Coalinga Mineral Springs
The Coalinga Mineral Springs National Recreation Trail was designated under the National Recreation Trails System Act in 1981. The trail is located on the scenic southern tip of the Diablo Mountains. Panoramic views of the southern Diablo Mountains can be enjoyed from Kreyenhagen Peak. The area is a mixed chaparral-foothill vegetation community where visitors can encounter grey pine, chamise, Manzanita, yucca, and many other shrubs and annual wildflowers. Trailhead parking is located at Coalinga Mineral Springs County Park. There is no longer any running water or facilities at the County Park, and there are no facilities along the trail except for directional signs. There is an information board and map box located at the trailhead.
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE
There is a wide range of wildlife present throughout the Coalinga Mineral Springs area. Along the trail you may encounter California mule deer, quail, squirrels, morning dove, feral pig, grey fox, bobcat, and many others.
RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES
Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting, watchable wildlife.
TRAILS
The trailhead is located across the creek from the Coalinga Mineral Springs County Park. Once on the trail, the visitor has over 2.5 miles of continuous trail to hike on which leads to the top of Kreyenhagen Peak. The trail width is between 18 and 24 inches, and 48 inches in hazardous areas to provide safety to the hiker and horseman.
HUNTING
The entire landscape of Coalinga Mineral Springs burned in the 2020 Mineral Fire. As of Spring 2021, there has been little vegetation recovery to support wildlife or game. A recommended alternative nearby hunting area for quail includes Curry Mountain. Recommended alternative hunting areas for quail, deer, and pigs is Condon Peak, Clear Creek (entrance area), Laguna Mountain, Sweetwater, and Short Fence. From CMS, these areas are best accessed by returning to Coalinga and then northwest on Los Gatos Road (Coalinga Road).
There are three main types of hunting available, including upland game bird, small game, and big game like deer. Varmint (non-game) hunting is also allowed. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulates the hunting seasons for different species and the types of firearms allowed for use. Please be aware that this region is home to the California Condor and affects non-game hunting.
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Geographic Coordinates
Directions
From Interstate 5 take the US Highway 198 exit and follow Highway 198 through the town of Coalinga. Continue for approximately 18 miles and make a right onto Coalinga Mineral Springs road. Public lands are located across the creek at the far end of Coalinga Mineral Springs County Park.