Starting from the gate at the parking area it is about 3.5 miles to get to Opal Pool. There is a slight uphill climb along the way but nothing too difficult. The "trail" is a private access road that leads to Jawbone Flats. It is well maintained in some places and not so maintained in others. Make sure to bring your camera for some great photo-ops at Sawmill falls (accessed behind the really old barn that you will see from the trail) and Slide Falls (easily seen from the trail). Both of these locations provide for good swimming holes if you should choose to do so. You'll have to walk your bike through Jawbone Flats before you reach Opal Pool. Expect a fair share of hikers if the weather is good.
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The pictures do not do this place justice, forest, mountains, bright green water, cliffs... as for the ride, its an access road / hiking trail there is zero difficulty.
| ThankThis ride is all about the scenery. The trail is a double track gravel road that is fairly well maintained. A bit rocky in spots and just a little climbing, but generally smooth and flat.
| ThankThe scenery is almost enough to add a star to the rating though. You will see why the name Opal Creek at the first of many pools along the ride. Beautiful green color just begging you to jump in. You are missing half the fun if you don't. Continuing on, there are several swimming spots and picnic areas to discover as you approach Jawbone Flat. You are required to walk your bike through the community to Opal Pool.
This is a popular trail for hikers (swimmers?). Many families; I saw several on department store bikes. Though the young children were having some problems on the rougher patches and/or climbs they all seemed to be enjoying the ride.