This is one of the trail heads that will take you to South Fortuna going up the stair master of hell. It will also link you up to North Fortuna trail head if you want to do a double peak like I did today. I rate this hike difficult to moderate depending on fitness level. The toughest part you'll face are the inclines getting there and the stairs from hell.
It is really hard to get an exAct address as the GPS map shows this as a unamed road, but it is right of mission gorge and Jackson drive. You make a left when you hit the intersection and it's a dirt lot. You'll take the visitor center loop trail just follow the trail sign. From here it gets very confusing and tricky to navigate to South Fortuna. You'll hit the first fork go right and follow the Fortuna Saddle Trail. We then took another right and followed the Suycott Valley Trail. Which then takes you to the South Fortuna Trail. I know you have to hike these trails to get to South Fortuna! You'll cross a bridge and bit further in you'll need to prep for the stair master from hell. Some of the stairs are still well intact and closer to the top more eroded and rocky the steps get. I won't lie this part is difficult and I was out of breath at the top. Don't stop yet! The peak is still further in! Yes keep going don't give up! The views are not spectacular don't except too much. But you did it! From there we took went back to the saddle back fork and did North Fortuna! Or you can end it and take the Fortuna saddle trail west to complete the loop back to the visitor center loop.
Super confusing with the routes to take, it is better to do it with someone that is familiar with the trail. Other than that it's a good workout! 4.6 miles add on North 4.1 miles. Bring plenty of water it will get hot and there is no shade. read more