Ripped Nipple via 1st Step

Ripped Nipple via 1st Step in Roberts Creek is a short loop with a big attitude. On paper it’s 3.9 km with 218 m of gain and tagged as moderate, but recent hikers are finding it closer to a tough, technical outing than a casual hour-and-a-bit stroll.

The loop climbs quickly on a water-eroded track with loose rocks underfoot, then eases off across the top with some welcome flat, mellow forest walking. The descent is where Ripped Nipple via 1st Step earns its name, with rocky scrambles, small cliff bands, and bits of bushwhacking as you weave through classic Roberts Creek forest and bike lines.

Current reports say this “moderate” label is misleading, and many people are taking closer to 3 hours than the posted 1 h 26 min. Expect sections built for mountain bikes, fallen trees to clamber over, and rough, sometimes confusing tread; bring good footwear, give yourself extra time, and avoid this loop in heavy rain when the eroded sections get slick. Ripped Nipple via 1st Step is best for experienced hikers who are comfortable with scrambling and route-finding, and it’s wise to keep dogs leashed and ready to lift or guide them over obstacles.