Category Archives: General information: Dogs allowed

Trails where dogs are allowed. Some restrictions, such as leashes, may apply. Double check with the agency.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Potrero John Trail

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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.

Vista Del Norte Trail

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View from the Vista Del Norte Trail

Ascending the Vista Del Norte Trail

Vista Del Norte Trail

  • Location: Rolling Hills Estates, on the corner of Indian Peak Road and Norris Center Drive. From I-405, take the Hawthorne Blvd. exit and drive south for 8.5 miles.  Turn left on Indian Peak Road, go 0.4 miles and park in the lot at the Norris Center, on the right.  From I-110, take the Pacific Coast Highway exit and head north (west) for 3 miles.  Turn left on Crenshaw Blvd., go 3 miles and turn right on Indian Peak.  The parking lot at Norris Center will be on your left, in 0.4 miles.
  • Agency: Palos Verdes Land Conservancy (Vista Del Norte Reserve)
  • Distance: 0.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 30 minutes
  • Best season: Year-round (any day with clear skies)
  • USGS topo map: San Pedro
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 3

If you like instant gratification, check out the Vista Del Norte, where a short climb gives you some great views of the L.A. Basin.  The Vista Del Norte Reserve is one of the many small parcels of land on the Palos Verdes Peninsula operated by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.

From the parking area by the Norris Center, head east along the sidewalk on Indian Peak Road.   Almost immediately, turn right and follow the single-track trail leading uphill.  Take a right on the Vista Del Norte Trail, which switchbacks up the side of the hill.  (The Indian Peak Loop Trail, which heads straight, is poorly maintained and hard to follow.)

As you climb, the views get wider and wider.  After a quarter mile, you arrive at a bench, just below the communication towers, where you can sit and enjoy the view.  If you prefer you can continue past the bench to a summit where clear-day vistas include the Santa Monica Mountains, the ocean, the San Gabriels, San Gorgonio and more.

Obviously, this trail is a little bit short to be a major hiking destination, but if you do the route a couple of times, making it nature’s version of a stair climb, it can be a good workout; it’s also near several other trails on the peninsula that are worth visiting.  While the trail never escapes the sights and sounds of civilization nearby, it just goes to show that even in places that seem unlikely, one can still get out into nature.

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.

Shortcut Saddle to West Fork Trail Camp

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San Gabriel Peak from Shortcut Canyon

In Shortcut Canyon

Shortcut Saddle to West Fork Trail Camp

    • Location: Angeles Crest Highway, between Mt. Wilson and Chilao Flats.  From I-210, head northeast for 19 miles.  Just past the intersection with Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road, park in a turnout on the right side of the road, at Shortcut Saddle.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
    • Agency: Angeles National Forest/Los Angeles River Ranger District
    • Distance: 7 miles
    • Elevation gain: 1,800 feet
    • Suggested time: 4 hours
    • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Terrain, elevation gain, distance, navigation)
    • Best season:  Year-round (depending on conditions)
    • USGS topo maps: Mt. Wilson, Chilao
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sun hat
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 8

Shortcut Canyon today is best known as a segment of the Silver Moccasin trail, and also as an unofficial dividing point between the front country and high country of the San Gabriel Mountains. However, before the Angeles Crest Highway was completed, it was one of the main routes from the San Gabriel Valley into the high country.

The 7-mile round trip (according to my GPS unit; “Trails of the Angeles” lists it as a 6 mile round trip and the ANF signage indicates 7.4) is similar to the nearby Devil’s Canyon hike in the San Gabriel Wilderness. This one doesn’t quite have as varied scenery, or the panoramic views of the Devil’s Canyon, but it’s still well worth a visit. The destination is the West Fork Trail Camp, although one can easily add on to the trip on any of the four trails that meet there.  Weather can play a big role in planning this hike: while it can certainly be doable year-round, snow and high water levels can present challenges during the winter, and the exposed upper reaches of the canyon can be hot during the summer.  Hiking poles are advisable, both for the steep upper portion of the hike and the nearly two miles each way in the canyon, with many stream crossings.

From the highway, look for a single-track trail that zigzags steeply down the hill to a fire road. Turn right, and in 0.1 miles, continue on the single-track, on the left. For the next mile and a half, you make your descent on the trail, which closely hugs the walls of the canyon. You have great views of San Gabriel, Mt. Wilson, Markham and Mt. Disappointment as you go. The trail is in good condition, although there are a few fallen trees that present more of a nuisance than an obstacle, and there are some spots where the drop-offs are pretty sharp. You pass by a small seasonal waterfall, although the trail doesn’t go close enough to provide a good look.

At about 1.8 miles (approximately half way), the trail curves sharply and makes a steep descent to the bottom of the canyon.  Here, the going can be a little tricky.  There are several stream crossings, which as of this writing are all easy, but can easily become difficult if the water level is high.  Watch out for poison oak, too.

Navigation can be a little tough here, although there are quite a few trail ducks and the crossing points should be pretty obvious.  In general, the trail follows closely along the banks of the creek.  Half a mile into the canyon, a tributary comes in from the right.  You continue another mile, in and out of the creek, around a few fallen trees, and soon you arrive at the merge with the West Fork of the San Gabriel River.  Depending on how high the water level is, the best place to cross may vary.  On the opposite side, you will find the West Fork Trail Camp, with picnic tables, an outhouse and some fire pits.

The shade and the sound of the two streams coming together makes this a nice place to relax before continuing the next leg of the hike – be it continuing west to the Valley Forge camp, east to the DeVore Camp or back to the Angeles Crest Highway.

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.

Harford Springs Reserve

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Heading downhill and west, closing the loop

Harford Springs Reserve

Harford Springs Reserve

    • Location: Riverside County, near Lake Mathews, on Gavilan Road.  From the 91 Freeway in Riverside, take the La Sierra exit.  Go southeast for 3.2 miles and turn left on El Sobrante.  Go 5.8 miles and turn left on Cajalco Road.  Go 0.3 miles and turn right on Gavilan.  Go 2 miles and look for a small dirt parking lot on the left, just before Idaleona Road.  From I-215, take the Ramona Expressway exit.  Head west for 6.7 miles (Ramona becomes Cajalco Expressway and then Cajalco Road).  Turn left on Gavilan.
    • Agency: Riverside County Parks
    • Distance: 2.8 miles
    • Elevation gain: 300 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time:  1.5 hours
    • Best season: All year, 8am to sunset (hot during the summer)
    • USGS topo map: Steele Peak
    • Recommended gear: Personal GPS navigator; sun hat
    • More information: Yelp review here; trail map here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 5

South of Riverside and north of Perris and Lake Elsinore, near Lake Mathews, hikers can explore the little-known Harford Springs Reserve. The sizable (325 acres) park has a surprisingly remote feel, despite being just a short drive from Corona and Riverside.

There is no formal trail system here, although several trails have been “adopted” by local entities, and there are signs designating this that provide help with navigation. The basic layout of the reserve is Gavilan Road on the west side, Idaleona Road on the south side and Piedras Road (dirt, and private) on the east side. An un-named fire road cuts across the park diagonally, southwest to northeast. The route described here doesn’t have to be followed exactly. If you keep track of where you are going, and ideally use some kind of GPS navigation, you shouldn’t have too many problems. When in doubt, use the sound of traffic on Gavilan to help you out.

From the small parking area on Gavilan, head east on the main trail, past a stable. Soon, you come to a split. Head right, into a marshy area. (This trail is signed as being “adopted” by Henderson Stables.) You cross a small footbridge and stay right again at another junction, heading uphill.

You pass by lots of rock piles that can be fun to explore, and countless juniper trees. On your right, if the weather is clear, you can get nice views of the Santa Anas. Soon you join a trail signed “RAGLM”, which gives way to “Riverside Junior Equestrians.” Take a sharp left, cross another trail and soon you arrive at the fire road. Head left (right brings you south to Idaleona) and soon, you’ll take a right on a single-track signed “Rising Star Pony Club.” This leads you through a pleasantly wooded area that may remind some of the nearby Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. Your next trail is “Allstar Ranch Arabian Horses”, which brings you to Piedras Road.

Just before you get to the road, head left on another parallel trail, which ends up curving back toward the west. You make a short climb and descent, staying right as a vague trail branches off to the left. Heading north, you make another climb and then meet up with the fire road. Here, you’ll turn right and almost immediately take a left on a well-defined single track. Stay left at the next two junctions, and right at the two after that. On the way, you’ll pass by a cholla cactus bush, some interesting rock formations, and what appear to be some stone ruins.

Eventually, you’ll make your way back into the marshy area of the western end of the park, and you meet up with the original trail. Head right and return to the parking lot.

Remember, it doesn’t have to be followed exactly. If you’re concerned about navigation, stick to the fire roads, leave trail-ducks, do an out-and-back route instead of the loop, or use GPS. Despite the minimal signage (and some litter and broken glass), Harford Springs is a unique and enjoyable place to hike in an area not known for much outdoor activity. It’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

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.

Angel Vista via Los Robles Trail (Thousand Oaks)

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View from Angel Vista (click picture to purchase from the N.H.L.A. gallery)

Angel Vista via Los Robles Trail (Thousand Oaks)

      • Location: Thousand Oaks.  From Highway 101, take the Moorpark St. exit and head south for 0.5 miles.  Park in the lot on the corner of Moorpark and Greenmeadow, or take a right on Greenmeadow and park at an alternate trailhead a quarter mile down the road on the left.
      • Agency: Conejo Open Space Foundation
      • Distance: 7.4 miles
      • Elevation gain: 950 feet
      • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Distance)
      • Suggested time: 3.5 hours
      • Best season:  October – May
      • USGS topo map: Thousand Oaks
      • Recommended gear: sun hat; sunblock
      • More information: COSF home page here; trail map here (from alternate starting point)
      • Rating: 6

This is one of the more challenging and scenic routes of the Los Robles Trail System, one of the projects of the Conejo Open Space Foundation. The destination is Angel Vista, a view point where hikers are rewarded for their efforts with a 360-degree panorama.

From the trailhead at the corner of Moorpark and Greenmeadow, head west on the fire road. Several other trails branch off, but your route stays straight. In half a mile, bear left as the Los Robles Trail becomes a single-track.

You ascend a few switchbacks, taking in nice views of Thousand Oaks on the way up. The trail levels out, and then crosses a dirt road three miles from the start. There’s not a whole lot of variety on this stretch, but the views are enjoyable and the grade is never too steep. (There’s very little shade, however.)

After crossing the dirt road, you make another ascent. At a four-way junction, stay straight, on a small spur signed for Angel Vista. The actual vista point is a small, fenced-in area with a picnic table. Clear day views include Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island, the western Santa Monicas, the Los Padres National Forest, and a little bit of the San Gabriels.

Angel Vista can also be reached from Potrero Road, which is a 5-mile round trip. For more information on that route, click here.

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.


East Side Loop (Griffith Park)

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Descending from Mt. Hollywood on the East Side Loop

On the Mineral Wells Trail

East Side Loop (Griffith Park)

  • Location: Griffith Park near Los Angeles.  From the south, take I-5 to the Los Feliz exit, turn left and cross the freeway and turn right on Crystal Springs Drive.  Go 1.3 miles and turn right onto Griffith Park Drive.  Park in the lot near the merry go round.  From the north, take the Los Feliz exit and turn right, then immediately right onto Crystal Springs Drive.
  • Agency:  Griffith Park
  • Distance: 6.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,300 feet
  • Suggested time: 3.5 hours
  • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Elevation gain, steepness)
  • Best season: October – May
  • USGS topo map:  Burbank
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sun hat
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 7

L.A. hikers who take Griffith Park for granted might want to try this route out for size. The six-mile loop described here is challenging, very scenic and surprisingly rugged.

From the parking area, head uphill to the junction with the East Trail, as if you were headed to Bee Rock. At the T-junction, turn right and begin a vigorous climb, almost immediately taking in nice views of the San Gabirel Mountains and Burbank. Soon the trail levels out and you can see Bee Rock towering above. By the time you are done climbing, you will be about as far above Bee Rock as you now are below it.

At 1.2 miles, the trail to Bee Rock splits off. Stay straight on a trail that curves toward the right, and then almost immediately turn left onto the Bill Eckert Trail. You make a pleasant climb through a canyon, and soon arrive at another junction. Head right, and soon, where the road makes a sharp turn to the left, look for a trail heading uphill over rocky terrain (1.7 miles from the start.) The first few yards are a little tricky, but soon the terrain becomes easier to navigate, and you make a quick climb to a junction with another fire road. Head left and continue climbing to the Vista Del Valle, the paved (but closed to traffic) road that runs through the park.

Head right and soon look for a trail marked with a “no bikes” sign. This single-track climbs steeply (200 feet in a quarter mile) before reaching another fire road. Here, you head left and climb a little more before reaching the top of the ridge.

Now, your payback: the next stretch has great views on both sides. You can get a rare aerial perspective on Bee Rock to the east (left), a well as commanding views of the San Gabriels. On the right, look for the Hollywood Sign on Mt. Lee, and on clear days, you can see the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains.

In a few minutes, you meet up with a five-way intersection. Head straight to access a spur that brings you to the top of Mt. Hollywood, where you get a 360 degree view of the area.

Heading back down to the junction, this time you take a hard right and head downhill. Stay straight at the next split, and you begin to descend steeply on a rough path sometimes known as the Hogsback Trail (the hiking poles will be helpful here.) As before, you have dramatic views on both sides.

After crossing a footbridge, you meet up with Vista Del Valle again. Head right and almost immediately, look for the Mineral Wells Trail heading off to the left. After the rugged descent, the shaded Mineral Wells Trail, which is moderately graded and lightly traveled, will seem like a welcome relief. Recent rains have made the grass very green as well.

In less than half a mile, you arrive at another junction. The straight route brings you to Beacon Hill, but to complete the loop, make a hard right and descend another mile on the fire road. Shortly before you reach the parking lot, you can make one last variation on the route by heading right on a single-track trail, down a staircase and past an amphitheater, and back to the starting point.

The route, of course, doesn’t have to be followed exactly. Griffith Park’s signage is slim to none, but most of the trails are easy to find and orientation is not too tough. It may seem hard to believe, but this route really only covers a small fraction of the 4,400-plus acres here. Even for veteran hikers, Griffith Park has much to offer.

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.

Chiquito Trail

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View from the Chiquito Trail

Oaks on the Chiquito Trail

Chiquito Trail
    • Location: Southwest Riverside County off of highway 74.  From Lake Elsinore, take highway 74 west for 11 miles.  The San Juan Loop trail parking lot is on the right, across the street from the Ortega Oaks (Candy) Store.  From Orange County, take highway 74 east for 21 miles.  The parking lot is on the left.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 day/$30 year) required for parking.  Click here to purchase.
    • Agency: Cleveland National Forest/Trabuco Division
    • Distance: 9.6 miles (to waterfall site)
    • Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
    • Suggested time: 5 hours
    • Best season: December – May
    • USGS topo maps: Sitton Peak, Alberhill
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (distance, elevation gain)
    • Rating: 7

Named for former ranger Kenneth Munhall’s horse, the Chiquito Trail (not to be confused with nearby Chiquito Basin) runs for six and a half miles in the Santa Ana Mountains, connecting the Viejo Tie trail and the San Juan Loop Trail. The route described here shares the first mile with the San Juan Loop trail and then branches off, with the 15-foot seasonal Chiquito Falls as its destination. Recent rains unfortunately haven’t had an impact on the falls, which as of this writing is barely a trickle, but they have brought out some color in the oaks that line the canyons, making it seem almost rain-forest like. Some fall colors are still visible on the maples as well.

Begin by following the San Juan Loop Trail in either direction from the parking lot. In 1.1 miles, at the approximate half way point at the bottom of the canyon, look for the unsigned Chiquito Trail branching off.

Follow the Chiquito Trail across the canyon bottom and head northwest for a mile. You cross an unnamed tributary and then get to the bulk of the climbing. The trail ascends about 800 feet in just under two miles, most of it fairly easy but there are a few rocky stretches that may be a little tricky.

As you climb, you alternate between pleasant woodlands shaded by oaks, and open stretches where you get nice, panoramic views of San Juan Canyon and the highway far below. A little less than four miles from the start, the trail levels out. This can be a good turn-around point, with great view to enjoy. For those who want to continue to the waterfall or all the way up to the junction with the Viejo Tie Trail, the next mile is downhill. Soon you can see Lion Canyon below to the left, and if the falls are flowing, they will become visible. A short spur takes you to the top of the 15-foot rock wall where Chiquito Falls happens after heavy rains. Even if the falls are dry, this is a nice spot to sit and relax for a while before turning around. Past here, the Chiquito Trail continues for 2.4 miles before reaching the Viejo Tie Trail.

If a nearly ten mile round trip hike seems like a lot for a waterfall that may or may not be flowing, keep in mind that any amount of hiking on this trail is enjoyable, especially on cool, clear days. It’s a great training hike, too.

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.

Harriet Wieder Park

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Wetlands in Harriet Wieder Park

Harriet Wieder Park

  • Location: 19521 Seapoint Ave, Huntington Beach.  From the traffic circle in Long Beach, take Pacific Coast Highway south for 10.2 miles.  Turn left onto Seapoint Ave, drive a mile to Garfield Ave (past the park entrance) and make a U-turn.  Head back toward P.C.H. and enter the parking lot on your right.  From downtown Huntington Beach, take Pacific Coast Highway north for 2.3 miles and turn right on Seapoint.
  • Agency: Orange County Parks
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 100 feet
  • Suggested time: 45 minutes
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Best season:  All year
  • USGS topo map: “Seal Beach”
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 1

Harriet M. Wieder Park, in the northwestern corner of Huntington Beach, is Orange County’s newest regional park. As of now, the park is open to the public but not yet fully developed. There is no formal trail system here, but there are quite a few footpaths that are easy to follow. The route here samples some of the park’s scenery. The wetlands are similar to those at nearby Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. The coastal views aren’t as dramatic and the wildlife isn’t quite as varied as at Bolsa Chica, but Wieder Park is still worth a visit if you’re in the area. It is also dog friendly, which Bolsa Chica is not.

From the parking area, look for a dirt trail heading south toward Seapoint Avenue. Turn right on a wide trail that heads across an open space and then down to a creek. Crossing the creek is the only tricky part of this route, but it’s not too difficult; you work your way through some bushes and arrive at another trail which runs parallel to a fence.

Head up the hill, following two large metal pipes. (Don’t complain; this land could easily have become a golf course.) Soon you’ll see a small path leading downhill to the right. Walk over the pipes and follow this path, carefully crossing over the top of some small bluffs.

Soon you reach the back of the park, marked by another fence. Make a loop, heading back toward the houses. Soon you come to a split where the main road continues toward the park entrance, but you can make your trip a little more interesting by heading left on a single-track trail. This trail completes a loop, soon arriving at a junction where you head right and retrace your steps back to ward the dirt road. Rejoining the dirt road (with the pipelines), you continue retracing your steps. This time, however, before you get to the creek, head right and follow another trail heading back toward Seapoint. When you get there, head left and return to the entrance of the park.

If the route sounds a little convoluted, remember that there are many possible trips you can take at Wieder Park. It will be interesting to see the evolution of one of Orange County’s newest outdoor spaces.

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.

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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Bonita Canyon Falls

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

  • Location:  Eastern end of the San Gabriel Mountains north of Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga and south of Lytle Creek.  From I-15, take the Sierra Ave. exit.  Turn left at the bottom of the ramp and head northeast for 6 miles (Sierra becomes Lytle Creek Road.)  Six miles from the highway, look for a dirt turnout on the left side of the road (if you reach South Fork Road, you’re too far.)  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: San Bernardino National Forest/Lytle Creek Ranger District
  • Distance: 1.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 500 feet
  • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
  • Difficulty rating: PG
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Devore
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • More information: Great trip report with photos and accurate play by play here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 5

It seems too good to be true: a 150-foot waterfall just a mile off the road, only a few minutes from the north edge of the Inland Empire. Bonita Canyon Falls is in fact very real, but unfortunately its easy access has made it the victim of a lot of trash and graffiti. This is a hiking blog, not a morality blog, so I’ll spare the sermon and assume that my readership will take the high road and not further ruin what could have been, and may someday become, one of So Cal’s best waterfall hikes. In fact, with two hard to reach (and thus hard to measure) tiers above the main one, Bonita Canyon Falls is said by some to total over 500 feet, making it taller than Big Falls in the San Gorgonio Wilderness.

Besides the graffiti and trash, the other catch is that navigation and terrain can be tricky. Although it’s a viable year-round hike, check with the Lytle Creek station before doing it. If the water is high, the creek crossing at the beginning can be treacherous; if the water is low, the waterfall’s flow might not be all that great. Snow can be an issue here too.

From the parking area, make your way down the embankment to the creek. As of this writing, the best place to cross is slightly upstream, where a huge fallen log spans the water. Some may be nervous crossing the creek here, but the log is close enough to the water so that one can use hiking poles for balance.

On the other side, head left and make your way along a semblance of a trail, leading through some trees to the wide-open flood plain. The exact route you take here will probably vary, but a good strategy is to work your way across to the south wall, where you can pretty easily follow a course along the rocks. If you are wearing boots or shoes with good ankle support, you’ll be fine.

At about 0.8 miles from the start, look for a a dirt path heading uphill to the left. After passing a painted over sign, the trail winds its way up into the canyon, going over and under trees. When in doubt, try to stay as close to the water as possible. There are a few spots that are tricky, but navigation and terrain aren’t too much of an issue here.

Before long, you’ll see bottom of the main waterfall, and then the whole thing comes into view. A short climb up some rocks will bring you to a spot where you can sit on a boulder and enjoy the waterfall.

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.

Sandberg/Golden Eagle Loop

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Dusk on the Sandberg Trail

Meadow on the Sandberg Trail

Sandberg/Golden Eagle Loop

  • Location:  Northwestern Los Angeles County, between Castaic and Gorman.  From I-5, take the exit for Highway 138 and head east for 4.3 miles.  Turn right on the Old Ridge Route and go a total of 2.7 miles to the town site of Sandberg.  Park on the side of the road near the historic plaque.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Angeles National Forest/San Clara & Mojave Rivers Ranger District
  • Distance: 4.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,200 feet
  • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
  • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Steepness, elevation gain)
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: Liebre Mountain
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • More information: here (mountain biking site); Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 8
Panoramic high desert views, a wide variety of foliage and a little bit of California history are some of what await hikers willing to make the long trek to the northwest corner of the Angeles National Forest for this trip.The town of Sandberg was a once a resort. Its alpine setting (4,200 feet above sea level) made it a popular winter destination, and it was a stop on the Old Ridge Route, one of the first roads to connect L.A. and the Central Valley. It was supposed to be quite a treacherous drive; the speed limit was 15 miles per hour.

Across the street from the Sandberg plaque, begin hiking on what is often called the Golden Eagle Trail, which heads uphill into a woodland of manzanitas, pines and oaks. You get nice views of the high desert as well. Stay right at your first junction, and continue past a spur that leads to the road. Now begins what is called the Sandberg Trail on some maps.

Soon, a quarter mile from the start, you come to a split. The Sandberg Trail, which is the return route for this loop, continues to the right. (An alternate route is to take the Sandberg Trail both up and down, resulting in a total distance of 5.4 miles.)

Those who want a challenge, however, can stay left and begin a steep ascent on a trail that is loose in some places (the poles will come in handy here). The good news is that this short stretch – where you gain 700 feet in 0.6 miles – is shaded, and you have great views of the desert and the Tehachapi Mountains as you make your way up.

At 0.9 miles from the start, you meet up again with the Sandberg Trail. The good news is that most of the effort is behind you at this point. Head left and soon you arrive at a flat meadow, where you get nice views in both directions. The meadow itself, dotted with oaks and maples, may remind So Cal hikers of San Diego’s Palomar Mountains, or perhaps the higher country of the Santa Anas.

Soon after, you cross a fire break (stay straight) and two miles from the start, you cross forest road 7n23. A few yards beyond, the trail enters a field where you get some good views to the south. This is the turnaround point, although hikers can continue on the road in either direction.

On the way back, you can descend on the steep route, but for variety, try continuing on the Sandberg Trail, which winds around the western flank of Liebre Mountain for 1.3 miles before returning to the split. Along the way, you get good views of Pyramid Lake and the hills of the Los Padres National Forest. Dusk is a particularly nice time to hike here.

At 4.3 miles, you rejoin the other route. Retrace your steps over the last 0.3 miles back to the Sandberg site.

Although it may seem remote, this hike is actually closer to downtown L.A. (and certainly the Valley) than than Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead. If you get off to an early enough start and beat the traffic, you can get here from the Valley in an hour. The trails of the northwestern Angeles National Forest aren’t as well known as their counterparts closer to L.A. but there’s a lot of great scenery up here that’s different from what one usually sees in So Cal.

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.

Portuguese Bend Reserve: Rim & Grapevine Loop

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Sunset from the Rim Trail

On the Rim Trail

Portuguese Bend Reserve: Rim & Grapevine Loop

  • Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula between Torrance and San Pedro.  From I-110, take the Anaheim St. exit, head west for about 3/4 of a mile to the five-way intersection and bare left on Palos Verdes Drive North.  Go 3.6 miles and take a left on Crenshaw, and follow it to its end (about 2 miles).  Park on the side of the road at Del Cerro Park.  Alternatively, access Crenshaw Blvd. either from I-405 or Pacific Coast Highway and head south to Del Cerro.
  • Agency: Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy/Portuguese Bend Reserve
  • Distance: 2.5 miles (semi-loop)
  • Elevation gain: 600 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo maps: Torrance, San Pedro
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 6
This short loop visits the lightly traveled northeastern corner of the Portuguese Bend Reserve.  Best known for its scenic overlook, the Reserve has a wide variety of trails, and this route combines several of them for a brief but aerobic hike.From the end of Crenshaw, follow the Burma Road Trail downhill, as if you were going to the overlook. When you get to the five-way split at the bottom of the hill by the water tank, take the far left fork, the Fire Station Trail, which heads back uphill.

After a quarter mile, you enter the boundary of the reserve and briefly cross into Rolling Hills Estates. Ignore the trail branching off to the left and stay right, on the Rim Trail. This trail lives up to its name, as it carefully navigates the rim of the big canyon below. Here, you get great views of the ocean.

Stay right again at another trail junction, and soon you arrive at the Grapevine Trail, your return route. Bear left and begin a steep descent, arriving at the Ishibashi Trail, 1.2 miles from the start.

Here you have several choices. You can head left on the Ishibashi Trail and explore the lower area of the reserve. You can head right and follow the Ishibashi Trail back to Burma Road. This route, however, head right on the Ishibashi Trail very briefly and then heads right on the Grapevine Trail. The Grapevine Trail heads uphill steeply, making a few switchbacks, rejoining the Rim Trail in half a mile and completing the loop. From here, you head left on the Rim Trail and retrace your steps to the Fire Station Trail, Burma Road and back to Del Cerro 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. 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.