Mission Trails: Oak Canyon Trail to Grasslands Loop to FJS Trail

This odd little loop is the perfect length for toddlers and kids. The trail has fun features for kids to explore like a dam to play near, rocks to climb on, a creek bed to play in, bridges to cross, and stairs to climb. The only downfall about this trail is there is no shade, and it can get very hot. There are beautiful flowers in the spring and usually water in the creek. Park in the Old Mission Dam parking lot. If it is full you can park along the street and walk in. There are porta potties there. Walk down the trail and past the dam on your right. Continue over a bridge and by some fun climbing rocks on your right. From there continue on the trail, you will see a few trails off shooting but continue straight. You should see a river bed in front of you and a large staircase going up behind that. Continue in that direction. You will cross the river bed using a bridge, and then climb the stairs. From the top of the stairs go right on Grasslands Loop Trail. From there continue the trail until you reach a large trail sign and a T in the trail. Take the trail to the right. This trail will take you to the Father Junipero Serra trail, which is actually a road. There is a wide shoulder for walkers, but cars do use the road so take caution with kids. Continue on FJS until you reach the parking lot you started in.