I am thinking about a 15.3 mile loop from Arroyo Seco Station, to Tassayara Hot Springs, via Horse pasture trail, returning via the Tony trail. Lots of swimming holes in the gorges. Could pay for day use of Tassajara facilities or just hike through and head for the swimming holes. Lots of Poison oak on the overgrown trail.
So far it's me, my 14 year old Libby and our 16 year old buddy Kylie.

Edited by Kat_P on 04/27/2010 07:23:54 MDT.

How warm is it in early May? I've only been there in July?

Go there in early May and you get to see the poison oak in full bloom.

--B.G.--

Good question Casey. I'd think that if we have a sunny weekend, the hike will be hot, given the location and terrain, so the water should feel good, even if it is cooler than in July. How cold was the water in July? Cool or cold ( like Pine Falls, brrr).
As far as Poison Oak, in full bloom does not make it any larger or more intrusive than later on. It may be all shiny now, but it will only grow larger from here on.

Edited by Kat_P on 04/27/2010 09:53:25 MDT.

Casey, how do you get to the ying yang pools?

Katharina, Me and Cameron were there this past weekend--Had a great time! EXCEPT poison oak was literally everywhere on the trail. The trails are very over grown with brush, fallen limbs and fallen trees..The creeks are flowing great....Have a good time...

PS: Watch out for ticks--I had a few on me.

-Jay

Did you get in the water?

Edited by Kat_P on 04/27/2010 14:28:57 MDT.

The water was refreshingly cool.

We are able to swim in a nice pool on the Arroyo Seco creek towards the end of the hike---VERY NICE!!!!!
It maid the drive to IN-N-Out Burger that much easier.

The yin yang pool is about an hour up the river past the narrows. I really want to go back this year, but can't do it in May. How about a trip in July?

Jay and Cameron, which way did you go?
Casey, maybe again in July but I am either going there or somewhere this weekend. Thanks for info on the pools

My daughter and I went to Tassajara via the Horse Pasture trail. No ticks, plenty of poison oak, incredible wild flowers, nice waterfalls and swimming holes. Hope to post some pictures soon.