The "Extended Farmer" includes all of the features of the Beauty Ranch Hike, and continues to Jack London's lake. The estimated time for the combined hike should be approximately 2 1/2 hours.
The trail through the Beauty Ranch is mostly exposed to the sun. Once the trail heads uphill towards the lake, it is mostly in the shade of a mixed forest of Coastal Redwoods, Douglas Fir, Tanbark Oak and other smaller shrubs. The trail is somewhat steep in places and continues uphill for approximately 3/4 mile.
The hike to the lake can be most pleasant if it is timed so that lunch is enjoyed at the lake. There is one picnic table at the lake; many people prefer to sit on the dam while enjoying their lunch. There is a pit toilet at the site.
The lake was formed by the building of a stone dam in the hills above the ranch fields. It was kept full by a pipe line bringing water from Graham Creek. Over time, much of the lake has become silted and overgrown with plants. It is approximately one-half the size of the original lake. In order to protect the dam, the water level is kept low. A major fund raising effort will hopefully produce the necessary funds to dredge the lake and repair the dam. For more information, go to www.jacklondonlake.org.
Jack's workmen built a redwood-log bathhouse next to the lake with a lean-to on each side to house the boats used on the lake. This became a favorite spot to entertain guests, especially in the summer. The boathouse was completely restored several years ago. Jack built a dock which led from the boathouse to the lake; the dock no longer exists but long-range restoration plans call for reconstruction of the dock.
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