Canyon Acres Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

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Sunset over Catalina Island from the Canyon Acres Trail

Full moon and sandstone geology, Canyon Acres Trail

Canyon Acres Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

      • Location:  Hills north of Laguna Beach in south Orange County.  From I-405, take the highway 133 exit south for 8.5 miles.  Turn left on Forest, which becomes 3rd St, and after 0.3 miles total take a left onto Park Ave.  Go 1.8 miles on Park to its terminus in Alta Laguna Drive, and head left, and park at the end of the street.
      • Agency:  Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
      • Distance: 2.6 miles
      • Elevation gain: 850 feet
      • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
      • Difficulty: PG
      • Best season: All year (Hot during the summer)
      • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
      • Recommended gear: sun hat;  hiking poles
      • More information: here; Everytrail report here
      • Rating: 6

This short but steep “reverse” hike explores the southwestern corner of Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. There’s a nice variety of scenery, including great ocean views, aerial vistas of Laguna Canyon and the characteristic sandstone geology of the area. You can also see Old Saddleback, and on clear days, the San Gabriels. This trail is a great place to watch the sunset, and it is short enough that it can be done easily as an after-work excursion, as well as on the weekends.

From the end of Alta Laguna, follow the Park Avenue Nature Trail past the billboard and downhill. Where the nature trail heads off to the left, take a right to access the Canyon Acres trail, a fire road. The trail bends to the left and starts heading downhill, providing nice views of Laguna Canyon far below. Several false trails branch off, although the main route is pretty obvious.

After a steep descent, the trail levels out for a little while and begins another descent. Look for some sandstone caves on the right (and possibly some people climbing inside them). At 0.8 miles, the trail splits again. Head right, around a horseshoe-shaped curve that takes in some great ocean views. As you round the side of a knoll and head back into the canyon, you get a nice look at some more geology, including an outcrop that may remind some of Griffith Park’s famous Bee Rock.

The lower end of the trail is pleasantly quiet, protected from the nearby street noise. At 1.3 miles, you reach a bridge that connects the trail to the end of Canyon Acres Drive. There’s a nice wooded area where you can sit for a little bit and catch your breath before making the steep climb back to Alta Laguna. The silver lining is that whenever you have to stop and catch your breath, you’ll have some great views to enjoy. If you really want to burn a few extra calories, try returning via the Park Avenue Nature Trail.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Spring Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon Trails

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Dusk on the Spring Canyon Trail

Oaks on the Spring Canyon Trail

Spring Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon Trails

    • Location: Thousand Oaks, on the corner of Heavenly Valley and Hemlock Lane.  From Highway 101, take the Lynn Road exit.  Head south for a mile and turn left on Heavenly Valley Road.  It may appear to be a private alley way, but public access is allowed.  Drive 0.3 miles to the top of the hill and park on the corner of Heavenly Valley and Hemlock.  From the west, take highway 101 to Ventu Park Road.  Turn right and drive south for 0.5 miles.  Turn left on Lynn Road, drive 0.4 miles and turn right onto Heavenly Valley.
    • Agency: Conejo Open Space Foundation
    • Distance: 3.2 miles
    • Elevation gain: 400 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 3 hours
    • Best season: Year round
    • USGS topo map:  Newbury Park
    • More information:  here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 4

This enjoyable suburban hike takes in a nice variety of scenery. On clear days, you may get a glimpse of the ocean between the hills; you’ll also see the Santa Susana Mountains, the Santa Monicas and a nice panorama of Thousand Oaks. The Spring Canyon Trail also provides access to the longer Los Robles Trail if you want to extend the trip.

From the end of Hemlock Lane, follow a dirt trail uphill into a grove of oaks. This is the Spring Canyon Trail, which runs parallel to the backs of some houses before bending southeast at half a mile. You head downhill, leaving behind the noise of suburbia, and into the canyon. After 0.9 miles, stay straight as the Los Robles Trail branches off to the right (eventually heading up toward Angel Vista, also described on this site.) Shortly afterward, look for the Oak Creek Trail on the left.

This short loop is popular with mountain bikers, so be careful as you make your way through it. You can hike it in either direction. Assuming you head right, you’ll go down into a shady canyon and soon come out at Greenmeadow St. Turn left and walk 0.1 miles to a parking area where the second half of the loop trail starts. (This stretch of road has no sidewalk, and it can be hard to see the cars coming and going, so although traffic is usually light, be cautious.)

At the parking area, where there are picnic tables and restrooms, you begin walking on the second half of the Oak Creek Loop Trail, which is designed to be accessible for wheelchair riders and for the blind, with several Braille plaques describing some of the scenery.  After 0.4 miles, you complete the loop.  Head right and turn right again when you get back to the Los Robles Trail, and retrace your steps.

Although it doesn’t offer scenery as dramatic as other trials in the area such as Los Robles or those at Lang Ranch, this short trip is well worth a visit if you’re in the area; it makes a nice before or after work trip, and

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Love Valley

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Lake Henshaw from the trail to Love Valley

Love Valley

Love Valley

  • Location: Cleveland National Forest, in the foothills southeast of the Palomar Mountains near Santa Ysabel.  From Interstate 15 south of Temecula, take highway 76 west for 30.3 miles.   Just before Lake Henshaw, turn left on East Grade Road (county road S-7).  Drive 3.3 miles and look for a big turnout on the left side of the road.  It used to be signed for Love Valley, but the sign is no longer there.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Cleveland National Forest/Palomar Mountain Ranger Distridct
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 300 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: Palomar Observatory
  • More information: Trip report here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 8

This short but very scenic trip is one of the most enjoyable in the Palomars, and the wide vistas are not unlike the famous Panorama Trail of Yosemite National Park.  Although there are no waterfalls, the views of Lake Henshaw and the Volcan and Cuyamaca Mountains to the east are quite something; very much a pleasant surprise for hikers of San Diego and elsewhere.

The actual destination of the trail, Love Valley, is a wide open meadow, and it makes a great place for a picnic.  At 3,300 feet above sea level, it’s likely to be reasonably cool even into the summer months, and there are plenty of oak trees for shade.  There’s also a big red barn, completing the Americana feel.

From the parking area, walk around the metal gate and begin heading downhill on the fire road.  Soon you get some great views of Lake Henshaw and the mountains across the way.  The trail descends for 0.8 miles before arriving at a split.  Here, you can either walk straight and head to the barn, or you can go left (south), where you soon arrive at a small knoll dotted with oaks.  A short climb over some rocks gives you nice views of the lake.  The fire road becomes a single-track and continues south for a little ways, but this makes a good turnaround point.

To be sure, this hike is a little bit short to justify driving all the way from Orange County or L.A., but it certainly makes a nice trip from San Diego.  It can also easily be combined with a visit to the famous Palomar Mountain Observatory Trail, or perhaps Cuyamaca Rancho or Anza-Borrego State Parks.   It’s well worth making the effort to visit.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

La Jolla Valley Loop via Chumash Trail (Point Mugu State Park)

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Entering La Jolla Valley, Point Mugu State Park

Ocean view from the top of the Chumash Trail, Point Mugu State Park

La Jolla Valley Loop via Chumash Trail (Point Mugu State Park)

  • Location: Western end of Point Mugu State Park, in Ventura County. From the end of I-10 in Santa Monica, take the Pacific Coast Highway for 36 miles.  The Chumash Trail is on the north side of the road (right), across from an orange lookout tower, past the other two entrances to the park (La Jolla and Big Sycamore).  From the San Fernando Valley, take Highway 101 to the Lewis Road/Route 34 exit (35 miles west of I-405).  Go south for 5.4 miles on Lewis (it changes to Hueneme Road on the way) and turn left on Las Posas.  Go 3 miles and turn left onto Pacific Coast Highway.  Go 2.3 miles and look for the parking lot on the left.  From Santa Barbara and Ventura, take highway 101 to exit 62/Pacific Coast Highway and follow it southeast for 13 miles.
  • Agency: Point Mugu State Park
  • Distance: 6.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Steepness, distance, elevation gain)
  • Best season: October to May
  • USGS topo maps: “Point Mugu”
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat
  • More information: Chumash Trail info and photos here and here; alternate route through the loop (including Mugu Peak) here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 8

This challenging and scenic route is like several smaller hikes rolled into one: a trip through a meadow with panoramic views, a pleasant walk through a quiet, shaded canyon–and an extremely steep climb and descent. There are several possible variations to the route; it can easily be shortened or extended.

The Chumash Trail is the westernmost trail in Point Mugu State Park, cutting through an area that could be described as the Santa Monica Mountains’ last stand before dropping to the ocean and the coastal plain of Ventura and Camarillo.  It’s closer to Santa Barbara than L.A., but can still be reached in about an hour from Santa Monica along P.C.H. The small parking lot that provides access to the Chumash Trail is the westernmost of Point Mugu State Park’s three Pacific Cost Highway entrances. It’s the only one too with free parking – although the steepness of the Chumash Trail could be seen as a price of sorts.

From the parking lot, the Chumash Trail ascends at a grade that may make you question the presence of a benevolent higher power. The good news is that as you climb up the hill, you’ll get great views of the ocean, and the Channel Islands. Expect to spend at least half an hour on this 0.7 mile stretch, which climbs nearly 900 feet. Several false trails branch off but the main route is usually pretty clear. About half way up, the trail splits but soon comes back together. At this point, the grade lessens slightly, but you’ll undoubtedly be huffing and puffing by the time you arrive at the juncture with the trail to Mugu Peak.

This route heads left, up to a saddle where another trail to Mugu Peak branches off. Stay straight, and begin a slight descent into La Jolla Valley. Here, you get a payoff for your earlier efforts. La Jolla Valley is true example of a land that time forgot. When you’re walking through the wide meadow, it’s hard to believe you’re in So Cal. Rolling hills dominate the foreground, while Boney Mountain lurks off to the northeast. Other than some satellite equipment on the hills and an occasional aircraft overhead, there are virtually no signs of civilization.

At 1.1 miles, the La Jolla Valley Loop Trail (your return route) comes in from the right. Stay straight; pass through a grove of oaks and make your way northeast. Another path branches off to the right, but you stay straight and soon arrive at the La Jolla Valley Campground. Just before you get there, you’ll cross a footbridge that may look unstable, but the plywood surface is backed up by more
solid beams underneath.

The La Jolla Valley Campground has a few shaded picnic tables. This can be a nice place to stop for a break before continuing (2.5 miles from the start). Shortly past the campground, you’ll turn right on the La Jolla Valley Loop Trail. (You can extend the trip by continuing northeast, where several other trails soon intersect.)

The La Jolla Valley Loop Trail heads south, through a canyon and past a small pond. Here you get the first real shade of the hike, mainly from tall chaparral, and a few oaks. After 1.2 miles (4 miles from the start), you’ll come to a split. The La Jolla Canyon Trail heads south toward Pacific Coast Highway, while our route heads west (right), cutting alongside the hill. You get a few glimpses of the ocean during this stretch (which is also part of the route to Mugu Peak described on this site.)

After 0.9 miles, the Mugu Peak trail branches off to the left (it’s a more challenging alternate to this route; it also eventually leads back to the Chumash Trail). Another trail heads right soon afterward, but we continue straight on the La Jolla Valley Loop Trail. It crosses a small canyon which may have some water if there’s been rain, and re-enters La Jolla Valley. At 5.7 miles from the start, you complete the loop. Head left, up the hill and out of the valley, and back toward the Chumash Trail. This is a good place to take a break and admire the scenery; it’s best to make the steep descent with fresh legs.

The variety and quality of the scenery on this trip is more proof that while Point Mugu State Park might not be terribly convenient, it’s one of the best places to hike in the Santa Monica Mountains, and well worth the effort to get there.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Santa Rosa Loop (Wildwood Park)

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Sunset from the Santa Rosa Trail

Looking north on the Santa Rosa Trail

  • Location: Corner of Avenida De Los Arboles and Big Sky Drive in Thousand Oaks.  From the 101 freeway, take the Lynn Road exit and go north for 2.5 miles.  Take a left on Avenida De Los Araboles and drive a mile to the park entrance.  Make a U-turn at the corner with Big Sky and enter the park.  From the 23 freeway, take the Olsen Road exit.  Head west for 3.5 miles (Olson becomes Lynn Road on the way), and take a right on Avenida De Los Araboles.
  • Agency: Conejo Recreation and Parks District (Phone: 805-495-6471)
  • Distance: 6.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1.000 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Distance, elevation gain)
  • Suggested time: 3 hours
  • Best season: October – May
  • USGS topo map:  Newbury Park
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat
  • More information:  here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

Most hikers know Wildwood Park in Thousand Oaks for its famous Paradise Falls, but if you’ve already seen it and want to do a more challenging route, try the Santa Rosa Loop. The bad news is that this trail never really escapes the sights or sounds of civilization nearby. The good news is that, in addition to providing a challenging workout, it also provides wide-ranging views of the Conejo Valley, the Santa Monica Mountains and the ocean, and gets close to some of the area’s characteristic geology.

From the parking lot, enter Wildwood on the Mesa fire road.  As you head west, you’ll see some large volcanic outcrops to the right.   In 0.3 miles, you’ll pass the Santa Rosa Trail, your return route (the hike can be done in either direction, but clockwise is more scenic; it also allows you to warm up your legs before the serious climbing begins.)

After about a mile, stay right as the trail to Lizard Rock (a nice side-trip) branches off.  You begin descending into Box Canyon.  A spur leads to an overlook where you get a nice view.  The trail drops steeply into the canyon, bordered by towering volcanic cliffs on both sides.  Stay right at a junction where another trail leads toward Lizard Rock.

The Canyon Trail ends at Rocky High Road, a private street (but accessible to hikers).  You follow the road for about half a mile, passing some large farm properties and picking up an unsigned single-track (the Santa Rosa Trail).  You continue heading northeast, through a somewhat monotonous stretch where you won’t much feel like you’re in nature due to the proximity of nearby Santa Rosa Road.  However, a few interesting rock formations on the right side of the trail provide some variety.

At 3.5 miles from the trail head (a mile past the end of Rocky High Road), turn right at an unsigned junction.  This is the Shooting Star Trail, which wastes no time in climbing up the north side of the Clef Mountain Ridge.  You climb 500 feet over the next mile, meeting up with the Santa Rosa Trail.  With nice views of the Los Padres National Forest to the north, this makes a good place to stop and catch your breath.

From the intersection, head left (southwest) on the Santa Rosa Trail, which follows the ridge of Mt. Clef.  Stay straight as a spur branches off to the left, leading to Wildwood Avenue.  At 5.5 miles from the start, you reach the high point of the loop (1,076 feet), where another short spur brings you to an overlook.  Here, you get nice views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the ocean, as well as a panorama of the Conejo Valley below you.

Soon afterward, you reach a junction where the Santa Rosa Trail head left and starts descending.  You make a few sharp switchbacks, weaving in between some large stone outcrops, and finally you arrive back at the Mesa Trail.  Turn left and retrace your steps 0.3 miles back to the parking lot.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Mt. Wilson Loop (via Sturtevant and Winter Creek Trails)

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View from Echo Rock near Mt. Wilson's summit


San Gabriel Peak from the western side of the Mt. Wilson Summit

Mt. Wilson Loop (via Sturtevant and Winter Creek Trails)

  • Location:  Angeles National Forest north of Arcadia.  From Interstate 210, head north on Santa Anita Avenue (right if you are coming from the east, left if you are coming from the west).  After passing through a residential area, you reach a vehicle gate.   The road starts climbing up into the mountains, and arrives at the Chantry Flats parking lot after about 3 miles.  A National Forest Service adventure pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Angeles National Forest, Los Angeles River District
  • Distance: 14  miles
  • Elevation gain: 3,900 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: R (Distance, elevation gain, steepness)
  • Suggested time: 8.5 hours
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: “Mt. Wilson”
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Los Angeles
  • More information: Trip report here; Everytrail guide here
  • Rating: 9

Even if you’ve never hiked before, if you live in Los Angeles, chances are Mt. Wilson plays a role in your life. Many L.A. radio and television stations broadcast from the 5,710-foot summit; the observatory and telescopes are also a popular tourist destination up here. You can drive to the summit, but what fun would that be?

For hikers, there are many different routes to the summit. Some hikers use the difficult Mt. Wilson trail from Sierra Madre; some continue up the toll road from Henninger Flats in Pasadena. Another popular starting point is Chantry Flats, which is described here. There are two viable routes to the top from Chantry, and this route uses them both to make a loop.

As with the Mt. Zion Loop, head downhill on the paved road as if you were going to Sturtevant Falls. The Winter Creek Trail branches off at the bottom of the hill; stay straight and head up into the canyon. Where the trail to Sturtevant Falls branches off to the right, bear left onto the Top of the Waterfall trail. (The longer trail, accessible with a hard left, is an alternative designed for horses.) The trail climbs up the side of the canyon, occasionally requiring scrambling over rocks and getting pretty close to the edge of the cliff. You get a nice view of Sturtevant Falls from above.

The two trails rejoin at Falling Sign Junction, and you continue to the right, passing the Cascade Picnic Area in 2.8 miles and the Spruce Grove Trail Camp in 3.5 miles; a good place to stop and rest.

Shortly beyond Spruce Grove, the Gabrielino Trail branches off to the right. Stay straight and take a left just before the sign to Sturtevant Camp. Carefully cross the top of a check dam, and stay right at the next junction, where the trail to Mt. Zion branches off.

At this point, Mt. Wilson is only three miles, but over 2,000 feet of elevation, away. The trail climbs steeply through the woods, still almost entirely shaded. “Halfway Rest” (really just a sign at a switchback) marks the halfway point between Sturtevant Camp and the summit. Shortly afterward, the grade becomes a little less steep, and your efforts are rewarded with glimpses of the L.A. basin below. You work you way through some manzanitas and chapparal, and finally you’ll see a metal railing above. This is Echo Rock, a large outcrop on the mountain’s east edge.

At 6.8 miles, you arrive at the Mt. Wilson summit. You can enjoy a great view from Echo Rock by walking along a fenced-in trail. At the end, you can see San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, the Saddleback, Catalina Island and more.

After taking in the view, you can walk across the summit on the road, passing by the white dome of the observatory and the telescopes. From April to October, the Cosmic Cafe is open. There’s also a short nature trail you can visit.

To continue with this loop, however, head east, past the Rim Trail, along the paved road. It leads to a big parking lot, where you can get nice views of San Gabriel Peak and points west.

From the south corner of the lot, take a trail signed for Sierra Madre and head downhill. When it joins the dirt road, take a left and continue your descent. As you go downhill, you’ll get nice views to the east.

After half a mile, look for the Mt. Wilson trail branching off to the left; the dirt road continues all the way down to Henninger Flats and Altadena. In another half mile, you come to a junction where the Mt. Wilson Trail heads left down toward Sierra Madre. There’s a bench where you can sit and enjoy the views before beginning a steep descent.

Head left on the Winter Creek Trail, which drops over 2,000 feet in the next two and a half miles. There are a few fire breaks which criss-cross the trail, but the main route descends in switchbacks. (If you end up on a fire break, odds are you’ll rejoin the trail soon). You pass by a few buildings, and soon you arrive at the junction with the trail ascending from Hoegees (on the Winter Creek Loop). You’re now three miles from Chantry Flats. Head briefly uphill (the last climbing of the trip), and follow the Winter Creek Trail to its end at the service road. Take a left and walk a half mile down the hill, back to the parking lot.

As with other famous hikes in the San Gabriels such as Mt. Baldy and Mt. Baden-Powell, climbing Mt. Wilson is a rite of passage for L.A. hikers. It’s a nice feeling to see the antennas on the peak from the L.A. basin and know that you’ve not only been there, but done it the hard way.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

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Moon over the Backbone Trail

Backbone Trail between Mulholland Highway and Etz Meloy Motorway

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

      • Location: Northwestern Santa Monica Mountains on Encinal Canyon Road.  From Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, 24.4 miles from the end of I-10, take Encinal Canyon Road for 5 miles.  Turn right to stay on Encinal Canyon and go a mile to a dirt turnout on the left side of the road (across from the fire station).  This is the parking lot for the Backbone Trail.  From Highway 101, take the Kanan Road exit and head south on Kanan Road for 6.2 miles.  Turn right on Mulholland Highway, go 0.9 miles and bear left on Encinal Canyon Road.  The parking area will be on the right in 2.4 miles.
      • Agency:  National Park Service
      • Distance: 7.2 miles
      • Elevation gain:  850 feet
      • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Distance)
      • Suggested time:  3.5 hours
      • Best season: October – June
      • USGS topo maps: Triunfo Pass; Point Dume
      • More information: here; Everytrail report here
      • Rating: 7

The 3.6 mile stretch of the Backbone Trail from Encinal Canyon Road to the Etz Meloy Motorway is one of the system’s newer segments. The lower stretch, from Encinal Canyon to Mulholland Highway, was completed in 2004; the upper stretch in 2007. As of now, parking is not available on Mulholland, but plans are in the works to change that.

This part of the trail is more popular with mountain bikers (be careful of them, because with many switchbacks, they can be hard to see) than hikers, so you’re not likely to have much company. The scenery isn’t quite as varied as it is on the Backbone sections in the nearby Point Mugu and Sandstone Peak areas, but it still takes in some nice views of the western Santa Monicas. Except for some intermittent traffic noise on the two roads, there are few sights or sounds of civilization.

From Encinal Canyon Road, the trail climbs gently to Mulholland Highway. After crossing Mulholland (there is no traffic light or cross walk, but traffic is usually light here), the Backbone passes through a meadow and starts climbing some more switchbacks. There is very little shade, although unless you are hiking at high noon, odds are the many ridges and hills in the area will block out the sun.

As you climb, the views get wider. To the east, you can see Castro Peak and the so-called “Mitten Mountain”. Finally, you reach the section’s end at the Etz Meloy motorway, where you get a nice 180-degree view to the south. This makes a good turnaround point (3.6 miles from Encinal Canyon Road).

To the right, the road heads downhill and soon reaches private property. You can, however, extend your trip by heading left (uphill). The Etz Meloy Motorway is accessible for another mile or so before reaching private land – one of the two parcels that is necessary for the National Park Service to acquire to achieve the long-held goal of creating a continuous Backbone Trail from Point Mugu to Will Rogers State Historic Park. For more information about the trail and its progress, click here.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Cabrillo Beach & Pier

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Cabrillo Beach

Waves on the breakwater at Cabrillo Beach

Cabrillo Beach & Pier

  • Location: San Pedro.  From the south end of I-110, take Gaffey Street south for 1.4 miles.  Turn left on 19th St., go 0.3 miles and turn right on Pacific Avenue.  Turn left on Stephen White Drive and head into the park.  Parking is $1 per hour (cash only) with a daily maximum of $9.
  • Agency: City of L.A. Parks & Recreation
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: Level
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  All year
  • USGS topo map: “San Pedro”
  • Recommended gear: sun hat ; sunblock
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 4

Cabrillo Beach Park is one of several popular recreational destinations in San Pedro, along with nearby Point Fermin Park and Angels Gate Park.  The beach also shares the property with the famous Cabrillo Aquarium.  Although this is not necessarily the place to go for peace and quiet (and there’s a good amount of trash and graffiti), Cabrillo Beach offers a wide range of scenery, including Old Saddleback, the San Gabriels, Catalina Island and the characteristic marine geology of the area.

From the parking area, walk along the beach toward the pier. Make your way onto the concrete pier and walk to its end. If the surf is high, you’ll get a great view of the waves crashing over the breakwater on the right.

At the end of the pier, head back, taking in nice views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula on the way. Here, depending on how high the tide is, you can walk back along beach on the opposite (south) side of the pier, with good views of Point Fermin. At the far corner of the beach, you can walk across a footbridge to the southeast side of Point Fermin, where you can sit and enjoy the sights of the ocean and the marine geology. This is a good turnaround point, although with caution in times of low tide you can make your way around the tip of Point Fermin.

To complete the loop, head back across the footbridge and walk back to the parking lot. You can extend the trip a little bit by heading north along the beach.

While Cabrillo Beach is a little bit short to be a major hiking destination, one can easily make a day of visiting the beach, the aquarium and the other parks nearby.  Film buffs might want to visit the nearby Korean Friendship Bell at Angels Gate Park, used in “The Usual Suspects.”

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Fry Creek Loop Trail

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Pines on the Fry Creek Trail

Oaks on the Fry Creek Trail

Fry Creek Loop Trail

  • Location: Cleveland National Forest near Pala.  From Interstate 15 south of Temecula, take highway 76 west for 21 miles.  Turn left on county road S-6 (South Grade Road), and head north for 7 miles.  Stay on S-6 at the junction with S-7.  Continue 2.6 miles (just past the Observatory campground) and look for the signed Fry Creek Campground on the left.  Park on the side of the road, by the gate.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Cleveland National Forest/Palomar Mountain Ranger Distridct
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 450 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Palomar Observatory
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; insect repellent
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

This short loop, almost exactly across the street from the Palomar Mountain Observatory trailhead, takes in some of the area’s attractive high country.  Despite its brevity, the hike presents a few challenges: some people might feel the effects of the thin air; also the trail has some sharp drop-offs, which can be treacherous in the winter if there is snow or ice.

From the road, walk into the campground to the bulletin board at the entrance, and head right on the signed trail. You switchback uphill, through a mix of oaks and pines that is typical for the area. Less than a quarter mile in, you’ll cross a creek which may or may not have water. The trail levels out, crossing a second creek and arriving at a road in 0.8 miles.

On the opposite side of the road, continue uphill, quickly veering to the left. A few minutes of walking over some rocks brings you to a wide, open space where several trees have been cut down. The trail begins to swing around toward the east, heading back to complete the loop. It hugs the north side of a ridge, passing through a thick grove of pines that may remind hikers of the San Jacintos near Idyllwild or perhaps the slopes of Mt. Wilson.

At 1.8 miles, the trail makes a hairpin turn to the left and descends, arriving back at the paved road. Turn right and complete the loop. The Fry Creek Loop trail makes a nice side-trip if you’ve come to visit the Palomar Mountain Observatory Trail or the state park nearby.

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Top 11 hikes of ’11!

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Greetings hikers – I hope that 2011 was a great year for you on the trails and off.  As this year winds down, I’ll share with you my 11 favorite hikes I did in 2011.  Maybe some will be familiar to you; maybe some will be targets for you in 2012.  Perhaps you might disagree with some of my selections – respectful discourse is always welcome here at www.nobodyhikesinla.com.  Here are the top 11 hikes of 2011.  Enjoy!

Looking southwest from Smith Mountain

Desert view from the Cedar Springs Trail, San Jacinto Mountains

Icicles in Malibu on the Backbone Trail in Newton Canyon, February

#11) Sandberg/Golden Eagle Loop - while it may be a drive for many L.A. residents, the unusual desert/mountain landscapes of this loop in a remote corner of the Angeles National Forest are well worth a visit.

#10) Old Boney Loop - this 10-mile loop through Point Mugu State Park’s rugged back country features wide-ranging mountain and valley views, secluded canyons and a seasonal waterfall.

#9) Newton Canyon Waterfalls - speaking of waterfalls, if there’s been heavy rain, you get to see two on this section of the Backbone Trail, which visits some of the most attractive lands in the Santa Monica Mountains.

#8) Manzanita Mountain - on a clear day, this 3,100-foot peak shows off some phenomenal views of the Antelope Valley.  The approach through Placerita Canyon is part of the fun, too.

#7) Wildhorse Creek Trail Camp - great views of San Gorgonio Mountain and Sugarloaf are highlights of this 8-mile hike in the San Bernardino National Forest.

#6) Cedar Springs - one the best hikes on the Desert Divide, this challenging trip up the spine of the San Jacinto Mountains has great desert views on one side and forest views on the other.

#5) Devil’s Canyon - recently re-opened after the Station Fire, the Devil’s Canyon is a classic San Gabriel Mountains hike, visiting some of the most remote country in the range.

#4) Throop Peak - this 9,100-foot summit provides great views of the back country of the Angeles National Forest, in particular Mt. Baldy.

#3) Ontario Peak - like neighboring Cucamonga Peak, Ontario features dramatic views of the Inland Empire, the Santa Anas, the San Jacintos and more; and it shares the scenic (and challenging) approach through Icehouse Canyon.

#2) Smith Mountain - one of the unsung gems of the Angeles, Smith’s dramatically steep climb to the summit yields some amazing 360-degree views.

#1) Mt. Williamson - with views of the high desert, the L.A. basin and more, a strong case could be made for Mt. Williamson as being the second-most scenic peak in the Angeles behind Baldy.  Some might even argue that this 8,214-foot summit is #1 in the San Gabriels.  It’s #1 for the NHLA’s 2011 season, in any case.

So there we are – out of nearly 200 hikes posted in this blog, these are the cream of the crop.  Thank you readers, and have a happy new year!

Piedra Blanca

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The sandstone formations of Piedra Blanca

Crossing Sespe Creek in the Los Padres National Forest

Piedra Blanca

      • Location: Los Padres National Forest north of Ojai.  From the town of Ojai, drive 15 miles north on highway 33 (a total of 28 miles from Highway 101.)  Turn right on Rose Valley Road and drive 6.5 miles to the Piedra Blanca trailhead.  Park at the campground and pick up the Sespe Creeek trail at the end of the lot. A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
      • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
      • Distance: 2.8 miles
      • Elevation gain: 500 feet
      • Difficulty Rating: PG
      • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
      • Best season:  October – June
      • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
      • Recommended gear: hiking poles  (for stream crossings)
      • More information:  here
      • Rating: 8

If one were to mix the unusual geology of Vasquez Rocks with the wide desert and mountain views of the Desert Divide south of the San Jacintos, the result might be something like this hike in the Los Padres National Forest. While Piedra Blanca may be something of a drive for most L.A. area hikers, it’s worth a visit, especially if you have enough time to combine it with other hikes in the area.

From the end of the Lion Campground, pick up the Sespe Creek trail, which starts by the information board and the restrooms. Even from here, you can see your destination: the huge sandstone outcrops that stick out from the desert floor, a mile away as the crow flies. The trail crosses the creek three times, which can be a little tricky if the water level is high (rocks and logs are usually put together to form makeshift bridges, and hiking poles will help too.)

Shortly after the third crossing, you’ll come to a split. Head left and begin climbing, taking in nice aerial views of the creek as you ascend. Head right at the next intersection, and soon you’ll find yourself with great up-close views of the sandstone slabs.

At 1.4 miles from the campground, the trail dips downward. It continues another mile toward Piedra Blanca Camp, and then deeper into the Sespe Wilderness, options if you want to extend the trip. However, for this route, the saddle here marks the turnaround point. With care, you can scramble up one of the formations and take in nice views of the Sespe Creek area to the south and the wilderness to the north before heading back.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Whitewater Canyon Preserve: Canyon Ridge Loop

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Crossing the Whitewater River (note trail on the other side)

Geology in Whitewater Canyon

Whitewater Canyon Preserve: Canyon Ridge Loop

  • Location: East of Banning and Cabazon; northwest of Palm Springs.  From I-10, take the Whitewater Canyon Road exit.  Turn left on Tipton, cross the freeway and turn right on Whitewater Canyon Road.  Almost immediately, make a left to stay on Whitewater Canyon Road and drive 4.5 miles to the end.  From Palm Springs, take the Whitewater Canyon Exit, turn right on Tipton and right on Whitewater Canyon Road.
  • Agency:  Wildlands Conservancy
  • Distance:  3.2 miles
  • Elevation gain:  600 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
  • Best season: October – April (8am – 5pm)
  • USGS topo map: Whitewater, Morongo Valley, Catclaw Flats
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Inland Empire
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 7

Snowmelt from the east side of San Gorgonio and some of So-Cal’s other highest peaks has carved a wide canyon in the desert, with dramatic results.  Hikers who visit the Whitewater Canyon Preserve may be at points reminded of the Alaskan glaciers and of the Grand Canyon–all a two hour drive from Los Angeles, and less than an hour from Riverside, San Bernardino and Palm Springs.

From the information board, follow the signed trail north, into the canyon.  A sign on a rock informs you that Mexico is 219 miles away and Canada is 2,446 miles away.

The trail, easy to follow because it is bordered with rocks on both sides, heads up along the Whitewater Canyon wash.  Soon, the service road continues ahead while the trail branches off to the left.  You get to your first creek crossing (see photo) where you will turn right and briefly follow the banks of the water before picking up the trail on the other side.  Unless the water level is unusually high, this should not be a problem.

After reaching the other side of the wash, you arrive at a junction where the Pacific Crest Trail continues northward. To continue on the loop, take a hairpin turn to the left and head south. The P.C.T. now climbs steeply, but as it does, you’re rewarded for your efforts with great aerial views of the Whitewater River.

In 0.7 miles, you reach the top of the ridge and arrive at another fork. The P.C.T. continues south; our route, the Canyon Ridge Loop, heads to the left. For a while, the trail follows the top of the ridge. You get a 270-degree view here, which includes San Jacinto Peak and the Santa Rosa Mountains to the south, and the canyon to the east. A spur on the left leads to a scenic overlook which makes a nice rest spot.

Soon, the trail begins its descent, switchbacking down the ridge and meeting up with the road, half a mile south of the reserve. You can complete the loop on the road, or if you prefer, after the road crosses the bridge, you can take a signed single-track trail that leads to the picnic area and then back to the ranger station.

If you want a more ambitious hike, you can head north on the P.C.T. and make the 8-mile trip to the nearby Mission Creek Preserve. If that’s not enough of a challenge, there’s always Mexico and Canada.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

West Shadow Hills Loop

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Looking north from the Shadow Hills

Mt. Lukens and the San Gabriels from the Shadow Hills

West Shadow Hills Loop

    • Location: North of Burbank, between La Tuna Canyon Road and Sunland Blvd.  From I-5, take the Sunland Blvd. exit.  Head north for 0.8 miles and turn right on La Tuna Canyon.  Go 0.6 miles and turn left on Ledge Ave.  Park on the corner of Ledge and Horse Haven.  From I-210, take the La Tuna Canyon exit and head west for 4 miles.  Turn right on Ledge Ave.
    • Agency:  County of Los Angeles
    • Distance: 4.5 miles
    • Elevation gain: 1,100 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Steepness, elevation gain)
    • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
    • Best season: November-  April
    • USGS topo map:  Burbank
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat
    • More information: Shadow Hills Wikipedia page here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 6

Poking up between the Verudgo Mountains and the Angeles National Forest, the Shadow Hills aren’t exactly a household name for L.A. hikers, but they do sport a nice variety of trails and are well worth a visit if you’re in the area, especially if the air is clear. On ideal days, you can see the Santa Monica Mountains, the Verugos, the Santa Susana and the Hollywood Hills. The area also has some of the best up-close views of the San Gabriels in all of L.A., especially of Mount Lukens.

Although there does not seem to be any formal system of trails here, navigation is pretty easy, and there a variety of routes that hikers can take. The figure-8 loop described here is a good workout with nice views. Some hikers may be turned off by the fact that there is over a mile of walking on streets, but this route doesn’t have to be followed exactly.

From the corner of Horse Haven and Ledge, look for a bridle trail heading steeply uphill. You climb almost 500 feet in half a mile before the trail levels out somewhat. Stay straight as two other trails branch off (you will use both of these paths later) and follow the ridge, passing the north side of two knolls. Here, you get great views of the north San Fernando Valley.

A mile and a half from the start, you come to an attractive meadow. Look for an obscure trail making a hairpin turn to the left, and take it. (You can continue on the ridge route if you want to extend the hike.) Now, you head downhill, with some great views of the western end of the San Gabriels, and 1.9 miles from the start, you reach Shadow Way, a residential street and alternative trailhead. Follow Shadow Way downhill to Shadow Island. Take a left and continue your descent to Sunland Blvd. Here, you have to cross the street (there’s a stoplight) and head left on a bridle path.

After half a mile on Sunland (2.8 miles from the start), you reach Rotto Avenue. There is no stoplight here, but traffic is usually pretty light (you can continue 0.4 miles down Sunland to cross at the light at Wheatland, if you prefer.) On the south side of Sunland, Rotto wastes no time ascending, soon terminating at a fire road. The climb continues, providing nice views of the eastern end of the San Fernando Valley. The trail rejoins your previous route, 3.7 miles from the start. Head left and almost immediately take a right on one of the other trails you saw earlier. (You can continue straight and retrace your steps to Ledge Avenue if you prefer). You descend through a canyon, with nice views of Mt. Lukens on the left. The trail splits (both routes end up at Horse Haven, but the right one is shorter). At Horse Haven, follow the bridle path on the north side of the street 0.3 miles back to your car.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Rose Valley Falls

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Rose Valley Falls

On the trail to Rose Valley Falls

Rose Valley Falls

  • Location: North of Ojai in the Los Padres National Forest.  From the town of Ojai, head north on highway 33 for 14 miles (25 miles from Highway 101 in Ventura) to Rose Valley Road.  Turn right and go 3.1 miles to Rose Valley Lake Road.  Turn right and drive 0.3 miles to the end of the road and park in the campground by the signed trailhead to Rose Valley falls.   A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
  • Distance: 0.8
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Suggested time: 45 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season: Year round (best after recent rain)
  • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
  • More information: Trip reports here and here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

This is one of Southern California’s tallest–and most unusual looking–waterfalls.  Unfortunately, the spectacular upper tier, visible from the campground, is not easily accessible to hikers; the short walk through the woods brings you to the lower tier, which is not a bad consolation prize.  Even if there’s not much water–which there isn’t as of this writing–the limestone and sandstone cliffs, underneath the shade of oaks, is a nice spot for a picnic or to hang out and enjoy nature.

From the end of the campground, begin hiking uphill on the signed trail.  After crossing the creek, the trail continues to climb, mostly in the shade, occasionally providing a glimpse of the upper level of the falls.  The trail rises above the creek, passing over a smaller waterfall.   Soon, you arrive at the bottom level.  There are a few rocks that you can climb to get a good view of it.

Obviously, Rose Valley Falls is a very short hike to do if you’re driving a long way to get to the Los Padres National Forest, but there are quite a few other good trails in the area to check out, such as Potrero John and Piedras Blancas.  With time off for the upcoming holidays, and traffic likely to be lighter than usual, L.A. hikers might want to consider making a trip up here to check out Rose Valley Falls and some of its neighbors.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Sycamore Park to Deer Canyon Preserve (Anaheim Hills)

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Sierra Peak from the Four Corners Trail, Anaheim Hills

Sycamore Park to Deer Canyon Preserve (Anaheim Hills)

    • Location: Sycamore Park, 8101 Dream St., Anaheim Hills.  From the 91 freeway, go south on Weir Canyon Road for 0.4 miles.  Turn right on Monte Vista, go 0.2 miles and turn left onto Dream St. and park anywhere.
    • Agency:  City of Anaheim/County of Orange
    • Distance: 4.4 miles
    • Elevation gain: 650 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 2 hours
    • Best season: All year (hot during the summer)
    • USGS topo maps: Orange; Black Star Canyon
    • More information: Sycamore Park here; Deer Canyon Preserve here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 4

This route combines several neighborhood trials in Anaheim Hills to create a hike that provides a good workout and a nice variety of scenery.  It’s not quite as isolated as the nearby Oak Canyon or Weir Canyon parks, but it’s still well worth a visit if you’re in the area.  It can also easily be shortened or lengthened as you see fit.

From the end of Dream Street, follow the fire road leading south along Sycamore Park’s east side. The trail makes a short but steep climb and then descends to Canyon Creek Road, which you will cross. There’s no stoplight or crosswalk, but traffic is likely to be light. (You can also turn left and go a quarter mile east to cross at the intersection with Serrano).

On the opposite side of Canyon Creek Road, pick up the Four Corners Trail, which heads right, following the street. In a quarter mile, you’ll cross Sunset Ridge, and the trail heads downhill, half a mile, to the end of Hollow Oak Road. This brings you to the 103-acre Deer Canyon Preserve; it’s also an alternate trailhead if you want to make a shorter trip.

Inside the park, head left (the right fork takes you to the northern end of the preserve, which has some trails but is less scenic). The paved trail heads south into Deer Canyon. At first, it might not seem like much of a nature experience, but the sounds of civilization disappear as you get farther into the park. There are a few side-trails that branch off and run parallel to the main one.

Soon, as the trail bends to the east, you pass by a picnic area. Shortly afterward, you’ll reach a fork. The paved road continues, eventually reaching a water tank, but for a more scenic trip, turn right onto the Anaheim Hills Trail, now a fire road. It makes a moderately steep ascent, soon splitting (the trails soon re-unite), and finally, 2.2 miles from Sycamore Park, you arrive at Canyon Rim Road, the turnaround point. Here, you can head north on Canyon Rim for a short distance to get a nice view of the Walnut Creek Reservoir.

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

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Tachevah Falls

On the North Lykken Trail

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

    • Location: Palm Springs.  From I-10, take the Highway 111 exit and head southeast for 9.5 miles and turn right on Via Escuela.  Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Via Norte.  Go 0.2 miles and turn right on Chino Canyon Road.  Turn left on Panorama Road and go 0.3 miles.  Bear left onto Cielo Drive and take a left on a spur (it will look as if you are going into private property, but you are not).  At the end of the spur, between a tennis court and a cactus garden, park and begin on the North Lykken Trail.
    • Agency: Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
    • Distance: 4 miles
    • Elevation gain: 900 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Steepness, terrain, trail condition)
    • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
    • Best season:  October – April, daylight only (waterfall access: October – December)
    • USGS topo maps: “Palm Springs”
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat; long sleeve shirt and pants
    • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Inland Empire
    • More information: trip report here; Everytrail report here 
    • Rating: 7

Most people don’t associate waterfalls with Palm Springs, and those who do usually think of Tahquitz Canyon. However, Inland Empire hikers won’t want to miss Tachevah Falls, which, despite being dry most of the year, is very visually striking. Add a huge variety of scenery on the North Lykken trail – including panoramic views of Palm Springs, interesting geology and desert vegetation – and you have one of the more entertaining hikes in the area.

From the end of the spur off Cielo Drive, the North Lykken trail (named for former Palm Springs postmaster and businessman Carl Lykken) wastes no time in climbing 300 feet to a ridge. Here, hikers can relax at some picnic tables before continuing on. The trail dips down and closely hugs the side of the Santa Rosas. Terrain can be a little tricky here, although the route should be fairly obvious. After passing by a false trail that branches off down the hill to the left, and passing the mouth of a wide canyon, you arrive at a junction, 1.6 miles from the start. Here, the Lykken Trail continues (somewhat obscurely) to the left, and a spur heads off to the right, where you get your first look at Tachevah Falls.

According to “Afoot and Afield”, access is only legal from October to December, although I did not see any signs indicating this while actually on the trail. Still, if you are visiting during another time of the year and don’t want to take your chances, this can be a good turnaround point; the views are pretty dramatic. You can also continue on the North Lykken Trail, climbs out of the canyon and up to a junction with the Museum Trail and the infamous Skyline Trail that eventually leads to the San Jacinto summit.

If you want to see the falls more closely, follow the trail to the right up into the canyon. The trail follows the wash of Tachevah Creek, sometimes going in and out of it. You may find yourself climbing over rocks and pushing aside bushes, including some thorny mesquite (hence the long shirt/pants recommendation), but usually the trail won’t be too hard to find. The huge rock wall ahead will help with your orientation. The only real navigational point to remember is, when you pass a huge boulder on the right (about a quarter mile into the canyon), head uphill to the left on a trail that steeply ascends the southern wall of the canyon. A bit more climbing gets you to the waterfall, where your best views are from a rock shortly in front of it. Although water is likely to be only trickling here, the unusual rock surface – striped in beige, brown, white, gray and black from years of sedimentary buildup – is well worth the effort it takes to get there. Tachevah rivals Black Star Canyon for being one of the most distinctive looking waterfalls in So Cal, and unlike its Orange County counterpart, this one’s appearance is completely natural. And there’s no poison oak to deal with on the way down, either.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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Crossing the creek in Dark Canyon on the Backbone Trail

Sandstone geology on the west ridge of Saddle Peak

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

    • Location: Piuma Road, near Malibu Creek State Park.  From Pacific Coast Highway, take Malibu Canyon Road north for 4.6 miles.  Turn right on Piuma.  In 1.2 miles, at a hairpin turn in the road, look for a small dirt turnout on the left (next to a driveway at the address 25575 Piuma Road.)  Park here to access the Backbone Trail.  From Highway 101, drive south on Las Virgenes for five miles and turn left on Piuma.
    • Agency:  National Park Service
    • Distance: 6.8 miles
    • Elevation gain:  1,400 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Elevation gain, distance)
    • Suggested time:  3.5 hours
    • Best season: October – June
    • USGS topo maps: Malibu Beach
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles
    • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Los Angeles
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 7

This lightly-traveled section of the Backbone Trail features a lot of the types of scenery that draws people to the Santa Monica Mountains: panoramic views, interesting geology, quiet and shaded canyons and more. This part of the trail alone is quite a good workout, but if you really want to challenge yourself, you can continue on to Saddle Peak.

From the small turnout on Piuma Road, head northeast on the Backbone Trail. Stay right at a junction and head downhill, soon coming to a creek that is a tributary of nearby Cold Canyon. After crossing the creek, the trail begins a fairly steep ascent, switchbacking up out of the canyon. For the most part, the terrain isn’t too tough here, but there a few places where the hiking poles will come in handy. As you climb, you’re rewarded for your efforts with nice views of the Goat Buttes of Malibu Creek State Park.

Soon the trail levels out, entering a meadow on the southwest side of Saddle Peak. Across the canyon, you get a great view of the peak’s interesting sandstone geology. After climbing some more, the trail enters another nice shaded area, covered by oaks and chaparral.

Shortly afterward, you arrive at the junction with the trail to Saddle Peak. If you want to continue onto Saddle Peak, turn right. This route, however, stays left and continues 0.3 miles to Stunt Road. During this last stretch, you get nice views of nearby Calabasas Peak. Stunt Road itself might seem a little anti-climatic as a destination, but on this hike, the variety of scenery and the relative isolation makes the journey itself the real reward.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Potrero John Trail

Posted on by dlockeretz

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Crossing the creek

Pines on the Potrero John Trail

Potrero John Trail

    • Location: Los Padres National Forest, north of Ojai. From the 101 freeway, take highway 33 north for 34 miles (21 miles north of Ojai and 6 miles north of the intersection with Rose Valley Road).  After crossing a bridge, you’ll see the sign for the Potrero John Trail.  Park at the side of the road in a a small dirt turnout.
    • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
    • Distance: 3.4 miles
    • Elevation gain: 500 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 2 hours
    • Best season:  October – June
    • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles
    • More information: trip report here; Eveytrail report here
    • Rating: 8

This short trail in the Sespe Wilderness area of the Los Padres National Forest may be a little bit of a drive for most L.A. hikers, but it’s well worth checking out. This time of year, when snow dusts the rugged peaks above the canyon, the trail is particularly attractive.

From the small turnout, the Potrero John Trail heads down to the creek. For the next mile or so, you follow the water, crossing it several times. None of the crossings are particularly tricky, but you should always exercise caution, especially if the water level is high. There are a few fallen trees to climb around too, but overall the going is not to difficult. The scenic highlights include distant views of the higher Los Padres peaks, interesting sandstone on the canyon walls and the trickling stream.

After about a mile, the trail leaves the tight confines of the canyon and enters a field. (“Potrero”, by the way, is Spanish for meadow.) There are a few spots where the trail becomes a little ambiguous, but the main route shouldn’t be too hard to find. You make a couple of more creek crossings, and eventually you’ll see the campground across the water. The trail peters out at this point; you can either make this your turnaround point or ford the creek and sit at the Potrero John campground, under the shade of some giant oaks, before heading back.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

You’ve made our year in 2011. How can we do the same for you in 2012?

Posted on by dlockeretz

We would like to thank our readers for making 2011, the first full year of www.nobodyhikesinla.com’s existence, a huge success.  With over 250 subscribers, well over 100,000 total page views and more and more hiking information posted, 2011 was the first of what we hope will be many banner years for this site.

But N.H.L.A. will not rest on its laurels in 2012; rather it will continue its quest to be So Cal’s best resource on hiking information.  To that end, here is our first reader’s poll, in which you are invited to provide feedback about what additions or changes you might like to see in 2012.  Additional suggestions are welcome, too.  Thanks for reading, thanks for your feedback – and see you on the trails!

San Clemente Beach & Pier

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View from the San Clemente Pier (Click picture to purchase from the N.H.L.A. Gallery)

Geology on the beach at San Clemente

San Clemente Beach & Pier

  • Location: San Clemente.  From Orange County, take I-5 south to Ave. Calafia.  Merge onto Ave. Calafia and bear right onto Ave. Montalvo (a one-way street).  Montalvo becomes Ave. Lobeiro.  Park along the curb at Calafia Park (0.3 miles from the freeway).  Parking is limited to two hours.  From San Diego, take I-5 north to Ave. Magdalena.  Turn right onto El Camino Real, take another right and cross over the freeway, and turn left on Avenida Del Presidente.  Turn right onto Ave. Calafia and bear right onto Ave. Montalvo.
  • Agency: San Clemente State Beach; City of San Clemente
  • Distance: 4.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours (as restricted by the street parking)
  • Best season: Year round
  • Recomended gear: sun hat ; sunblock
  • USGS topo map: San Clemente
  • More information: San Clemente State Beach info here; San Clemente Pier “Yelp” page here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

Located at the very southern tip of Orange County, San Clemente has miles of beaches that feature both panoramic ocean views and interesting marine geology.  There are a number of trails and access points, and many possible routes for walking and hiking.  The loop described here takes in the nice variety of scenery this area offers. If you don’t mind walking on a bike path, a boardwalk and alongside railroad tracks, you’ll find this hike very enjoyable.

From Calafia Park, head down the stairs to the beach parking area. On the opposite side of the lot, head southeast along a path between the railroad tracks and the bluffs. The marine geology on the left is worth a closer look. Soon, turn left on a paved road heading up to the state beach parking lot. You get nice views of the ocean, up to Dana Point and beyond. After crossing the parking lot, descend on another paved path. This one goes underneath the railroad tracks and arrives at the beach. Turn right and head northwest.

The next mile and a half is an enjoyable walk along the beach to the pier. The going is pretty easy. At the pier, you can head out onto the ocean and get great views of the coastline–and enjoy a snack at one of the shops.

On the return trip, for variety, try walking along the San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail. You’ll cross the railroad tracks once and get some more nice, up-close views of the cliffs before arriving back at the parking lot, where you can retrace your steps to the car. While some veteran hikers might not like the amount of company they’ll have on this route, or the fact that civilization is everywhere, most will find that the scenic variety and panoramic views makes the San Clemente beach well worth the visit.

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.