bells. reporter
Cougar Rock	Jul 16, 2026 @ 4:12pm (America/Los_Angeles) Jul 16, 2026	reporter
Sunset Loop Connector	Jun 14, 2026 @ 9:52am (America/Los_Angeles) Jun 14, 2026	reporter
P9	Mar 29, 2026 @ 4:58pm (America/Los_Angeles) Mar 29, 2026	Chatted with Everett, and a crew cleared this trail out in the last week. So all clear! reporter