Category Archives: General information: Hikes with free parking

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

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Entering La Jolla Valley, Point Mugu State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Rosa Loop (Wildwood Park)

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Sunset from the Santa Rosa Trail

Looking north on the Santa Rosa Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

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Moon over the Backbone Trail

Backbone Trail between Mulholland Highway and Etz Meloy Motorway

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Sycamore Park to Deer Canyon Preserve (Anaheim Hills)

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Sierra Peak from the Four Corners Trail, Anaheim Hills

Sycamore Park to Deer Canyon Preserve (Anaheim Hills)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

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Tachevah Falls

On the North Lykken Trail

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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Crossing the creek in Dark Canyon on the Backbone Trail

Sandstone geology on the west ridge of Saddle Peak

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potrero John Trail

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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.

San Clemente Beach & Pier

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

Geology on the beach at San Clemente

San Clemente Beach & Pier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Trailer Canyon Fire Road

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View from the Temescal Ridge Fire Road

On the Trailer Canyon Fire Road

Trailer Canyon Fire Road

      • Location: Pacific Palisades, south of Topanga State Park.  From the western end of I-10 in Santa Monica, continue on Pacific Coast Highway for 4.4 miles to Sunset Blvd.  Turn right on Sunset, go 0.5 miles and turn left on Palisades.  Go 2.4 miles and turn left on Vereda de la Montura.  Take an immediate right on Michael Lane and drive 0.5 miles to a junction with the fire road.  Park on the street and follow the fire road to the signed Trailer Canyon trailhead.
      • Agency: Topanga State Park
      • Distance: 4.6 miles
      • Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
      • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
      • Difficulty Rating: PG
      • Best season: Year round (Hot during the summer)
      • USGS topo map: “Topanga”
      • More information: here; Everytrail report here
      • Rating: 6

The Trailer Canyon Fire Road is one of several access points in the southern end of Topanga State Park. The hike to the junction with the Temescal Ridge Fire Road, described here, is a nice, moderately challenging trip where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean and canyons. Those with time and energy can extend the hike in either direction.

From Michael Lane, the trail ascends steadily, soon providing nice views of the canyon and its unique geology, including famous Eagle Rock. The grade is fairly consistent throughout, gaining a manageable 450 feet per mile. There is no shade, although with an early start, the hillside will probably block the sun.

After three quarters of a mile, you officially enter Topanga State Park. Shortly afterward, the trail curves south, providing views of the ocean, Catalina Island and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. After doubling back to the north, the road continues its climb. At the Temescal Fire Road, take a left and walk briefly to a flat spot where you can get a good aerial view of the canyon. On clear days, you can see Santa Barbara Island and even distant San Nicolas, appearing like a flat pancake on the ocean.

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.


Woods End Loop (Dilley Preserve/Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

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Fall colors on the Canyon Trail

Cholla cacti on the Mariposa Trail

Woods End Loop (Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

  • Location: Laguna Woods, at the intersection of El Toro Road and Aliso Creek Road.  From I-5, take El Toro Road southeast for 2.4 miles.  Just past the intersection with Aliso Creek, look for a small parking area on the right.  If no parking is available, turn left onto Aliso Creek and right onto Hummingbird Lane, a little ways up, and park there.
  • Agency: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 650 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: Laguna Beach
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sun hat
  • More information: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park here; Woods End Wilderness Preserve here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 5

This short but challenging loop uses a little-known access point to the Dilley Preserve, a section of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. The route is similar to the Barbara’s Lake Loop (the lake is visible from this trail), but is a little more rugged and arguably more scenic.

From El Toro, begin on the Woods End trail, a fire road that wastes no time ascending. After climbing almost 300 feet in 0.3 miles, the trail meet a T-junction. It doesn’t matter which direction you head, but for the purposes of this post, we’ll describe taking the loop counter-clockwise. Head right and make your way along the fire road, soon reaching a junction where the trail continues down toward the lake. Head left, climb past the water tank and cross a small clearing to reach the Mariposa Trail.

This trail follows a ridgeline, with nice views of Laguna Canyon on the right. (You can also see Barbara’s Lake). Stay straight as the Sunflower Trail branches off. Soon the trail makes a steep descent, reaching the Lake Trail at the bottom of the hill. Head left and through the main parking lot, turning left on the Canyon Trail.

After passing a few trees that are still showing nice fall colors (as of Thanksgiving weekend), you cross a stream on a small footbridge, and then you turn right on the Blackjack Trail. Here you make your second steep ascent – two hundred fifty feet in a quarter mile – finally arriving back on the ridge. The trail curves left (north) and follows the ridgeline, soon returning to the first junction. Head right on the fire road and make your descent back to El Toro Road.

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.

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.

Rock Pool via Grasslands Trail (Malibu Creek State Park)

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Crossing Malibu Creek

Dusk on the Grasslands Trail, Malibu Creek State Park

Rock Pool via Grasslands Trail (Malibu Creek State Park)

    • Location: Calabasas, near the intersection of Mulholland Highway and Las Virgenes Road.  From Highway 101, take the Las Virgenes Road exit and go south for 3.1 miles to Mulholland Highway.  Take a right on Mulholland Highway and almost immediately, look for the Grasslands Trail on the left.  Limited parking is available on the side of the road (if there is none, you can also park in a small dirt lot on the corner of Mulholland and Las Virgenes.)  From Pacific Coast Highway, drive north on Malibu Canyon Road for 6.3 miles (during which time the street changes its name to Las Virgenes).  Turn left on Mulholland.
    • Agency:  Malibu Creek State Park
    • Distance: 3.3 miles
    • Elevation gain:  350 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time:  2 hours
    • Best season: October – June
    • USGS topo maps: Malibu Beach
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 7

This enjoyable loop visits the Rock Pool, one of Malibu Creek State Park’s landmarks. Starting in the northeastern corner of the park, this trip is a nice, moderate workout that takes in some of the area’s best scenery.

From the Grasslands Trail, head south into the park, passing through a landscape of rolling hills and oaks that might seem more like the Midwest or wine country than Los Angeles. After a short incline, you come to a split. Head down-hill on an unsigned trail, with nice views of the Goat Buttes in front of you. Bear right at the next junction and soon you arrive at the bottom of the hill.

Turn right onto High Road, a wide fire road that goes under a canopy of large oaks, providing nice shade on hot days. Bear left at the next junction and soon you meet up with Crags Road, the main route through the park. To reach the Rock Pool, head straight, passing the left side of a picnic area and entering a canyon. High sandstone walls on both sides are popular destinations for rock climbers.

Soon you reach the Rock Pool, where you can sit at a picnic table and enjoy the scenery. The Rock Pool is created by volcanic boulders that dam the creek.

After retracing your steps, continue the loop by turning right on Crags Road. You cross a bridge, which is a nice place to stop and take pictures of the creek as it flows beneath the hills. Soon you bear left on a trail that goes through the meadow and crosses Malibu Creek. On the other side, pick up Waycross Drive, head briefly to the left and then make a right to stay on Crags Road. Soon you’ll see the Grasslands Trail heading off to the left. Make your ascent, and in a quarter mile, you rejoin the first segment of the loop. Retrace the last half mile back to Mulholland.

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

Posted on by dlockeretz

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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.

Park Avenue Nature Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

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Hillside on the Park Avenue Nature Trail

Ocean view from the Park Avenue Nature Trail

Park Avenue Nature Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

    • Location:  Hills north of Laguna Beach in south Orange County.  From I-405, take the highway 133 exit south for 8.5 miles.  Turn left on Forest, which becomes 3rd St, and after 0.3 miles total take a left onto Park Ave.  Go 1.8 miles on Park to its terminus in Alta Laguna Drive, and head left, and park at the end of the street.
    • Agency:  Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
    • Distance: 1.5 miles
    • Elevation gain: 400 feet
    • Suggested time: 1 hour
    • Difficulty: PG
    • Best season: All year (Hot during the summer)
    • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
    • Recommended gear: sun hat; hiking poles
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 6

Readers may notice that this trail’s name spells the word PANT, which is what you’ll be doing a lot of, especially if the day is hot. As short as this trail is, it’s surprisingly challenging.

This trail never gets far away from the nearby residential streets, but it still has a rugged feel, due to its steep descent, interesting sandstone geology and relative lack of foot traffic. The Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park trailhead at Alta Laguna Park is the starting point for this short loop.

From the northwest end of Alta Laguna Drive, follow the fire road, but stay straight as the West Ridge Trail branches off. Another spur to the right leads to the Carolyn Wood knoll, a vista point worth checking out if you have the time.

The Park Avenue Nature Trail descends, staying left as the Canyon Acres Trail branches of to the right. Enjoy the views of the canyon and the ocean in front of you before the trail makes a very steep descent.

After dropping 400 feet in about half a mile, you find yourself pleasantly isolated from the sights and sounds of the nearby residential streets. The trail winds around the side of the hill, passing by some interesting sandstone outcrops, before beginning an ascent back to Park Avenue. You reconnect with Park Avenue a mile from the start. Turn left and continue your climb on the paved street, which brings you to Alta Laguna Drive. Turn left and walk the last quarter mile to the car.

If you have time, you can continue to explore this side of Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park by continuing north along the West Ridge Trail.

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