I visited Estrella Mountain Regional Park for the first time on a Friday around 9 am for a short hike. \n\nWhen I pulled up to the booth at the entrance, I was greeted by a friendly gentleman, who took my entrance fee (they take cash and plastic), handed me a map and brochure, and told me that if I have any questions about the trails, there was a little lady in the park ranger station just ahead who knew much more about them than he did. Being my first visit, I decided to stop in and see which trails the little lady recommended. \n\nThe little lady, Cat, was incredibly helpful. Since I was looking for a short hike, she recommended the Baseline Trail. \n\nI started out on the Quail Trail, which hooked up to the Saddle Trail. The Saddle Trail, in turn, intersected with the Baseline Trail. \n\nOnce at the Baseline trailhead, you may choose to go left or right. Either way, you'll arrive back where you started since the trail loops around the perimeter of the park. \n\nThe weather was gorgeous, so I decided to hike the Baseline Trail twice, for a grand total of 4.17 miles (this includes the Saddle Trail and Quail Trail). \n\nEach trailhead I passed was clearly marked and the views were decent for a fairly flat trail. \n\nMy favorite part about this park, however, was that (aside from Cat and the gentleman at the entrance), I didn't see anyone around!\n\nI will definitely be back in the future to try the Rainbow Trail, another hike Cat recommended the next time I'm in the mood for a longer excursion.
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