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Dishman Hills Natural Area's Goldback Spring Loop is located southeast of the main parking area at Camp Caro. The best way to access the Goldback Spring Loop is by combining a trip here with the Deep Ravine Loop.
Look for the first trail to the east after passing through Camp Caro's breezeway and beginning to head up the main trail. This trail climbs a series of rocky outcroppings with rock steps to access Deep Ravine. To complete the loop clockwise, stay left at the first intersection and pass through Deep Ravine. Deep Ravine intersects Goldback Spring at its namesake, where a short wooden bridge crosses the spring. The spring may have running water in the early season, but it generally dries up by mid-summer.
Just beyond the wooden bridge the trail reaches an unmarked intersection. To continue to hike the loop clockwise, bear left and head slightly downhill. Hikers will pass a small entrance to the Dishman Hills at 12th Ave., then continue on the Goldback Springs Loop for just over a quarter mile.
From there the trail climbs for half a mile to an intersection with the Eagle Peak Loop and options for further exploration. To return to Camp Caro, take the trail to the south. Hikers have the option of returning via Enchanted Ravine, the western half of the Deep Ravine Loop, or by returning to the starting trail on the eastern half of the Deep Ravine Loop.
Trailhead
