Spruce Railroad Trail — Sunday, Sep. 21, 2025

Started hike at 2:30 PM Parking lot pretty full but 6-7 open spaces and people leaving. Trail not too busy. Bikes, motorized scooters, and walkers but not crowded. Be careful as a lot of bikers don't alert you or use a bell so you may not hear them approaching from behind. Very pretty views and smooth trail. The path off trail to Punchbowl and the bridge are very nice but do tend to get crowded with swimmers and people lounging enjoying the views. This was the most populated area on our hike. Great weather. Saw a few rough-skinned newts crossing the trail on the way back. They are pretty cute with a bright orange underside. Don't touch them as they produce a toxin that is harmful if ingested and can cause skin irritation.