Category Archives: Difficulty G

Nice, non-threatning family hikes and nature walks.

Mesa Lila Extension Trail (Henderson Canyon)

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On the Mesa Lila Extension 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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Mesa Lila Extension Trail (Henderson Canyon)

  • Location: North Glendale.  From I-210, take the Pennsylvania Ave. exit and head south for 0.5 miles.  Just after the road bares right and becomes Honolulu Ave, take a right on Whiting Woods Road.  Take a quick left on El Lado Drive and a quick right on Mesa Lila Road.  Park at the end of Mesa Lila Road (note that there is no parking allowed between 7am and 4pm on Mondays).
  • Agency:  Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
  • Distance: 1.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map:  Burbank
  • Recommended gear: sun hat
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 2

The fire-road extension of residential Mesa Lila Road provides Glendale hikers with a quick, convenient workout.  This isn’t the place for solitude – the street noise is hard to ignore, as are the overhead power lines – but the scenery includes a nice mix of the Verdugo and San Gabriel Mountains, and the urban landscape of Glendale and Burbank.

From the end of Mesa Lila Road, head up the fire road into Henderson Canyon.  Stay left as a false trail branches off, and follow the road as it makes a steady ascent.  In half a mile, the trail makes a hairpin turn, ascends some more and levels out at a small clearing.  Here, a giant support beam helps hold up the power lines above.  If you don’t mind this, you’re sure to enjoy a panoramic view of the canyons below and the Verdugo Peaks above.

Like the nearby Oakmont Loop, this is a good trail to visit when summer heat makes hiking in the San Fernando Valley difficult.  For non-hikers or newbies, it’s a good introduction to the outdoor areas that are just beyond the edge  of  the suburbs.

Whitney Canyon

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In Whitney Canyon

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Whitney Canyon

  • Location: Santa Clarita.  From the 14 Freeway, take the Newhall Ave. exit.  If you’re coming from the south, turn right; the north, left, and drive to the end of the street and park in the dirt lot.  (If the lot is full, you may need to use the lower lot, where there is a $5 fee.)
  • Agency: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 100 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo maps: Oat Mountain, San Fernando
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 5

No, it’s not that Whitney.

Located just off the 14 freeway, Whitney Canyon in Santa Clarita is proof that residents of the San Fernando and Antelope Valleys need not travel far to escape the summer heat.

While the trail takes a little while to escape the noise of the freeway, before long, it’s going to be hard to believe you’re as close to civilization as you are.   From the lower parking lot, follow the trail into Whitney Canyon.  Stay left as the Santa Clarita Divide Road branches off, and stay left again as a smaller trail splits.  The fire road becomes a single-track as you make your way east under the cover of oaks, accompanied by the sound of the seasonal Whitney Canyon Creek.

You cross two sets of power lines, and after the second, look for a crumbling stone wall on the right.  Here, another canyon comes in, and you can get a look at a small marsh, and perhaps see (and smell) the sulfur spring within it.

At a mile in, this spot makes a good turnaround point.  If you want to extend the hike, head left and continue along the creek, crossing it a few times.  Passage becomes trickier the farther you go, so be your own judge.

If the weather is cool enough and you have time and energy, you can check out the Santa Clarita Divide Road, which ascends into the Angeles National Forest and hooks up with the Manzanita Mountain Loop–gaining almost 2,000 feet along the way.

San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary: South Loop

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Pond at the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary: South Loop

  • Location: 5 Riparian View, Irvine.   From the 405 Freeway, take the Jamboree exit.  Go south for 0.9 miles on Jamboree, turn left on Campus.  Drive a mile to University, make a U-turn and turn right on Riparian View, and follow the signs to the parking area.
  • Agency:  Sea and Sage Audubon Society
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: Level
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “Tustin”
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 2

Like the Madrona Marsh of Torrance, the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary offers a quick and convenient urban escape, where people can walk in nature and check out some marshlands and wildlife.  Although it’s hard to ignore the sounds of the nearby 405 freeway and Jamboree Road, the trees block out much of the urban landscape.

There are quite a few trails to choose from here.  The South Loop, which is 1.4 miles, tours a few of the sanctuary’s large ponds.  To get there, walk through the garden where interpretive plaques describe some of the wildlife in the area and provide interesting trivia (such as that bees in some way effect one out of every three bites of food we take.)

After strolling through the garden, you pick up the South Loop Trail.  It can be hiked in either direction.  Along the way, you pass several side trails that you can explore, although the main route should be obvious.  There area  few spots where the trees open and you can get a nice look at the ponds.  The South Loop circles ponds 1, 2 and 5, and passes by 3, before returning.  (You can pick up a map in the garden to follow your route, and check out some of the other trails in the park.)

It should come as no surprise that the sanctuary doesn’t present much of a wilderness experience, but for busy commuters who want to get out into nature on their lunch break or before or after work, it’s perfect.  Even veteran hikers should keep this trail in mind for beating the summer heat and getting their outdoor fix between bigger trips.

Badlands Trail (Laguna Niguel)

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Ocean view from Badlands Park

Looking south toward Dana Point

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Badlands Trail (Laguna Niguel)

  • Location: Laguna Niguel.  From I-5, take the Alicia Parkway exit.  Drive 5.9 miles to Pacific Island Drive and turn right.  Go 1.7 miles and turn right on Ocean Way.  Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Isle Vista.  The street ends at a gated community but parking is available on the curb.  Walk to a staircase just before the gate, that leads up to the park.  From Pacific Coast Highway, take Crown Valley Parkway 0.8 miles.  Turn left on Pacific Island Drive and left onto Ocean Way.
  • Agency: City of Laguna Niguel/County of Orange
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 150 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
  • Recommended guidebook: Day Hikes Around Orange County
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 5

For most people, the name “Badlands” conjures up images of rugged rock formations in the western plains of Nebraska and South Dakota.  However, the badlands of Laguna Niguel, while not as famous as those in the midwest, are well worth a visit if you’re in the area.  You can also expect some panoramic ocean views as well.From the end of Isle Vista, walk up a staircase and take a left on the Seaview Trail.  (The trail continues to the right, an option if you want to extend the hike.)   Head right at a staircase that heads down to the park, where you can see the interesting rock formations.  The Badlands Trail continues on the left, working its way around the backs of the houses in the gated community.  You get great views to the north, including Aliso Peak and the distant Palos Verdes Peninsula, and when you round a bend, you can see farther south, past Dana Point andtoward San Diego.  A rough trail branches off to the right, where you can descend to a clearing where you get closer views of the ocean.The main trail continues, passing the end of the residential street Monarch Crest, and continues southeast for a little ways, over the top of a steep and deep canyon.  Just over half a mile from the park, you arrive at a sign indicating the end of the county trail.  Here you can enjoy nice views of the southern end of the Santa Ana Mountains and Dana Point before heading back.

The Badlands Trail is a great way for people who are new to hiking to explore some of Orange County’s great scenery, and even veterans will be impressed by the ocean views and unique geology.  True, the trail never escapes the sights and sounds of the residential community nearby or P.C.H. below, but it’s a good one to keep in mind if you only have a little bit time.  The coming summer heat is another reason to keep this trail in mind.

Bronson Caves

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Looking out from inside Bronson Caves

Outside Bronson Caves

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.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Bronson Caves

  • Location: Griffith Park.  From Los Angeles, take the 101 freeway to Gower Street (exit 8C), take the Beachwood Drive ramp, stay straight and go right on Franklin.  After half a mile, take a left on Canyon Drive, follow it to the end and park.  From the Valley, take the Vine exit off highway 101 and keep left at the fork to get to Franklin.
  • Agency: Griffith Park
  • Distance: 0.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 50 feet
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “Burbank”
  • More information: here; trip report with photos here
  • Rating: 4

The Bronson Caves of Griffith Park is probably best known as the Batcave and has also been used in dozens of movies, including the original “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”, “Scorpion King” and more.  Fans of the Doors may recognize the caves from the famous photo of Jim Morrison and his wife Pam that was taken here.  The caves can be reached by a short hike, which is a good way for novice hikers to get out into nature and experience L.A.’s wild side.  It’s also a pleasant surprise for veteran hikers, showcasing the type of geology that one usually has to drive far outside the city to see.  Much of the geological scenery is man made (the “caves” are really a tunnel that used to be a quarry), but like Black Star Canyon’s waterfall, this is an example of how the human presence can sometimes make scenery more interesting.

From the parking area, head uphill on a fire road heading southeast.  The trail rounds a bend and reaches a junction.  Head left, and you’ll see the first entrance to the cave.  You can access the other side by continuing along the fire road.  The cave may make some people nervous, but once you get inside, there’s plenty of room, and light from several smaller openings make it easy to see where you’re going.

If the weather is hot and your time is short, just going to the cave and back can be a good destination, but if you’re up for a challenge, try climbing to the Hollywood Sign via the Brush Canyon trail.  In case you were wondering, Bronson Caves are named after the nearby Bronson St., which also inspired the screen name of Charles Bronson.

Big Pines Nature Trail

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On the Big Pines 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.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Big Pines Nature Trail

  • Location: Big Pines.  From I-15, take the highway 138 exit and head west for 8.6 miles.  Turn left on Angeles Crest Highway (route 2) and drive 9 miles to the center of town.  Park at the visitor center at the intersection with Big Pines Highway, or across the street at the Blue Ridge trailhead.  A National Forest Service adventure pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency:  Angeles National Forest/Santa Clara and Mojave Rivers Ranger District
  • Distance: 0.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season: Year-round
  • USGS topo map:  Mescal Creek
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Los Angeles County
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 4
This short loop makes a nice introduction to the back country of the Angeles National Forest, especially for those not used to hiking at this altitude (almost 7,000 feet).  It can easily be combined with other nearby hikes, such as Lightning Ridge or Big Horn Mine.
Climb the stairs in back of the visitor’s center (as of this writing, they’re doing some construction on the front of the building, but you can still access the trail by going around).  Take a right and begin the loop.  Interpretive plaques describe the trees, which include Coulter and Jeffery pines and black oaks.  The views aren’t quite what they are from the nearby Lightning Ridge trail, but you still get a nice feel for the area.
The trail crosses a road, continues to climb, and then makes its descent.  You cross the road a second time (follow the signs) and soon arrive back at the visitor center.

Gum Grove Park

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Super Macro Lens fun in Gum Grove Park

On the trail in Gum Grove Park

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.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Gum Grove Park

  • Location: Seal Beach.  From Pacific Coast Highway, go northeast (right if you’re coming from the south, left if from the north) on 5th St.  Take an immediate left on Coastline, a quick right on Catalina and a left on Avalon and drive to the end of the street.  The trail can also be accessed from the parking lot on Heron St. at Seal Beach Blvd.
  • Agency:  Los Cerritos Wetlands
  • Distance: 1.2 miles
  • Elevation gain Level – 100 feet
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map:  Seal Beach
  • More information: here; video of walking dogs in the park here
  • Rating: 1

Though it is not very well known outside the area, Gum Grove Park of Seal Beach is a popular destination for dog walking, bird watching and seeing springtime wildflowers.  Located between a residential neighborhood and an industrial area of Long Beach, the small park provides a nice, shady getaway.

From the parking area, you can head east on either a dirt fire road or, for a more enjoyable trip, on a single-track trail that leads under the trees.  The path splits several times, heading up the slight incline in some places and down toward the fire road in others, but all routes eventually join up again, so pick whichever you want.

After half a mile, the trail leaves the woods and comes to a split.  The main road continues toward the parking area off of Seal Beach Blvd., the turnaround point, but you can also extend your walk by visitin the Heron Pointe cultural center.  Here, interpretive plaques describe the history of the area.

Though it’s not a hike, per se, the nearby old town area of Seal Beach and its pier make a great stop either before or after visiting Gum Grove.   Hardcore veteran hikers will probably not need to treat Gum Grove as a “must do”, but for people who want to get their kids–or themselves–off the couch and out into nature, it’s an enjoyable and accessible place to do so.

Lightning Ridge Nature Trail

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Mt. Baden-Powell from the Lighting Ridge Nature Trail

Mt. Baldy from the Lightning Ridge 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.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Lightning Ridge Nature Trail

  • Location: Angeles National Forest near Big Pines.  From the 15 freeway, take the Highway 138 exit and head west for 8.6 miles.  Turn left on highway 2 (Angeles Crest) and go 10.6 miles to the Pacific Crest Trail turnout and park in the lot.  A National Forest Service adventure pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required to park here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Angeles National Forest, Santa Clara and Mojave Rivers Ranger District
  • Distance: 0.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season: April-November
  • USGS topo map: “Mt. San Antonio”
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Los Angeles County
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 6

This is a short but thoroughly enjoyable loop hike on the Angeles Crest Highway near Big Pines.  Highlights include great views of Mt. Baldy, Mt. Baden-Powell and the high desert.

From the parking area, head northwest on the Pacific Crest Trail.  Almost immediately, take a right on the nature trail and begin the loop.  You pass through a forest of pines and black oaks, getting glimpses of the desert far below.  The trail ascends a staircase, makes a few switchbacks and rejoins the Pacific Crest Trail.  Here, you can enjoy a great view of Mt. Baden-Powell and the deep gorge of the San Gabriel River’s east fork from a bench.

When you’re done taking it all in, head left and take the Pacific Crest Trail back down to the parking lot.  Since the hike is so short, consider checking out some other trails in the area, such as Big Horn Mine, Mormon Rocks or Blue Ridge – to name a few.

Sycamore Canyon Park (Diamond Bar)

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Nature trail in Sycamore Canyon Park

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Sycamore Canyon Park (Diamond Bar)

  • Location: Diamond Bar, on Diamond Bar Blvd. across from Steep Canyon Road.  From the 57/60 freeways, take the Grand Ave. exit.  Go southeast on Grand for a mile.  Turn left on Diamond Bar Blvd., go 0.4 miles and make a U-turn at the intersection with Steep Canyon Road.  The parking lot will be immediately on your right.  From Riverside, take the 60 freeway to Diamond Bar Blvd.  Go south for 1.4 miles and the entrance will be on your right.
  • Agency: River & Mountains Conservancy
  • Distance: 0.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 150 feet
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season:  Year-round
  • USGS topo map: “San Dimas”
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 2
Sycamore Canyon Park in Diamond Bar is a pleasant neighborhood park that happens to have a short but sweet hiking trail.  The trail can be accessed from the lower end of the park as well as from the upper end, as described here.

From the parking lot, take the trail to a steep staircase heading down to the right.  At the bottom, continue along the path as it descends into the canyon.  The trail continues under oaks and sycamores, alongside a seasonal stream.  A nice viewing area with benches off to the right makes for a good place to stop and enjoy the scene.  The trail continues before emerging in the lower parking lot, near the main area of the park.

Of course, it’s hard not to wish that the trail was longer, but it just goes to show that when it comes to nature and outdoor spaces, a little bit is better than none.  Like other neighborhood trails, Sycamore Canyon is a great place to take young kids, and it makes for a nice, convenient walk after or before work, or even during a lunch break.  It can also easily be combined with the Steep Canyon Loop, which is just around the corner.

Quail Hill Loop

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Hills, sky and clouds on the Quail Hill Loop

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Quail Hill Loop

  • Location: 34 Shady Canyon Drive, Irvine.  From the 405 freeway, take the Sand Canyon/Shady Canyon exit and drive south for 0.6 miles on Shady Canyon.  Go through the rotary and look for the trail head parking lot on the right.
  • Agency: Irvine Ranch Conservancy
  • Distance: 1.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season:  Year-round
  • USGS topo map: Tustin
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 2

Located right off the 405 freeway, the Quail Hill Loop is a convenient workout in the hills of Irvine.  Spring rains make the hills bright green, but the hike is certainly short enough to be considered year-round.   Keep in mind, however, that there is no shade on the trail.

From the parking lot, follow the signs for the loop trail.   Head right, toward the freeway, which unfortunately will be seen and heard throughout the trip.  You pass by some wetlands (this portion of the trail tends to be a little muddy following rainy periods, so be careful).

After about half a mile, the trail starts heading up hill, and the views of south Orange County, including the Santa Anas, open up.  On the way back, you can take a short detour to a viewing area.  Following this, a somewhat steep descent will take you back to the parking lot.

As suburban hiking trails go, the Quail Hill Loop is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.  It’s a perfect route for people who want to get into hiking but aren’t sure where to start, and veteran hikers should be aware of the trailhead across the street, which leads to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

Wilderness Glen (Mission Viejo Open Space)

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Wilderness Glen trail in Mission Viejo

Mallard in the creek, Wilderness Glen

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Wilderness Glen (Mission Viejo Open Space)

  • Location: Corner of Noveno and Destello, Mission Viejo.  From I-5, head northeast on El Toro Road for 2.3 miles and turn right on Trabuco.  Go 1.1 miles and turn left on Los Alisos.  Go 0.6 miles and turn left on Via Noveno, and park on the corner of Via Noveno and Destello.
  • Agency: City of Mission Viejo
  • Distance: 1.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 150 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: El Toro
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 2

This is an enjoyable neighborhood trail that follows alongside a creek.  It’s a good walk to know about, especially for those who want a quick escape into nature and don’t have the time to drive all the way up into the mountains.

The entire trail runs about two miles, so the route described here can easily be extended.  With the exception of a small paved stretch, this section of the trial is entirely on dirt (much of the route is on a bike path).

From the corner of Destello and Noveno, head downhill on a dirt fire road and enter the quiet, wooded canyon.  Although you can see houses on the left and hear traffic from Los Alisos Blvd. on the right, the canyon still manages to have a nice, secluded feel.  At about half a mile in, the trail surface becomes paved, and shortly after, you cross Vista Del Lago.  Pick up the trail on the other side of the street (or if you like, you can take a detour to the right and get a closer look at the creek).

The trail continues, soon making a short and steep climb, during which nice views of the Santa Ana Mountains open up.  After reaching a high point, it starts to descend, finally reaching Del Lago School, the turnaround.  If you enjoyed the hike, you can continue south past Via Noveno on the bike path for another mile.

Hollywood Reservoir

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Hollywood Reservoir and Mt. Lee from the Mulholland Dam

Doves near Hollywood Reservoir

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Hollywood Reservoir

  • Location: Hollywood Hills, corner of Lake Hollywood Drive and Montlake Drive.   Take highway 101 to the Barham Blvd. exit.  Turn right on Barham, drive 0.3 miles and turn right on Lake Hollywood Drive.  Take a quick left on Primera and a quick right onto La Suvida.  Drive a total of 0.6 miles (La Suvida becomes Lake Hollywood Drive) and park on the corner of Lake Hollywood Drive and Montlake.
  • Agency: City of Los Angeles
  • Distance: 4.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: Level
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Burbank; Hollywood
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 3

For being as closely located as it is to Hollywood, this walk is pleasantly quiet.  The reservoir is mostly fenced in, unfortunately, but the views from the Mulholland Dam are excellent, and you can also get some pretty good looks at the Hollywood sign.  Recent landslides have blocked off the western side of the reservoir, but you can still walk around 2/3 of it and back for a nearly 5-mile trip.

From the end of Lake Hollywood Drive, head left (east) along Montlake, following the reservoir’s perimeter for 0.7 miles.  Cars are allowed here, but traffic is sparse, so as long as you stick to the path following the road you’ll be fine.  At the junction of Tahoe Drive, you pass through a chain fence and head onto the walkway that circles the reservoir.  Soon, you get your first looks at the Mulholland Dam, and after a mile and a half, you arrive there.  If you’ve been disappointed at having your view of the reservoir blocked by the fence, you will get what you want here as you walk out into the dam.  From this vantage point, you get a great look at the Hollywood Hills (including the sign) towering over the reservoir, and you can see downtown L.A. to the other side.

Compared to nearby Griffith Park or Temescal Canyon, the Hollywood Reservoir is a surprisingly quiet and peaceful place to get outdoors.   You will likely see a few other people here on the weekends, but the reservoir is still a relatively unknown tourist attraction.  Even folks visiting from out of town will find this place to be  nice spot to escape from the traffic of Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard.

Hilltop from Ernie Howlett Park

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View from the hilltop near Howlett Park

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Hilltop from Ernie Howlett Park

  • Location: Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, 25851 Hawthorne Blvd.   From I-110, take Pacific Coast Highway west for 3 miles and turn left on Crenshaw Blvd.  Go 0.5 miles and turn right on Rolling Hills Road.  Go 0.7 miles and turn left on Hawthorne, and the park is on your right.  From I-405, take Hawthorne Blvd. south for 6.6 miles.
  • Agency: City of Rolling Hills Estates
  • Distance: 1 mile
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Torrance
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 3

Popular Ernie Howlett Park not only features baseball and tennis facilities, but it serves as a trail head for a number of bridle paths.  The short trip to a knoll known as the hill top provides some of the most panoramic views on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

From the parking lot, take the short Batting Cages Trail and take a right on the Howlett Trail.  Head downhill and at the bottom, head right (left leads to private property).  You make a brief climb and then come to a four-way split.  Head left through a chain link fence into a meadow, and then head right along a path that parallels the fence.  This trail makes a curving ascent and arrives at the hilltop, where you can see the ocean, the Santa Monica and San Gabriel mountains, and downtown L.A.

Beyond this point, the trail meets up with Via Pinzon, a residential street that serves as an alternate trailhead.  You can also access the Torrance Utility Fire Road, or extend your hike on the other end of the Howlett Trail, which crosses under Hawthorne Blvd. and meets up with the longer Palos Verdes Loop.  Whichever trails you decide to visit, the views from the hilltop are some of the best in the area.

Pelanconi Park (Anaheim)

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Greenery along the creek in Pelanconi Park

Dusk in Pelanconi Park

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Pelanconi Park in Anaheim

  • Location: Anaheim Hills.  From the 91 freeway, take the Imperial Highway exit and head south (right if you’re coming from the west, left if from the east).  Go 0.3 miles and turn right on Santiago Canyon Road.  Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Avenida Margarita.  The park is on the left at 222 S. Avenida Margarita.
  • Agency: City of  Anaheim
  • Distance: 0.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 150 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Best season: Year-round
  • USGS topo map: Orange
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 1

Located just behind a major shopping center and in between two housing tracts, Pelanconi Park offers a nice, convenient little getaway into nature.  The small park doesn’t have a whole lot of variety of trails, but it’s a nice place to get some fresh air and stretch your legs, and it certainly beats sitting in traffic on the nearby 91 freeway.

From the parking lot, head south into the park on a fire road.  Stay straight at the first junction and follow the trail alongside a creek.   You climb gradually, and after a few minutes, you can take a right and head into a picnic area.  Soon after, the fire road ends at Westridge Circle, a residential street.

The hike can be extended into a loop by walking through the picnic area and picking up a trail that leaves from the opposite end of the clearing.  However, this route is somewhat less scenic, and there’s an unfortunate amount of litter and graffiti, so most hikers will probably prefer to just retrace their steps.

Tenaja Falls

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Tenaja Falls

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Tenaja Falls

  • Location:  Southeastern Santa Ana Mountains near Murrieta and Lake Elsinore.  From I-15, take the Clinton Keith Exit and head southwest for a total of 7.5 miles, past the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve.  (It becomes Tenaja Road along the way).  Take a hard right to stay on Tenaja Road (staying straight will take you to Via Volcano).   Go 3.5 miles and take a right on Cleveland Forest Road.  This is a narrow, winding road that isn’t regularly maintained, so be careful.  After 5.2 miles, look for the Tenaja Falls trail head on your left (not to be confused with the Tenaja Trail Head, which comes earlier).  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/Trabuco Ranger District
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 300 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: December – June
  • USGS topo map: Sitton Peak
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Orange Countywidth=
  • More information: here; trip report here
  • Rating: 7

Located on the southeast flank of the Santa Ana Mountains, Tenaja Falls is an unusual-looking waterfall with five separate tiers.  Although it can be hard to see from the trail, and only flows strongly after recent rains, the waterfall’s total height of 150 feet makes it one of So-Cal’s tallest.  The area around the waterfall is beautiful, and if the drive seems a little long for such a short hike, you can easily add to your trip.

From the parking lot, head downhill, staying straight at the first junction (the trail to the left leads to Fisherman’s Camp, a nice two-mile trip that’s also worth taking if you have the time.)  Soon, you cross a stream.  This is the only tricky part of the trip.  Make sure you cross the stream as soon as possible; the route might not necessarily be clear, but the water is usually fairly shallow and there are stepping stones to use.  Remaining on the east (near) side of the creek becomes problematic.

On the opposite bank, you should be able to find the trail without much difficulty. You head uphill on a moderate grade, passing by groves of oaks, and soon come out into the open, where you get your first look at the waterfall.  Soon you arrive at the top, where you can carefully make your way out onto the rocks and get a view of the upper tier.  The vistas of the surrounding area are great from this point; except for the road, there are virtually no signs of civilization in your line of sight.

After checking out the waterfall, if you want to get more hiking in, you can continue along the Tenaja Falls Trail, which will meet the Morgan Trail in about 5 miles near the Candy Store, or you can retrace your steps back to the creek and take the trail to Fisherman’s Camp.  The nearby Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is always a fun place to visit, especially after spring rains have filled the Vernal Pools.

Toyon Park to Blue Sky Lane in Anaheim Hills

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Bridle trail north of Toyon Park


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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Toyon Park to Blue Sky Lane in Anaheim Hills

  • Location: Toyon Park, Anaheim Hills.  From the 91 freeway, take the Weir Canyon/Yorba Linda Blvd. exit and head south on Weir Canyon Road for 1.2 miles.  The park is your right, at the corner of Running Springs and Weir Canyon.
  • Agency: City of Anaheim
  • Distance:  1.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time:  1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: “Orange”
  • More information:  Toyon Park info here.
  • Rating: 3

In my pre-hiking days, Toyon Park was one of my favorite places to get some fresh air when I was  in the Anaheim Hills area.  Even as I enjoyed the panoramic views of the valley below and the hills above, I never noticed the bridle trail leading out of the backside of the park.

Said bridle trail switchbacks down hill before coming to a four-way split near Oak Canyon Drive.  Take a hard left and enter a short tunnel that goes under the street, soon emerging at the dead end of Quiet Canyon.  You continue into a wooded area, following the bridle trail uphill.  On your left are the houses of Country Glen Way; on your right is a canyon thick with oaks, with a seasonal stream running through it.

After about half a mile, the trail makes a few more switchbacks and ascends to meet Blue Sky Lane, the turnaround point for this hike.  However, you can easily expand the trip by taking a right on Blue Sky, following it to a gated community and picking up another bridle trail on the left side of the road.  You can also follow the trail back past Toyon Park and descend into another wooded canyon, eventually ending up at Serrano Drive.

Canada Trails Loop (Miraleste Canyon)

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Footbridge in Miraleste Canyon

View from Palos Verdes Drive East

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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Canada Trails Loop (Miraleste Canyon)

  • Location: Miraleste neighborhood of Rancho Palos Verdes.  From the south end of I-110 in San Pedro, take a left on Gaffey St. and go 0.7 miles. Turn right on 9th St. and follow it for a total of 2.7 miles (it becomes Miraleste Drive along the way).  Park on the right side of Miraleste, just before the bus station and the intersection with Palos Verdes Drive East.
  • Agency: City of Rancho Palos Verdes
  • Distance: 1.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “San Pedro Hill”
  • More information: video here
  • Rating: 4

This trail on the east side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula offers an enjoyable little stroll similar to the two other trails nearby on Palos Verdes Drive East: the Frascati and Siena Trails.  This one is quiet, clean, and features a nice stretch alongside a seasonal brook.

From the bus stop on Miraleste Drive, head away from the road and pick up the Canada (also known as Miraleste Canyon) trail heading downhill.  You descend into a quiet, shady canyon, dry at first, but soon a seasonal stream starts flowing.

At half a mile, head downhill to the left as another trail forks off to the right, and you soon come to red footbridge crossing the canyon.  On the other side, head left and begin your ascent.  After some moderate climbing, you make a couple of switchbacks, walk between two houses and arrive at Via Canada.  Take a left, and then a quick left on Palos Verdes Drive East, and walk a few minutes back to the bus stop and Miraleste Drive.  There’s a sidewalk and you’re facing traffic, so if you’re careful you shouldn’t have any problems.

If you are interested, this coming Saturday (3/5/11), the Angeles chapter of the Sierra Club will be doing a group hike here. Click this link for more information.

Nature Loop in the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve

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Dusk in the Back Bay of Newport Beach

On the boardwalk, 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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Nature Loop in the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve

  • Location: Newport Beach.  From route 73, take the Jamboree Rd. exit south for 2.3 miles and turn right on San Joaquin Hills Road.  Turn right onto Back Bay Drive (one-way heading northbound), and in about half a mile, park on the left in a parking lot.  From Pacific Coast Highway, go north on MacArthur for 0.9 miles and turn left on San Joaquin Hills Road, and go 1.4 miles.  Take a right on Back Bay Drive.
  • Agency: Upper Newport Bay Ecological Resreve
  • Distance: 0.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: Level
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “Newport Beach”
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 2

Like the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve farther up P.C.H., Newport Bay’s park gives O.C. residents a chance to see marshlands and a huge variety of water fowl up close.  There are a bunch of trails to explore in the reserve, and the short but sweet Nature Trail is worth a visit if you’re in the area.

From the parking lot, head north on Back Bay Drive, enjoying nice views of the wetlands on the left.  You cross a bridge and soon will see the sign for the Nature Trail.  The trail heads into a quiet, wooded area, crosses a boardwalk, and soon comes out on a dirt fire road.  Take a right, and head back to the parking lot.  You can extend your trip by walking south on Back Bay Drive, or taking a left on the fire road and exploring Big Canyon.

By the way, when hiking this park, in addition to the ducks, egrets and hawks you’re likely to see, keep an eye out for “Babe”, a bobcat who makes her home in the area.

McBride Trail

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Flowers and ocean view from the McBride 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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

McBride Trail

  • Location: End of Ocean Terrace Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes.  From the I-110 freeway, take the Pacific Coast Highway exit and head west for 3 miles.  Take a left on Crenshaw Blvd. and go 3.4 miles to Crest Road.  Turn right and go 0.7 miles to Highridge.  Take a left, and then a quick right on Ocean Terrace.  Drive to the end of the street and pick up the trail, heading off behind the last house (#6270).
  • Agency: Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy/Upper Filiorum Reserve
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season:  All year
  • More information: here; Upper Filiorum Reserve trail map here
  • Rating: 4

This enjoyable hike takes in some great ocean views, also providing an aerial perspective of the cliffs and hills of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  The trail runs along the back side of some houses, so it’s not the place to go for a wilderness experience, but it’s nice and quiet, receives relatively little foot traffic, and makes for a convenient, quick escape into nature.

From the trailhead at the end of Ocean Terrace Drive, follow the trail into the Three Sisters Reserve, and stay left at the first junction.  The McBride Trail enters the Upper Filiorum Nature Reserve, one of the Palos Verdes Land Conservancy’s newest acquisitions.  After a steep stretch, the trail levels out and continues for a mile before reaching Crest Road.  Here, you can either retrace your steps or make the hike into a loop by taking a left on Crest, a left on Highridge and a right on Ocean Terrace.

Siena Loop Trail

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On the Siena Loop 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. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Siena Loop Trail

  • Location: Rancho Palos Verdes, in the Miraleste neighborhood.  From the end of the Vincent Thomas Bridge, and stay straight to go onto Summerland Avenue.  Take Summerland for a mile and turn left on Western.  Go 0.3 miles and turn right on first.  Go 0.6 miles and turn right on Miraleste Drive.  Go 0.8 miles and turn left on Palos Verdes Drive East.  Take the second left (one past Miraleste Plaza) and park by the sign for the Siena Loop trail.  From the end of I-110, take a left on Gaffey St.  Go 0.7 miles and takea  right on 9th St.  Go a total of 2.7 miles (9th becomes Miraleste Drive) and take a left on Palos Verdes Drive East, and take the second left into the parking area.
  • Agency:  City of Rancho Palos Verdes
  • Distance: 0.7 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Best season: Year-round
  • USGS topo maps: “San Pedro Hills”
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 2

This short, enjoyable loop visits one of the canyons on the east side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  Unfortunately, it never really escapes the noise of the traffic on Palos Verdes Drive East, and there’s some trash and graffiti, but it still makes a nice little trip into nature if you’re pressed for time.

From the parking area, descend past the sign for the Siena Loop.  At the junction, make a hard right and continue to climb down into the canyon.  After a short distance, it reaches a paved road (Via Paloma).  Head straight and take a quick left on Via Colinita.  The loop trail continues on your left (if you want to extend your hike, you can take a right on the Colinita Trail, which heads through a small canyon before climbing to Palos Verdes Drive East.)

The last leg of the Siena Loop is the most enjoyable, as you climb back out of the canyon through the green hills.  The ascent is steep in places, but short enough that almost anyone should be able to do it without trouble.  After a few minutes you arrive back at the parking area.