Manzana Narrows
Manzana Narrows is a popular wilderness back country destination and makes a very long day hike or a great backpack trip. You hike in remote, rugged wilderness, far from civilization. The creek can be quite full in spring, but dries significantly by summer. Because of this, and because the hike is long - about 14 miles - this hike is best done in spring, fall or winter to avoid heat in summer. Don't do this hike during storms.
At the destination are primitive campgrounds and a cool river with inviting pools for wading, making this an attractive destination.
There is a fee to park at Nira.
The hike begins at the end of Nira Campground at the large informational sign marking the San Rafael Wilderness area.
1 tenth mile, cross the creek. This is the Manzana Creek and we will be following it all the way to the Narrows.
At about 1 mile, pass Lost Valley Camp.
At 2 miles pass Fish Creek Camp.
At 3.5 miles or so Pass Ray's Camp.
At about 5.5 or 6 miles, the trail takes a leftward turn up into a narrower canyon. The vegetation becomes more lush, with oak trees and some shade. The creek becomes very inviting at this point.
Pass Manzana Camp.
At about the 7 mile mark you reach the Narrows Camp. There are picnic tables here, but otherwise the camp is primitive. The pools are inviting and the camp is luxuriously shaded in summer, but cold in the cooler months because of the shade. There may be annoying flies here some months of the year.
The Manzana trail continues for several more miles, connecting with Hurricane Deck at White Ledge, passing more primitive camps on the way.
To return to your car, turn back the way you came for 7 miles.
Total hike mileage: 14 miles.