riverrat

I think you will like it there. Be sure to drive in to Utopia and eat at the Lost Maples Cafe. Great food! If you want to grill a steak, go into the General Store across from the park/gazebo and the butcher will fix you up! A trip to Lost Maples isn't complete without a Utopia steak!

Do go check out Lost Maples SNA. The hike to the Ponds isn't too long (about 1-2 hours in and out, depending on your pace & how long you linger at the Ponds) and should be mostly shady. Bring plenty of water along, though, as it will be hot, shade or no shade. If you want a longer hike (about 4-5 hours, depending on how many rest stops you take), do the West Trail, keep to the left at the fork, coming down through Mystic Canyon and by the Ponds.