Kortum trail - Jenner, CA
Kortum Trail – Scenic Dog-Friendly Hiking in Jenner, California
Kortum Trail in Jenner, CA, offers one of Sonoma Coast’s most picturesque coastal hiking experiences. Known for its easy, mostly flat paths and breathtaking views of the Northern California coastline, this trail is a popular spot for outdoor lovers and families alike. While it’s an excellent trail for hiking, walking, and enjoying wildflowers or sunset vistas, it is important to note that dogs are not allowed on the trail to help protect local wildlife.
Amenities along Kortum Trail include a wooden boardwalk that enhances accessibility for strollers and some wheelchairs, though the ground can be uneven and challenging after rain. The area is uncovered, so visitors should come prepared for direct sun, especially as there is little to no shade along much of the route. Parking is available at Shell Beach parking lot, and the trail offers options for both long hikes or short excursions down to the beach, with opportunities to see tide pools during low tide. With its family-friendly environment and beautiful scenery, Kortum Trail is a must-visit for nature lovers near Jenner, California, though it’s not suitable as a dog park destination.
FAQs – Kortum Trail
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs are not allowed on Kortum Trail.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? The wooden path/walkway is approximately 40 inches wide and suitable for some mobility devices, but the terrain can become difficult after rain, and the trail narrows with steps past certain points.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? The trail is considered family friendly and suitable for children, especially due to its mostly flat nature.
- Where is the best place to park? The best place to park is at the Shell Beach parking lot.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Kortum Trail is a popular hiking trail with both coastal and beach access routes for varying lengths of hiking experience.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The ground can be soft and uneven after rain, making some sections more challenging.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? There are snakes (non-venomous garter snakes) reported on the trail in spring.
Reviews
This was an easy picturesque trail. Mostly flat and has lots of wildflowers in early late spring. The boardwalk is made both to protect wildlife from humans and vice-versa. We saw at least three snakes on the trail. Non venomous garter snakes. Stay safe on the trail. Dogs are not allowed. I guess they would go after the snakes. Stay safe and enjoy the beach, ocean views, sea stacks and wildflowers
Nice easy hike. Beautiful and scenic views!
Beautiful views of the coastline. It’s an easy trail that is flat. You can hike for as little or as long as you want. There are also beautiful views if you go at sunset.
There’s a long trail, along the coast. Or a short trail that goes down to the beach, very cute! Feels like an adventure going down the to the small beach. Definitely want to come back and walk the longer trail.
Park at the Shell Beach parking lot. We took the Kortum Trail heading north and turned around at Blind Beach. The views are incredible.
If you don’t have any mobility challenges, the trail should be easy with a gentle elevation gain.
There is no shade. Check low tide before you head out. You might be able to check out the tide pools at shell beach too.
It’s a family friendly trail, mostly flat with some choose your adventure off shoots.
The trail is briefly jogger stroller friendly. I wouldn’t attempt it with a stroller that small wheels.
If you are a wheelchair user, the ground can be a little soft after the rain. You will probably be able to go 0.75 miles before you reach a point where the train narrows and leads to steps. The terrain is uneven, I wouldn’t attempt it alone.
Larger or pneumatic tires will work best. There is a wooden path/walkway approximately 40 inches wide. My daughter is a wheelchair user and uses a Wike for trails like this.