Category Archives: Location: Orange County – Coast

Laguna Beach, Newport, Dana Point and more.

Quail Hill Loop

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Hills, sky and clouds on the Quail Hill Loop

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Quail Hill Loop

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

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

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

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

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

Serrano and Camarillo Canyon Loop (Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

On the Camarillo Canyon trail

Geology in Little Sycamore Canyon

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Serrano and Camarillo Loop

  • Location: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.  From I-405, take the Highway 133 exit and head south for 3.8 miles.  Turn right into the nature center (just north of the 73 freeway).  From Pacific Coast Highway, drive five miles and take a left onto an access road just north of the 73 freeway, where you can cross the southbound lanes and enter the nature center parking lot.  Parking is $3 per day.
  • Agency: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 4.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Elevation gain, trail condition)
  • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
  • Best season: November – May (Parking lot open 8am-5pm; nature center open 9am-4pm)
  • USGS topo map: Laguna Beach
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sunblock
  • More information: here; nature center home page here; trail map here
  • Rating: 7

This is a challenging and enjoyable hike located in the northern end of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, starting at the ultra-modern Nix Nature Center.  Like the popular Laurel Canyon loop on the south side of the freeway, this hike offers wide-ranging views including the San Gabriels and Santa Anas, passes interesting sandstone geology and visits some quiet, secluded canyons.  There isn’t much shade, and the distance and elevation gain required of this hike means that it is best done on a cool day.

From the nature center, head northwest on the Little Sycamore Canyon trail.  The trail makes a steep ascent, levels out for a while and makes another climb to arrive at the Serrano Ridge fire road.  On the way up, look for some geological formations on your right.

At the fire road, take a left and follow the ridge.  You get great views of Little Sycamore Canyon to the left and of the Irvine Open Space on the right.  The ridge line makes a few ups and downs before arriving at a four-way split.  Head left on the steeply descending Camarillo Canyon fire road (hiking poles may be helpful here).  At the bottom of the hill, you arrive at one of the most enjoyable stretches of the loop, heading through a green pasture with several live oaks.  You also get a good view of the higher hills in the park, on your left.

At this point, y0u’re heading east, back toward highway 133.   Shortly before you get there, take a left on the Stagecoach South trail.  This trail heads up a hill at a medium grade, making a few switchbacks before reaching a summit and descending to the nature center.

Boat Spur to Bommer Ridge (Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Ocean view from Boat Spur

Sandstone cave in Boat Canyon

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Boat Spur to Bommer Ridge (Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

  • Location: The end of Dartmoor St. in Laguna Beach.  From the 73 freeway, take the MacArthur exit (the last one before you have to pay a toll) and head south for 3.2 miles.  Turn left (south) on Pacific Coast Highway and go 5.8 miles to San Joaquin St.  Turn left and take a quick right on Hillcrest, and make the first left onto Dartmoor.  Drive 0.3 miles to the end of the street and park by Gate 14 to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
  • Agency: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 950 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: Laguna Beach
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 6

This challenging hike enters Laguna Coast Wilderness Park from the southwestern corner.  The elevation profile is similar to (although somewhat milder than) the nearby Laguna Bowl Loop, and this route has more solitude, plus better views of the coast.  One downside is that there is virtually no shade on the entire route, so consider wearing a hat, and definitely don’t forget the sunscreen.

From Gate 14 at the end of Dartmoor, head uphill on a fire road known as the Boat Spur, taking in nice ocean and mountain views as you go.  Stay straight at the first juncture you come to, and in 0.7 miles, you arrive at Boat Road.  Take a right and head north along a rolling ridge.  Straight ahead, you get great views Old Saddleback and (on clear days) the San Gabriels.  On your left is isolated Emerald Canyon in Crystal Cove State Park, and on the right is Boat Canyon, where you can spot some interesting geology if you look carefully.

After 1.3 miles on Boat Road, during which there are a few steep stretches, you arrive at Bommer Ridge.  To get a great view, make a quick right and then left, and head uphill to a flagpole where you can sit and enjoy a 360-degree panorama.  You can extend your hike on Bommer Ridge, but if you’re ready to call it a day, this makes a good turnaround spot.  On the way back, the ocean views are particularly good.

Nature Loop in the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Dusk in the Back Bay of Newport Beach

On the boardwalk, Nature Trail

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Nature Loop in the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve

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

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

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

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

Pacific Ridge Trail (Crystal Cove State Park)

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Catalina Island from the Pacific Ridge Trail

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

Pacific Ridge Trail

  • Location: Coastal Peak Park, Newport Coast.  From the 73 toll road, take the MacArthur exit (the last one that’s free).  Merge onto MacArthur, go 2.3 miles and turn left on San Joaquin Hills Road.  Go 2.5 miles, turn right onto Ridge Park Road and drive 1.8 miles to the end, and access the trail from Coastal Peak Park.  From P.C.H., take Newport Coast Drive north for 2.4 miles, turn right on Ridge Park Road and drive 1.5 miles to Coastal Peak Park.
  • Agency: Crystal Cove State Park/Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 2.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 400 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
  • Best season: October – May
  • USGS topo map: Laguna Beach
  • Recommended gear: Sunblock
  • More information: here; park map here.
  • Rating: 6

The Ridge Park trailhead, high in the hills of Newport Coast, is an access point for both Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.  Many possible hikes can originate from here, sharing in common great ocean views, interesting geology and in the spring, vibrant wildflowers.  The Pacific Ridge Trail, in the northwestern corner of Crystal Cove State Park, offers a nice sampling of all of the above. There’s virtually no shade, however, so keep that in mind.

From the gate at the end of Ridge Park Road, head right on the Pacific Ridge Trail.  For the first few minutes, you parallel the park and then pass by a residential area, before descending and crossing briefly through Laguna Coast Wilderness.  Views include Catalina and San Clemente Islands, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Santa Ana Mountains and more.   Look for a sandstone outcrop on the left side of the trail, with some small caves; it’s pretty accessible and invites further exploration (be careful, though).

After about a mile, the trail makes a major descent, and soon comes to a junction.  Here, the Ticketron Trail branches off to the left, and the main trail continues deeper into Crystal Cove State Park as the No-Name Ridge trail.  Unfortunately, the Ticketron Trail is closed as of this writing, but when it re-opens, it is possible to make a loop of this hike by using it to access the Deer Canyon and Bommer Ridge trails.

You can extend your hike farther to the south, but if you’re pressed for time, this is a good turnaround spot.  On the way back, look for nice views of Mt. Baldy and the San Gabriels.

Canyon Community Park (Costa Mesa)

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Sandstone bluffs in Canyon Community Park

Trail through the canyon

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Canyon Community Park

  • Location: 970 Arbor St, Costa Mesa.  From the end of the 55 freeway, head west (right) on 19th St.  Go 1.1 miles, take a right on Monrovia and then a quick left on Arbor.  In 0.2 miles, the park will be on your right.  Drive to the lower parking area.  From Pacific Coast Highway, go north on Newport Blvd. for 1.3 miles.  Turn left on 17th St, and in 0.6 miles, go right on Placentia.  In 0.5 miles, turn left on 19th St. and in 0.3 miles, go right on Monrovia.
  • Agency:  City of Costa Mesa
  • Distance: 1.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 100 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Seal Beach
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 2

Located on a 35-acre parcel tucked into a residential neighborhood in Costa Mesa, Canyon Community Park is a pleasant surprise for hikers.  The scenery here includes a small marsh, a quiet woodland and some sandstone geology.  There are a few trails that run through the park, and the loop described here strings several of them together, taking in the park’s variety.

From the parking area, walk on a paved path and head north, past a playing field.  The path leads out of the park’s main area, past an apartment complex and to a footbridge which crosses a small canyon that feeds into a marsh, which is well worth a look.

Head back toward the main area of the park on the paved walkway, and bear left on a dirt path that heads towards some sandstone cliffs, providing some nice up-close views.  The trail merges with another path that heads into the wooded canyon.  Just before you reach the end, take a hairpin turn to the right and head back.  You can add some adventure to your trip by following the canyon (which is usually dry) itself, or you can stay on the path that parallels it.

When you get back to the parking area, you can extend your hike a little by following a trail that follows the paved road.  Turn around at the playground, and take the service road back to the parking area.

If you enjoyed Canyon Community Park, make sure to check out the larger Talbert Nature Reserve nearby.

Irvine Open Space: San Rufino to Chaparral Park

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

View of Chaparral Park, Irvine Open Space

Hummingbird in the Irvine Open Space

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Irvine Open Space: San Rufino to Chaparral Park

  • Location:  Irvine, on the corner of Via Novella and San Rufino Drive.  From the 405 freeway, take the Culver Drive exit.  Go right and in 1.4 miles, turn left on Campus Drive.  Go 0.4 miles and turn right on Turtle Rock Drive.  Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Amalfi Drive, then a quick right on Via Novella.  Park at the end of Via Novella where it meets San Rufino Drive.
  • Agency: City of Irvine
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 350 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year-round
  • USGS topo map:  Newport Beach
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 3

Many trails, both paved and dirt, snake through Irvine, providing UCI students, families, commuters and other people in the area with easy and convenient options for getting exercise in nature.  The short route described here provides a quick workout with a nearly 360 degree view that includes the San Gabriels, Catalina Island, Old Saddleback and much more.

From the intersection of San Rufino and Via Novella, look for a trail leading uphill, across a concrete drainage ditch.  The trail heads uphill steeply through a field that is bright green after recent rains.  You curve to the right, continuing your ascent.  Several trails branch off to either side, but this route stays straight, soon arriving at a ridge.  The trail ascends to a summit, dips slightly and then reaches another summit.  Here, you get a good view of virtually all of Orange County.

At this point, you can return by the same route, or extend your hike by carefully descending the steep trail in front of you to Chaparral Park below (you will see a paved walkway leading to some stairs).  There are also plenty of other trails in the Irvine Open Space to check out if you liked this one.

Las Ramblas Loop

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Ocean view from Patriot Point

Heading back from Patriot Point

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Las Ramblas Loop

  • Location: San Juan Capistrano.  From I-5, take the Las Ramblas/Pacific Coast Highway exit and head northeast on Las Ramblas for 1.4 miles to the road’s end.  Park on the street.
  • Agency:  City of San Juan Capistrano
  • Distance: 3.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 900 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo map: San Juan Capistrano
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 6

This is one of the more enjoyable and challenging hikes in south Orange County.  There are several possible hikes that can be pieced together on the city trails of San Juan Capistrano, and the route described here, which might look a little like a marlin or a narwhal when plotted on a map, takes in some nice ocean, mountain and valley scenery.

From the gate, head northeast on the Las Ramblas trail, a fire road.  Ignore other trails branching off to the side.  The trail dips briefly and then climbs, soon reaching a junction.  The route ahead is your return trip; you will take a hard left onto the Harbor View trail.  This trail climbs steeply and soon reaches a four-way split.  Take the route on the right – the one that climbs up very steeply.  The good news is that this climb is the last major ascent on the route, and the views are great.

You descend and climb to another knoll, and then head west toward the ocean.   At this point, you may notice a flagpole in the distance; that marks the turnaround point.  Fans of vintage wooden roller coasters will appreciate this next stretch of the trail which goes up and down several small hills, with ocean views on the left and the Santa Anas and Capistrano Valleys on the right.

Soon, a trail branches off to the left.  This will be your return route.  You stay straight, onto the Patriot Trail, which climbs another hill and ends at the flagpole.  This area, known as Patriot Point, offers a nearly 360 degree view of the area.

You head back and take a left at the junction and a quick right onto the Foster Canyon trail.  This trail winds around the north side of the ridge, connecting soon with the Cerro Rebel trail.  Take a right and follow this trail back down to the Las Ramblas Trail.  Take a right and follow the trail back to the junction with the Harbor View Trail, and continue to the parking lot.

Note that as of this writing (1/7/11), portions of the trail have been damaged by recent rains.  The trails are still passable, but there are a few spots with eroded dirt that makes some of the navigation tricky.  There are also a few sink holes that have been left as a result of the rain, so if you stop to take pictures, make sure you don’t step in one.  I absolutely do not say this from personal experience whatsoever.

Colinas Bluff Trail to the Shea Trail

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

View from the Colinas Ridge Trail

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

Colinas Bluff Trail

  • Location: Laguna Niguel, on the corner of Marina Hills and Golden Lantern.  From I-5, take the Crown Valley Parkway exit.  Go southwest on Crown Valley for 0.3 miles, and go left on Cabot.  After 0.6 miles, go right on Paseo De Colinas.  After 0.9 miles, go left on Golden Lantern.  After a mile, park in the shopping center on the right side of the road (just past Marina Hills).
  • Agency: City of Laguna Niguel
  • Distance: 3.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 400 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
  • Best season: Year-round
  • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
  • More information: here; trip report here
  • Rating: 5

If you’ve made a New Year’s Resolution to get more exercise, and live in south Orange County, the Colinas Bluff Trail is a good place to start.  The 3-mile hike here can easily be expanded upon, and it makes a good training trip for experienced hikers.

From the shopping center (I didn’t promise you wilderness here, people), cross Golden Lantern, head south briefly and pick up the trail on the left.  You head uphill, and if the air is clear, you get nice views of the San Gabriel Mountains.  At a summit, the trail dips down, still paralleling the housing tracts of Laguna Niguel.  On the left, you can see almost all of south Orange County, with Old Saddleback standing imposingly in the background, and on the right, the ocean comes into view.

Soon you come to a steep second hill.  At the top, you get the best views yet of the hike.  The Shea Trail branches off at this point, and the Colinas Bluff trail continues downhill, but if you’re short on time, this is a good place to turn around.

Aliso Summit Trail

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

On the Aliso Summit Trail in south Orange County

Old Saddleback from the Aliso Summit Trail

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Aliso Summit Trail

  • Location: Laguna Niguel.  From I-5, take the Alicia Parkway exit and go southeast for 4.7 miles.  Go right on Highlands and go 0.6 miles to the second of the two intersections with Ridgeview Drive.  Park on the street.  From Pacific Coast Highway, take Crown Valley Blvd for 2.9 miles, go left on Alicia Parkway, go left on Pacific Island Drive and go right on Highlands.  The trail head will be on your left after a mile, at the first intersection between Highlands and Ridgeview.
  • Agency: Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 4 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season:  Year round
  • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
  • More information:  here
  • Rating: 3

This neighborhood trail provides great aerial views of Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, the ocean, Old Saddleback and if the air is clear, the San Gabriels and even San Jacinto Peak.  Wilderness it’s not, but it’s certainly a great place to get a good workout and fresh air.

The trail ascends steeply at first, passing around the back of some houses, and then it becomes more or less level as it makes its way along the ridge above Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park.  At 1.25 miles, the trail arrives at a saddle where you might be able to catch a glimpse of San Jacinto Peak.  The route passes by a street in a gated community and heads slightly to the right as it climbs higher.  At 2 miles, the trail climbs around a water tank to reach its end at Pacific Island.

Like many of the neighborhood trails I’ve written about, the Aliso Summit Trail is a very worthwhile destination for families, for people who have wanted to explore the outdoors but aren’t sure where to start–and even for veterans who want a good, convenient training hike between wilderness expeditions.

Valdido Trail to Aliso Peak

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

View of the ocean and Catalina from below the Aliso Peak summit

Greenery on the Valdido Trail

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved.  Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability.  All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Valdido Trail to Aliso Peak

  • Location: South of Laguna Beach on Pacific Coast Highway.  From downtown Laguna Beach, take P.C.H. south for 3.5 miles.  Go left on West St. and make a quick left onto Valdido Road.  Park on the corner of Valdido and Toto Loma.
  • Agency:  Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 1.6 miles (out and back)
  • Elevation gain: 500 feet
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Difficulty: PG
  • Best season: All year
  • USGS topo map: “San Juan Capistrano”
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 5

The Valdido trail is a short, but quite steep, route to Aliso Peak.  It climbs up quickly from just above the Pacific Coast Highway to meet the trail from Seaview Park just below the summit.

From Valdido Road, take the trail north into the park.  Almost immediately, the sounds of the street fade as you enter a steep-walled canyon.  The first portion of the trail is flat, but once you cross the creek, you step on nature’s version of an elevator.  Wooden stairs help as you make the steep ascent, and when you stop to catch your breath you’ll be rewarded with great ocean views.  On clear days, look for Catalina and San Clemente Islands.

Soon, the trail arrives at a saddle, where it meets the trail from Seaview.  Here, you get nice views of the rest of the park, and on some days, you can see the San Gabriels.  Take a left and follow the trail to the summit, where you get an aerial view of the coast.

Retrace your steps to the junction, and if you have time, check out the short Toovet trail, which wraps around the south slope of Aliso Peak and provides views of the ocean that are arguably better than those from the summit.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Sunset from the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Marbled Godwit at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved.  Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability.  All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

  • Location: Pacific Coast Highway between Huntington Beach and Sunset Beach, across from Bolsa Chica State Beach.  From I-405, take Seal Beach Blvd. to its end at Pacific Coast Highway and head left (south) for 4.5 miles.  You’ll pass the entrance to the reserve (across the street from the beach), and take a U-turn and head back.  Alternately, take I-405 to Golden West, go south on Golden West for 4 miles and take a right on Garfield.  Go 0.8 miles to Garfield’s end at Seapoint, take a left on Seapoint and go to its end, 0.7 miles to Pacific Coast Highway.  Head right on Pacific Coast Highway, go 1.5 miles and turn right into the reserve.
  • Agency: Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
  • Distance: 1.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: Level
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Difficulty Rating: G
  • Best season:  All year
  • USGS topo map: “Seal Beach”
  • More information: here; trip report here
  • Rating: 4

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is an easy and convenient way to get out into nature.  It might not be wilderness–you are right next to the noise of the traffic on Pacific Coast Highway and the area’s popularity precludes any chance of solitude–but it’s really the place on the coast between San Pedro and Corona Del Mar where one can do anything that even resembles hiking.   It’s also a great place to see birds, including egrets, cormorants, sandpipers and pelicans.  Lots and lots of pelicans.  Add to that clear-day views of Old Saddleback, Baldy and Catalina Island – plus great sunsets – and you’ve got a pretty decent little package.

From the parking area, cross a wooden bridge to begin your loop (check out the interpretive plaques describing the various wildlife of the area before you start).  The path travels through the wetlands and heads left onto a small ridge.  You head northwest, more or less paralleling Pacific Coast Highway.  After a little over half a mile, you come to a gate where the trail splits.  To the right, you can climb up a small hill to an overlook, where there are benches and more interpretive displays.  You can also extend your hike on some of the other trails (including one that goes all the way to Warner Ave), or you can make this your turnaround point.

Back at the junction, continue past the first trail toward P.C.H. and take a left just before the highway.  Follow the path, which alternates between gravel and dirt, half a mile back to the parking area.

While the San Juan Loop might have been my first “official” So-Cal hike, this was one of the few outdoor areas I took the time to explore before I became a true hike geek.  It’s a great place to visit for people who aren’t aware of how much nature is in Orange County, and when the conditions are best, it’s got enough scenery and wildlife to keep veteran hikers coming back.

Dripping Cave from the West Ridge Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Interesting geology on the way to Dripping Cave

View of Old Saddleback from the Mathis Canyon Trail

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Dripping Cave from the West Ridge 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: 4.2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating:  PG-13 (Steepness, elevation gain)
  • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
  • Best season:  October – June
  • USGS topo maps: “San Juan Capistrano”; “Laguna Beach”
  • Recommended gear: sun hat
  • More information: here;  park map here.
  • Rating: 7

This route to Dripping Cave (aka Robber’s Cave) is more scenic – and quite a bit more challenging – than the trip from Alicia Parkway.  It utilizes the west entrance to the park, from High Drive in the hills above Laguna Beach.

From the street, head north into the park on the West Ridge Trail, enjoying great views of Old Saddleback and the surrounding Orange County foothills and neighborhoods.  Just after half a mile, look for the steep Mathis Canyon trail branching off to the right.  As you descend into the canyon, try not to let the fact that you will soon have to go back up this stretch ruin your views.

At the bottom of the hill, the Oak Grove trail branches off to the right (if you have extra time and energy, this short trip is worthwhile).  Soon after, look for another trail on the right, signed for Dripping Cave.  You enter a wooded area, pass through a meadow, and then switchback up a small ridge.  Notice the interesting sandstone caves on the right as you climb.

When you reach the top of the ridge, you descend again, and then the trail heads back into a wooded area where you meet up with the other trail from the south.  Head right and make the last few steps to the cave.

On the way back, if you are lucky, you will at least have some breeze as you climb the Mathis Canyon trail.  Your work is not done when you get to the top of the hill – you still have half a mile and about three hundred feet of elevation gain on the West Ridge trail to retrace your steps to the parking lot – but as you make this final climb, you’ll have nice views of Catalina Island, the ocean, and Laguna Canyon to enjoy for your troubles.

Corona Del Mar Sea Caves

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Sun and surf at the sea caves, Corona Del Mar

Geology on the beach at Corona Del Mar

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Corona Del Mar Sea Caves

  • Location: Newport Beach.   From the north, take highway 73 to Mac Arthur (the last free exit), and head south for 3.2 miles to Coast Highway.  Take a left, go 0.6 miles and turn right on Marguerite.  Take Marguerite to its end at Ocean and park anywhere.
  • Agency: Corona Del Mar State Beach
  • Distance: 1.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 50 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: All year during low tide (see here for more info)
  • USGS topo maps: “Newport Beach”; “Laguna Beach”
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot and Afield: Orange County
  • More information:  here (includes video)
  • Rating: 6

The sea caves of Corona Del Mar are a great way to beat the heat.  If you want to check out some interesting coastal geology without having to go all the way down to Dana Point, this is a good hike to do.  It is a little trickier than the Dana Point trip, however, so if you don’t have a lot of experience climbing over slippery rocks and with beach hiking, definitely make sure you go at low tide.

From your car, head southeast on Ocean and head down the curving walkway to the beach.  Here you will see Arch Rock, located a little ways off shore.  Head right, toward the rocks, and carefully make your way up and over them toward the sea cave.  The cave goes back at least ten feet, and is about six feet tall at its highest.  This of course all depends on the tides; expect the waves to reach the two entrances to the cave.

The short stretch from the cave to the state beach is the hardest part of the trip, so if the tides are high and you aren’t confident with your rock scrambling abilities, you can retrace your steps along the shore and back up the ramp to your car.  However, if you want to continue, when you reach the beach, you can get back to Ocean Blvd.  either by another walkway similar to the one you came down, or by a staircase on the opposite side of the parking lot.  The staircase leads to a place called Lookout Point, where you get nice views of the Corona Del Mar beach, the Newport area and Catalina Island.

Dana Point Sea Caves

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

The second and larger sea cave at Dana Point

Crystal ice plants

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved.  Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability.  All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here.   Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Dana Point Sea Caves

  • Location: Dana Point.  From I-5, take the Pacific Coast Highway exit.  Go 1.3 miles west and take a left on Dana Harbor Drive and go 1.3 more miles to the end.  From the south,
  • Agency:  Ocean Institute
  • Distance: 1.4 miles
  • Elevation gain: level
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Difficulty rating: PG
  • Best season: All year, during low tide (see chart here)
  • USGS topo map: “Dana Point”
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 6

If none of the ten Halloween hikes I posted earlier work for you this weekend, consider this short but challenging trip to the sea caves of Dana Point.  Between the caves and the area’s history as a filming locale for pirate movies, there’s a lot of intrigue on this hike.

From the parking area, descend a staircase to the beach and head westward along the rocks.  If the tide is low, progress shouldn’t be too tough, but as always, be careful when you’re walking across this kind of terrain.  On your left are great views of the ocean and on your right are the bluffs, with interesting geology and flora, including crystal ice plants.

After half a mile or so, you come to the first sea cave.  Shortly beyond that is the second, which has two entrances.  You may be able to scramble through the smaller one, which comes first, but if not, go a little farther to the larger entrance.  The cave is large enough that you should be able to stand comfortably inside it.  Here, you’ll get a unique view of the ocean.  This makes a good turnaround point, but if the tide is low and you feel confident in your rock-scrambling abilities you can head farther down the coast to the Strand Beach.

When you get back to the parking lot, make sure to check out the replica of the Pilgrim, the boat which Richard Henry Dana described in Two Years Before the Mast.  If you enjoyed this hike, be sure to check out the similar sea caves farther north along the coast, near Corona Del Mar.

Rancho San Clemente Ridgeline Trail

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Dana Point from the Ridgeline Trail

The 'burbs, and the 'Back, from the Ridgeline Trail

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Rancho San Clemente Ridgeline Trail

  • Location: 721 Avenida Salvador, San Clemente.  From the north, take I-5 to the El Camino Real exit.  Turn left on south El Camino Real, go 0.2 miles and head left on Avenida San Juan.  Go 0.7 miles and turn left on Avenida Salvador.  The trailhead is between Calle Montserrat and Calle Ameno on the right side of the street.  If you are coming from San Diego, take the El Camino Real exit and head right.  Take an immediate left on Avenida San Juan.
  • Agency:  City of San Clemente
  • Distance: 6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 600 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
  • Best season:  October – June
  • USGS topo map: “San Clemente”
  • Recommended gear: sun hat
  • More information: trip report here; map here
  • Rating: 5

San Clemente’s Ridgeline Trail provides a good workout with a lot of nice views, including Old Saddleback, the ocean, northern San Diego county, Catalina and San Clemente Islands, and if you’re lucky, Mt. Baldy.  It’s also conveniently located, not far from the freeway.  The only catch, if this sort of thing bugs you, is that it’s paved.   It’s also quite popular, and it never really leaves the sights or sounds of the south Orange County suburbs, but on a clear day, the views are hard to beat.  The ups and downs make it a great cardio workout, and even veteran hikers who live in the area will find it useful as a training trail.

From Avenida Salvador, enter through the gate and immediately begin a short but steep ascent.  You pass by a water tank, and when the route levels out, you are on the ridgeline between San Diego and Orange Counties.  After a mile or so, the trail dips to the right of some radio towers, and begins another short, but very steep stretch which will surely have your heart pumping.  You are rewarded for your efforts with a nice stretch beneath the shade of some willows (more or less the only shade on the trip).

Soon you arrive at a picnic area, which is the approximate half way point.  Take a break if you like and then head down to Calle Del Cerro.  Head right and pick up the remainder of the trail across the street.  You head up, down and then up again, finally arriving at a place called Knob Hill, where there are two benches.  Here you can enjoy a nice view of the ocean before heading back.

Rock It Loop in Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

Sunset on the Palos Verdes Peninsula from the trail head

Heading into Wood Canyon

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Rock It Loop in 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: 7.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 850 feet
  • Difficulty Rating:  PG-13 (Distance)
  • Suggested time: 3.5 hours
  • Best season:  October – June
  • USGS topo maps: “San Juan Capistrano”; “Laguna Beach”
  • More information: here;  park map here.
  • Rating: 7

South Orange County’s Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park may best be known for Dripping Cave, but there’s a lot of other stuff to see throughout the park’s 4,200 acres.   This trip visits the canyons from a lesser-used entrance on the west side of the park.  If you have the time and energy, you can make a side-trip (about a mile each way) to the cave.

From the trail head, follow the West Ridge fire road downhill, north, into the park.   To the left, you can see the interesting sandstone formations of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park; straight ahead, Modjeska and Santiago Peaks and other other Santa Ana summits loom, and to the right, you can see the expanse of Aliso & Wood.  After a mile and a half, look for the Rock It Trail, which descends steeply into the canyon.   The noise from nearby highway 133 quickly vanishes.

At the bottom of the hill, head left on the Wood Canyon trail, which parallels one of the two canyons that gives the park its name.   The trail passes through some peaceful groves of oaks before rising into an open area that borders a housing tract.  Here, the Wood Canyon trail becomes the Cholla Trail, which climbs up the north edge of the park to rejoin the West Ridge Trail.  Turn left (south) and follow the West Ridge Trail back to Alta Laguna Blvd.  If you time it right, you can return to the trail head in time to watch a great sunset over the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Dripping Cave in Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

As seen in the Nobody Hikes in L.A. guidebook!

Inside Dripping Cave

Rolling hills on the way to Dripping Cave

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Dripping Cave in Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

  • Location: Aliso Viejo.  From I-5, take the Alicia Parkway exit south (right if you’re coming from the north, left if from the south), and go 4 miles.  The park is on the right side of the road, 0.2 miles past the intersection with Aliso Creek.  From Laguna Beach or Dana Point, take Pacific Coast Highway to Crown Valley Parkway.  Head north on Crown Valley for 3 miles and take a left on Alicia Parkway.  The park will be on your left at 2 miles.  Parking is $3 for weekdays, $5 for weekends and $7 for holidays.
  • Agency: Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
  • Best season:  September – May
  • USGS topo maps: “San Juan Capistrano”, “Laguna Beach”
  • Recommended gear: insect repellent; sun hat
  • More information: here; trip reports here.
  • Rating: 4

Tucked away beneath the civilized world of south Orange County, Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park quietly expands over 4,200 acres, providing a quick and easy escape for those who live nearby.  The park contains some nice oak groves and interesting geology, and while this hike might not have a whole lot of the former, it visits a great example of the latter.

The first mile and a half of this hike is a “take one for the team” sort of mission: Heading southwest from the parking lot on the maintenance road, you have to pass a few buildings and still hear the noise from Alicia Parkway.   There is no shade on this stretch either, so an early start is best.  However, as you get farther into Aliso Canyon, it gets quieter.  You are still on a service road, but at 3/4 of a mile, you pick up a single track, and at 1.5 miles, you arrive at a junction.  Head north (right)  on the Wood Canyon Trail, and the scenery gets much better.

You pass by Cave Rock and continue to another junction signed for Dripping Cave, where you turn left.   Work your way through a slightly overgrown stretch of trail and you arrive at Dripping Cave.   It is also known as Robber’s Cave; thieves once used it as a hideout.  You can still see pegs on the wall where the thieves hung supplies.

From here, retrace your steps and head back to the main trailhead, or if time and energy permits, follow the Wood Canyon Trail deeper into the park.

Laguna Bowl Loop

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

The only shade on the whole hike - enjoy it!

Looking back on Laguna Bowl Road - which fortunately you go down, not up.

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Laguna Bowl Loop

  • Location: Laguna Beach.  From downtown, take Pacific Coast Highway to Aster Street.  Head north on Aster for 0.3 miles, go right on High Drive, go one block and take a left on Poplar.  Take Poplar to its end and park on the street.
  • Agency: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 3.6 miles
  • Elevation gain: 950 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (steepness)
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season:  Year-round (hot in summer)
  • USGS topo map:  Laguna Beach
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sunblock; sun hat
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 5

Ronald Reagan supposedly once said that politics is like show business: you have a heck of an opening, coast for a while and have a heck of a close.  He could have also been talking about the Laguna Bowl Loop in south Orange County.

This loop provides a quick and vigorous workout–very close to downtown Laguna Beach.  Although the beginning stretch is sure to get your blood pumping and your hams burning, the hike’s coastal location keeps it cool during the summer, especially if you get an early enough start.

From the parking area, head northwest on the paved Water Tank Road, through a gated fence (#19), into the park.  The beginning of this ascent is, simply put, one of the steepest sections of trail I’ve ever hiked.  Fortunately, it doesn’t last very long.   After arriving at the titular water tank, look for a single-track trail heading right next to the metal fence.  The ascent continues on this trail for another half mile or so before finally leveling out at a fire road.  Here, your efforts are rewarded, as your quick climb has removed you from the noise of the streets below.

At 1.5 miles, take a hard right on the Laguna Bowl Road, which heads south over a few rolling bumps on the ridge.  To the left are nice views of the Santa Ana Mountains and to the right, the rest of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and neighboring Crystal Cove State Park.  Stay right at a signed junction and then begin a very steep descent.  The fire road ends at gate #18, where you take a right onto Laguna Canyon Road.  Go for about a quarter mile (past the Laguna Playhouse) and take a right on Acacia.  Then take an immediate right on High Drive and head uphill.  There is no sidewalk here, so be careful of cars.  Follow High Drive around its curve to another ascent which will bring you back to Poplar.  The sign is obscured by a tree so make sure you don’t miss it.  Take a right and head back to your car.

Laurel Canyon Loop/Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Posted on by dlockeretz

SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend

As seen in the Nobody Hikes in L.A. Guidebook!

On the Willow Trail, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Laurel Canyon Loop/Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

  • Location:  Highway 133 between Irvine and Laguna Beach.  From Interstate 405, head south on highway 133.  Look for the parking lot on the right side of the road just past the intersection with El Toro road, 0.7 miles past the 73 freeway overpass.  From Laguna Beach, the trailhead is on the left side of the road, 3 miles north of Pacific Coast Highway (just before El Toro).  Parking is $3 per car on weekdays, $5 on weekends and $7 on holidays.
  • Agency:  Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
  • Distance: 3.5 miles
  • Elevation gain: 700 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Best season: All year
  • USGS topo map:  Laguna Beach
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • More information: here
  • Rating: 7

This loop trail in the Laguna Coast Wilderness offers shade on hot days, and on clear days provides great views of the ocean, the Santa Ana Mountains, the San Gabriel Mountains and more.  Barely a stone’s throw from the 73 toll road, it still manages to provide a sense of isolation and seclusion.  The hike is not to strenuous for novice hikers, but can still give veterans a good workout.

Leave the parking area on a fire road, and almost immediately, look for the turnoff for the Laurel Canyon trail.  (The loop can be hiked either way, but it’s a lot easier counter-clockwise).  You’ll pass by an interesting sandstone rock that looks strangely anatomical (my friends and I have a series of nicknames for this rock, none of which are suitable for print in a family-oriented blog such as this one).  The trail makes a short climb and descent and then passes through a meadow parallel to the road.  Then it angles to the left, passing by a giant rock that reminds of me of the marshmallow man from “Ghostbusters” in a weird sort of way.

After about half a mile, you enter a woodland, where sycamores and oaks provide shade.  The ascent becomes pretty vigorous at this point, reaching a junction after a mile or so.  Take a left on the fire road, which continues its ascent to meet Willow Canyon Road.  Take a right here and make a short climb to Bommer Ridge, where, weather permitting, you can get great views of the ocean and Crystal Cove State Park to the north.

Retrace your steps back to the junction, and continue on the Willow Canyon fire road.  The descent is steady, and you get nice views not only of Old Saddleback and the Santa Ana Mountains, but of the lower areas of the park and the very trail you took.  Before long you arrive back at the parking area.  This is a hike that I have done several times, and while it is definitely best done on a cool, clear day, it has a lot to offer everyone.