The worst of the incline is right at the beginning so don’t be discouraged! Take a few breaks and enjoy the views of the valley below, it’s especially beautiful during fall when the colors are changing.
Once you’re in the woods the trail system does become a little more complicated so I usually follow along on the AllTrails Map but it is well marked so you can follow the signs for Kohler Trail and then eventually Mesa trail. This trail doesn’t quite have the views that Chautauqua has, but it has shade & a few good glimpses of the valley!
This trail is kind of a loop but mostly an out & back, once you hit the Mesa trail you can go as far as you’d like (it even connects with the NCAR trails) before you turn around. We went about 2 miles to make it an even 4 miles round trip!
Dogs are allowed on leash!