Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

Posted on November 14, 2011 by dlockeretz

Bonita Canyon Falls

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portuguese Bend Reserve: Rim & Grapevine Loop

Posted on November 6, 2011 by dlockeretz

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.

Windes and Pacifica Loop Trails (Santiago Oaks Regional Park)

Posted on November 2, 2011 by dlockeretz

Ascending the Windes Trail, Santiago Oaks Regional Park

View from the top of the Pacifica Trail

Windes and Pacifica Loop Trails (Santiago Oaks Regional Park)

Location: Northeastern Orange County, east of the city of Orange. From route 55, take Katella east (it becomes Villa Park Road and then Santiago Canyon Road) for three miles to Windes Drive. Go left on Windes and follow it for about 3/4 of a mile into the park (the road is narrow and has a lot of sharp turns, so be careful). The parking fee is $3 for the day, or $5 on weekends and $7 on holidays.
Agency: Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation gain: 350 feet
Difficulty Rating: G
Suggested time: 30 minutes
Best season: All year
USGS topo maps: Orange
More information: here; park map here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 5

If you only have time for a short hike at Santiago Oaks Regional Park, this is a good one to do. The figure-8 shaped double loop provides a nice amount of scenic variety and a pretty good workout in the bargain.

From the far end of the main parking lot, walk up the stairs past the nature center and follow the signs to the Windes Loop. The short loop ascends quickly up the side of the hill, providing nice vistas of the Anaheim Hills and the canyon below. After climbing, the Windes Trail descends to a junction with the Pacifica Loop. Head left to a split where you head uphill. A steep climb brings you to the top of a knoll, where on clear days you can see the ocean and the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

The trail heads downhill steeply, soon completing the loop. Continue downhill, past the end of the Windes Loop, finishing off by the nature center.

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

Posted on November 1, 2011 by dlockeretz

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.

Deervale-Stone Canyon Park

Posted on October 26, 2011 by dlockeretz

On the trail in Deervale-Stone Canyon Park

Deervale – Stone Canyon Park

Location: Sherman Oaks. From the 101 freeway, take the Van Nuys Blvd. exit. Head south (left if you’re coming from Los Angeles, right if you’re coming from the west valley) for 0.7 miles and turn left on Valley Vista. In 0.2 miles, stay straight as Valley Vista merges with Beverly Glen, and turn right to stay on Beverly Glen. Go 0.7 miles and turn right on Deervale Drive. Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Deervale Place. Go 0.4 miles and park at the end of the street.
Agency: City of Los Angeles Department of Parks & Recreation
Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation gain: 400 feet
Suggested time: 1 hour
Difficulty Rating: PG
Best season: Year round (hot during the summer)
USGS topo map: “Van Nuys”
Recommended gear: hiking poles
More information: Article about the history of access to the park here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 5

Tucked away in the hills above the Valley, 80-acre Deervale-Stone Canyon Park is something of a mystery to L.A. hikers. Access to the park has been a source of contention among local home-owners. The park is currently run by the City of Los Angeles, but this may change in the future. As of this writing, the park can be reached from the top, at the end of Deervale Place. The beginning of the trail runs through private property, but hikers are permitted as long as they stay on the route.

From the end of Deervale, follow the sometimes obscure trail downhill (the trail is said to have been “created” simply by years of being trampled by hikers, before any formal route was established). On clear days, you get great views of the Valley. You follow a ridge, sometimes with shade and sometimes exposed. The trail makes a steep dip, levels out for a while and makes another steep dip, arriving in a pleasant grove of green grass and trees. It ends at a private driveway, 0.8 miles from the top of the hill. The lower end is inaccessible to the public, meaning the trip can only be done as a “reverse” hike.

Regardless of what its legal status may be, Deervale-Stone Canyon is a very enjoyable destination, a nice little pocket of nature not far from the urban edge of the Valley and Hollywood. Hopefully it will remain accessible for hikers–and perhaps the 80-acre parcel will see the development of some new trails too.

Linden H. Chandler Preserve

Posted on October 13, 2011 by dlockeretz

Woodlands in the Linden Chandler Preserve

Linden H. Chandler Preserve

Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula. From Los Angeles and points north, take I-110 south to Pacific Coast Highway. Turn right and go 1.5 miles to Western. Turn left and go 0.8 miles to the five-way intersection and take a right on Palos Verdes Drive North. Go 1.3 miles and turn right on Dapplegray. Take a quick left on Bucksin, follow it to its end and park by the fence. From the Vincent Thomas Bridge, stay straight to get onto Summerland St. In a mile, turn right on Western. Go 2.1 miles and turn left on Palos Verdes Drive North.
Agency: Linden Chandler Preserve/Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
Distance: 1.2 miles
Elevation gain: 300 feet
Difficulty Rating: G
Suggested time: 30 minutes
Best season: Year-round
USGS topo map: San Pedro Hills
More information: here
Rating: 3

Tucked between the Rolling Hills Country Club and Palos Verdes Drive North, the 28-acre Linden Chandler Preserve provides a nice quiet getaway with a good variety of scenery. Hikers can do the short loop described here, or easily extend their trip on a number of bridle trails that radiate outward from the preserve.

From the end of Buckskin Lane, follow the path into the park. From this vantage point, your clear day views include the Los Angeles basin and the San Gabriel Mountains. Take a hard right on a path that heads downhill, and almost immediately, take a left and make a small loop around the end of the golf course. At a T-junction, head right and downhill. You can take a somewhat rough single-track trail that branches off (be careful), or stay on the fire road. At the bottom, head right and into a pleasantly shaded area. This is an example of the riparian habitat the preserve was formed to protect. You climb out of the wetlands and soon reach another junction with the signed Dale’s Trail.

Head left (you can extend the trip by going right, downhill and into a short loop) and soon arrive at the Empty Saddle trailhead. Head left onto the Howard Trail (again you can extend things on the bridle trail that heads straight from here, leaving the preserve.) A steep descent brings you to another trailhead and a dirt road. Head left, past the baseball field and continue through some more woodlands. Stay straight and begin a steep climb back up to the trailhead at the end of Buckskin. You can extend the route on the Dapplegray Trail, which continues east, making a few ups and downs before ending at Palos Verdes Drive East.

In case you were wondering, Linden Chandler (1900-1995) was a concrete and gravel magnate who lived in the area.

Aswut Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

Posted on October 9, 2011 by dlockeretz

View from the top of the Aswut Trail

Modjeska, Santiago and goats on the Aswut Trail

Aswut Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

Location: Laguna Beach. From the north, take Pacific Coast Highway south of downtown Laguna Beach and turn left on Bluebird Canyon. Go 0.3 miles and turn right on Summit Ave. Go 0.7 miles and make a slight right onto La Mirada. Go 0.1 miles and turn left on Del Mar. Park on the corner of Del Mar and Balboa, just north of Moulton Meadows Park. Alternately, from points south, take P.C.H. to Nyes Place. Turn right and drive 1.4 miles (Nyes becomes Balboa along the way) and park on the corner of Balboa and Del Mar.
Agency: Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation gain: 350 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
More information: here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 5

Located in the southwestern corner of Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, the Aswut Trail makes a short, but vigorous–and scenic–workout, and it can also be used as an access point for other trails for a longer hike.

That the Aswut Trail is really a bike path shouldn’t turn off hiking purists; there aren’t many paved trails that provide both great ocean and mountain views. Keep in mind, however, that the route is completely exposed.

From the end of Balboa, head north along the bike path, taking in great views of the canyons and the Santa Anas on the right and the ocean on the left. At about half a mile, you reach a junction with the Meadows Trail on the right, which leads down into the park. There’s a large pen of friendly goats here, too.

The path continues, heading downhill briefly and then making a steep climb to meet residential Top of the World Drive. The trail branches off to the left, makes a steep dip and then finishes with another steep climb.

On the way back, you can vary your route a little by heading left on the Meadows Trail. Just before the trail dips down into the canyon, head right and walk along a single-track trail that parallels the paved Aswut Trail. Follow this trail back to Moulton Meadows Park, and take a right on a stone walkway to head back down to Balboa.

Serrano Creek Park (Lake Forest)

Posted on October 5, 2011 by dlockeretz

Crossing Serrano Creek

Eucalyptus grove in Serrano Creek Park

Serrano Creek Park (Lake Forest)

Location: 25101 Serrano Road, Lake Forest. From I-5, take the Lake Forest Drive exit. Head northeast (right if you’re coming from the south, left if from the north) and go 2.2 miles to Serrano Road. Turn left and go 0.2 miles, and the park is on the right.
Agency: City of Lake Forest
Distance: 2.1 miles
Elevation gain: 100 feet
Difficulty Rating: G
Suggested time: 1 hour
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: El Toro
More information: here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 3

This fun neighborhood hike is great for people who want to get out into nature but may be a little intimidated by longer trails. Even veteran hikers who live in the area will find it to be an easy and convenient getaway into nature, and the variety of scenery is pretty impressive for a small park in the middle of suburbia.

There are several trails, both paved and dirt, that run through the park. The route described here may seem a little bit convoluted, but one doesn’t have to follow it exactly to enjoy the park. Wherever you are, you’re likely to be close to one of the main roads, so you really don’t have to worry about getting lost.

From Serrano Road, head down into the park and cross through the playground area. On the opposite side of the park, look for a trail heading down toward the creek. Carefully descend (the banks are washed out, so take extra care, especially if you’re hiking with little kids.) You cross the creek and pick up a slightly obscure trail that heads up toward a fire road, passing along the back side of some houses. Head left and almost immediately look for another trail leading back down toward the creek. After making the second creek crossing, you arrive at one of the main trails through the park. Instead of walking on the paved path, you can head right on a dirt trail and follow it for a while. Shortly after it joins the main path, it branches off again.

After once more rejoining the paved path, the trail comes to a split. Head right, following the path of the creek, and once again go onto dirt when the paved road makes a U-turn. After about a mile, you arrive at Bake Parkway. Turn around and follow the bike path on the opposite side of the creek. Shortly, just as you pass a pathway leading to residential Camino Trebol on the left, look for a footpath heading back into the creek. You cross the creek and rejoin the path, heading left back toward the park entrance.

Here you can trace your exact route back, but for a little more variety, head uphill at the juncture (by the big oak tree with its limbs touching the ground.) The paved path meets a T-junction, where a dirt path heads through a beautiful grove of eucalyptus trees. This wooded trail crosses a few other paved paths before meeting up with one of the main walkways. Bear right and follow the walkway back to the playground area.

Regardless of which route you take at Serrano Creek Park, it’s sure to be a fun and enjoyable trip, an easy way to escape inland Orange County’s heat and enjoy some nature, peace and quiet in a place where it would seem hard to find.

Baldwin Hills Overlook

Posted on October 4, 2011 by dlockeretz

View from the Baldwin Hills overlook

Baldwin Hills Overlook

Location: Culver City. From Los Angeles, take I-10 west to the La Brea exit. Head south on La Brea Blvd. Go a mile and turn right on Jefferson. Go a total of 1.9 miles on Jefferson (the street takes a left turn after La Cienega; if you stay straight, it becomes National Blvd.) The trailhead is on the left side of Jefferson, at the intersection with Hetzler. Take a U-turn and park on the side of the street. Parking is free but it tends to get crowded. From Santa Monica and points west, take I-10 to La Cienega. Turn right and go 1.1 miles to Rodeo. Turn left and go 0.3 miles to Jefferson. Turn left and go 0.3 miles to the trailhead at the intersection with Hetzler. From I-405, take the Sepulveda exit. Head northeast for 3.1 miles (Sepulveda becomes Jefferson) and look for the trailhead on the right side of the road.
Agency: State of California/Baldwin Hills Conservancy
Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation gain: 350 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG
Suggested time: 1 hour
Best season: All year (Hot during the summer)
USGS topo map: Hollywood
Recommended gear: sun hat; sunblock
More information: here; trip report and photos here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 4

There aren’t many places in So-Cal that provide views of the ocean, the Santa Monica Mountains, the Hollywood Hills, the San Gabriels, downtown L.A. and more, and even fewer of them are located right within the city, but the Baldwin Hills Overlook is just that. Only 511 feet above sea level, its strategic location provides panoramic views on clear days, and it’s also a good workout that is very convenient to downtown L.A. and the west side.

Nature lovers and those seeking solitude might not find what they want here, but this trail should be considered as a good alternative to Griffith Park, Temescal Gateway or other hiking areas near downtown L.A. A few times up and down the hill will have even veteran hikers stopping to catch their breath.

Between Hetzler Road, the dirt foot trail and the steep staircase, there are several ways to get to and from the overlook, and they can be combined in various loop routes. There are some different trails at the top for those who want to extend the hike. The trail is probably the most pleasant way to ascend and descend, and that is the route described here.

From Jefferson, you begin climbing the switchbacks, quickly gaining altitude. At the base of the stairs, swing left and continue criss-crossing your way up the hill. You pass by the stairs several times. After the third long switchback, take a hard left (the trail straight ahead meets up with Hetzler Road.) You continue to go up, including one short but very steep stretch, and at just under a mile, after curving around the back of the overlook, you arrive. Here you can take a well-earned rest while enjoying some of L.A.’s most panoramic views.

Viewridge Trail

Posted on September 30, 2011 by dlockeretz

Viewridge Trail panorama at dusk

Footbridge on the Viewridge Trail

Viewridge Trail

Location: Off of Topanga Blvd. in Topanga Canyon. From Highway 101, drive south on route 27 (Topanga Canyon Blvd.) for 3.7 miles. Turn left on Viewridge and drive 0.5 miles to the end of the road. Park by the signed trail head. From Pacific Coast Highway, head north on Topanga Canyon Blvd. for 9 miles and turn right on Viewridge.
Agency: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation gain: 300 feet
Suggested time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty Rating: G
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: “Canoga Park”
More information: here
Rating: 5

Known also as the Santa Maria Canyon Trail, the Viewridge Trail is located in the eastern end of Summit Valley/Edmund D. Edelman Park, in Topanga Canyon. This is the type of trail that’s great to keep in mind for a quick little getaway into nature before or after work. It’s short, but offers a nice variety of canyon and ocean scenery, and is not as well traveled as some of the other trails in the eastern Santa Monica Mountains.

From Viewridge, look for the signed trail and begin your descent. (The lower end of the hike, Santa Maria Road, is private, so you must start up here and do it as a “reverse” hike.) You get nice views into Topanga Canyon, espeically at dusk, and the area is pleasantly quiet, with the hills blocking out much of the street noise.

The descent takes you in and out of a few wooded areas. In one, you cross Santa Maria Creek over a sturdy footbridge. Near the bottom of the trail, stay left at an intersection and enter a meadow. Soon after, the trail ends at Santa Maria Road. If you want to extend the hike, you can cross Santa Maria and continue to an overlook; you can also explore the rest of Summit Valley on the other side of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Walnut Creek Park (Antonovich Trail)

Posted on September 28, 2011 by dlockeretz

On the Antonovich Trail in Walnut Creek Park

Blue Heron in Walnut Creek Park

Walnut Creek Park (Antonovich Trail)

Location: San Dimas, just off the 57 Freeway. From Orange County and other points south, take the 57 Freeway to the Via Verde exit. Turn right on Via Verde (west) and go 0.2 miles to San Dimas Ave. Turn right and drive a mile. Look for a turnout on the left side of the road, just before it goes under the freeway, and park here. (It’s a double line, so if you want to do it by the book, you have to drive a mile farther and U-turn at the intersection with Puddingstone.)
Agency: Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation
Distance: 5.2 miles
Elevation gain: 400 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG
Suggested time: 2.5 hours
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: “San Dimas”
Recommended gear: hiking poles
More information: Additional trail photos here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 4

Just a few miles from the five-level interchange between the 10, 57 and 71 freeways in San Dimas, residents of the Inland Empire and San Gabriel Valley can make a quick get-away into a cool, wooded canyon.

To be sure, the Antonovich Trail never really escapes the sights or sounds of civilization, and there’s an unfortunate amount of trash and graffiti (why, people? Why?) Nevertheless, it’s a good trail to keep in mind for days when you want to escape the hot Inland Empire heat and don’t feel like driving into the mountains.

From the dirt turnout, the trail switchbacks down a steep slope into the canyon, where it follows the stream. There are a few spots where the stream must be crossed, and it is necessary to follow the banks to find the best place. It should usually be pretty obvious, but take good care when crossing.

In just under a mile, the trail crosses a paved road. Head right and then continue through a dirt lot, picking up the trail on the opposite side. The trail splits, but the two paths soon merge again.

At a second split, you can make the route more challenging and scenic by heading uphill (left). After a hundred feet of ascent, a faint trail continues to the left, but your route heads back down into the canyon. Shortly after, the trails merge and another stream crossing gets you to a campground.

The trail continues on the opposite side, staying right at the next fork, and reaching a shallow but wide stream crossing. In addition to looking down, look up; acorns may fall from the oak trees (as was the case with the author). After, you come to an unusually deep crossing, which is virtually impossible to negotiate without getting at least somewhat wet (so this can make a good turnaround point for those who are dead set on staying dry.) On the opposite side, you cross under a pleasant canopy of oaks before reaching another split. Head left and make an ascent to the trail’s end at Puente Street.

If this sounds like a lot of work for a mid-rated hike, it’s still well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Because the trail doesn’t have much of a destination, it can make for a nice short escape into nature even if it’s not completed.

Bienvenida Loop (Topanga State Park)

Posted on September 25, 2011 by dlockeretz

On the Bienvenida Trail, Topanga State Park

Hills on the Bienvenida Trail, Topanga State Park

Bienvenida Loop (Topanga State Park)

Location: Topanga State Park, between Malibu and Santa Monica. From Santa Monica, take the Pacific Coast Highway and turn right on Temescal Canyon Road. Go 1.1 miles to the end and turn left on Sunset. Go 0.6 miles and turn right on Bienvenida. Go for a mile and look for a signed entrance to Topanga State Park just before the gated community entrance. Park on the corner of Floresta and Bienvenida and enter the park on the east side of Bienvenida.
Agency: Topanga State Park
Distance: 2.1 miles
Elevation gain: 550 feet
Suggested time: 1 hour
Difficulty Rating: PG
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: “Topanga”
More information: trail map here; video here
Rating: 5

This easy to miss entrance to Topanga State Park allows access to a wide variety of trails. The short but vigorous loop here makes a great after-work excursion, but it can easily be extended to include Skull Rock and other destinations in Temescal Gateway Park an Topanga State Park.

From Bienvenida, follow the trail along a path between two houses, and begin switchbacking up a steep slope. Soon you arrive at a junction where you head right. The trail climbs and descends (several side-trails branch off, but the main route sticks close to the side of the hill.) You get nice ocean views as you make your way to the Temescal Ridge Trail. Head left at the junction and continue to make a steep climb (this is part of the popular loop from the Temescal Gateway trailhead to Skull Rock.) In half a mile, you arrive at a four-way split. The right trail heads back down to the parking area; the straight-ahead trail leads to Skull Rock. Your route takes a sharp left on the Bienvenida Trail.

The next three quarters of a mile are very enjoyable, as the trail weaves in and out of some small canyons, with good ocean views. At the first junction you came to, head right and retrace your steps back to Bienvenida Avenue.

Turner/Cooke Loop (Fullerton)

Posted on September 22, 2011 by dlockeretz

Bud Turner Trail at Laguna Lake

On the Juanita Cooke Greenbelt trail

Turner/Cooke Loop

Location: Fullerton, on the corner of Yuma Way and Laguna Road, in the Sunny Hills neighborhood. From the 91 Freeway, take the Euclid exit and drive north for 3.3 miles. Turn right on Laguna Road (just past Rosecrans) and park on the corner of Laguna Road and Yuma Way, by the south entrance to Laguna Lake Park. From the 57 Freeway, take the Imperial Highway exit, head west for 3.6 miles and turn left on Euclid. Go 1.4 miles and turn left on to Laguna Road (just before Rosecrans.)
Agency: City of Fullerton Parks and Recreation
Distance: 2.3 miles
Elevation gain: 250 feet
Difficulty Rating: G
Suggested time: 1 hour
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: La Habra
More information: Everytrail report here
Rating: 2

This loop uses two of Fullerton’s neighborhood trails and a short stretch on a paved road to create a trip that provides a nice workout, convenient for before or after work (or even on a lunch break). During days when north Orange County is experiencing its notorious heat, this trip is a good way to get exercise.

From the corner of Yuma and Laguna, head north into Laguna Lake Park on the Bud Turner Trail. Follow the single-track that heads uphill, paralleling the bridle path (be careful of mountain bikers.) The trail splits a few times, but always merges back together, so you can take either way. At half a mile, you cross Clarion, and then begin a pleasant stretch along man-made Laguna Lake, a popular destination for trout fishermen.

At 0.8 miles, cross Lakeside Terrace and head right on the Juanita Cooke Greenbelt trail. This pleasant stretch of trail is largely shaded and much of the noise from the nearby streets is blocked off. You cross a railroad bridge, and soon after (1.8 miles) you arrive at Laguna Road. Head right and follow Laguna Road for a half a mile to the starting point. There is no sidewalk for most of this last stretch, so be careful of cars (although traffic isn’t too heavy here). The road makes a few twists along the way, so follow the street signs. There’s a decent sized climb before the road descends to the starting point, making you burn a few more calories before heading back to the car.

Buck Gully (Newport Beach)

Posted on September 21, 2011 by dlockeretz

Dragonfly in Buck Gully

Stream crossing on the Buck Gully Trail

Buck Gully

Location: Corona Del Mar. From the 73 Freeway, take the MacArthur exit and head south for 2.3 miles. Turn left on San Joaquin Hills Road, go 0.7 miles and turn right on Marguerite. Go 0.8 miles and turn left on 5th Ave. Drive to the end of 5th and park on the side of the road on Poppy. (Note that there is no public parking on Poppy north of 5th). From Pacific Coast Highway, go north on Poppy (left if you are coming from the north, right if from the south) and park just before 5th.
Agency: City of Newport Beach (Phone: 949-644-3309)
Distance: 5 miles
Elevation gain: 600 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG
Suggested time: 2.5 hours
Best season: Year-round (depending on conditions)
Recomended gear: Sun Hat
USGS topo maps: Laguna Beach; Tustin
More information: Trip description here; trail map here
Rating: 5

Located in an open space surrounded by Newport Beach, Newport Coast and Corona Del Mar, the trails of Buck Gully provide a natural getaway that feels surprisingly isolated–especially considering all of the development nearby. The area has undergone a lot of restoration recently, although it is prone to being washed out during the rainy season, so stay updated on trail conditions before planning a trip here. Much of the trail is overgrown, although it is never too hard to follow. There are three tricky stream crossings, and a few places where the trail is eroding, so be careful. That being said, the hike isn’t all that difficult.

From Poppy, head downhill on a paved road and follow the dirt trail into the bushes. The first two stream crossings happen pretty quickly, and you make your way northeast through the canyon, going in and out of the shade. The trees and bushes block out much of the sights and sounds of civilization nearby. You may find yourself pushing back the branches a few times along the way.

The third stream crossing is the approximate halfway point on the hike. Here, water flows around a culvert in a surprisingly deep pool. After negotiating the crossing, the trail becomes easier to follow, leading through a pleasant grove of trees before getting back into the open and beginning an ascent. You enter a marsh area, and the trail becomes sketchy for a little while before joining a fire road. Follow the road east to a split, where you head left. The ascent continues before finally topping out at San Joaquin Hills Road. If you want to extend the hike, you can head left and walk along the sidewalk to Coastal Watch Park, where you get great views of the Newport Harbor.

Corriganville Park

Posted on September 20, 2011 by dlockeretz

Caves in Corriganville Park

Sun and trees in Corriganville Park

Corriganville Park

Location: 7001 Smith Road, Simi Valley. From the 118 Freeway, take the Kuehner exit and head south for a mile and turn left on Smith. Drive 0.3 miles to the end of Smith and park in the dirt lot.
Agency: Rancho Simi Recreation and Parks District
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation gain: 100 feet
Suggested time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Rating: G
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: “Simi Valley East”
More information: here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 4

Corriganville Park is not only a nice, convenient place to escape the heat of the San Fernando Valley, but it provides hikers with a glimpse at movie history. The park’s oak-lined canyons and unusual rock formations have made it a favorite filming location. It’s named after Ray “Crash” Corrigan, a cowboy actor who used to own the land.

There are several trails that tour the park, so there are any number of possible routes. The loop hike here is a nice easy one that visits some of the park’s more interesting scenery. Start at the far end of the lot on the Interpretive Trail, which leads through a pleasant grove of oaks. In a quarter mile, you come to a split. All of the trails end up re-joining each other, so it doesn’t really matter which one you take, but this route follows the middle fork. You reach some campground buildings and head left on a fire road which passes through another wooded area, soon arriving a T-junction. This is the park’s main trail, the Corrigan Loop.

Head right (left takes you back to the parking lot) and make your way around a large jumble of rocks. On your right, high above, you may see and hear the cars on the 118 freeway. The trail rises and soon comes to another split. As before, ultimately all trails lead to the same place, but to follow this route, head right (straight), downhill. At the next split, head left while the loop trail continues, soon ending up in a residential area.

A short climb brings you to another fire road, where you can take a detour by heading straight to a clearing where you get a nice view of the Santa Susanna Pass. Returning to the fire road, head downhill. On the left, some sandstone caves slightly off the trail are worth checking out.

At the next split, head right (the left trail is the loop, which will take you back to where you already were). You pass by the remains of Silvertown, one of the movie sets, and then you take a left to return to the parking lot.

Los Liones Trail

Posted on September 16, 2011 by dlockeretz

On the Los Liones Trail

Ocean view from the Los Liones Trail

Los Liones Trail

Location: Topanga State Park, between Malibu and Santa Monica. From Santa Monica, take the Pacific Coast Highway and turn right on Sunset Boulevard. Go 0.3 miles on Sunset, take a left on Los Liones and drive half a mile to the end of the street. Park on the right side of the street in the lot across from the church.
Agency: Topanga State Park
Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation gain: 600 feet
Suggested time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty Rating: PG
Best season: Year round
USGS topo map: “Topanga”
More information: here (trip report to Parker Mesa Overlook); Everytrail report here
Rating: 6

This is a scenic and enjoyable trip in the little-used southern end of Topanga State Park. The Los Liones Trail starts just off of Sunset Blvd. and quickly gets hikers into a quiet canyon where there are few signs of civilization; it’s pleasantly secluded, especially for being in the more populated eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains.

From the signed trail head, head into the canyon. The trail ascends steadily, occasionally over rocky terrain. The trail is somewhat overgrown in places, although never too badly. As you get higher, the trail clings closely to the side of the canyon, resulting in some steep drop-offs that may make some hikers a little nervous.

Nice views of the ocean and the nearby peaks of Topanga open up as you near the top of the trail. At 1.3 miles, the trail enters a clearing just before the Topanga Fire Road, where you can sit on a bench and enjoy a panoramic ocean view before heading back down. Ambitious hikers can continue by heading left on the fire road, which leads to the rest of Topanga State Park. The Parker Mesa Overlook, 2.5 miles away, is a popular destination.

Mt. Hillyer

Posted on September 12, 2011 by dlockeretz

Meadow near the Hillyer summit

Rocks near the Hillyer Summit

Mt. Hillyer

Location: Angeles National Forest. From I-210 in La Canada, take the Angeles Crest Highway (route 2) northeast for 26 miles to the turnout for the Chilao Flat Visitor Center (not to be confused with the turnout for the Chilao Campground, which comes earlier if you’re coming from L.A.) Turn left, and drive 0.7 miles to the signed Silver Moccasin trail and park in the small dirt lot. A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
Agency: Angeles National Forest/Los Angeles River Ranger District
Distance: 5.8 miles
Elevation gain: 1,100 feet
Suggested time: 3 hours
Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Altitude, distance, elevation gain)
Best season: Year-round (depending on conditions)
USGS topo maps: Chilao Flat
Recommended gear: hiking poles; insect repellent
More information: here; here (alternate route); Everytrail report here
Rating: 8

This loop hike to Mt. Hillyer and the Horse Flats Campground is an enjoyable and varied trip. Mt. Hillyer doesn’t have much of a summit, but there’s plenty of eye candy on the way up and down, and you’re likely to have some nice solitude here. Mt. Hillyer is a good training hike for more difficult high altitude summits.

From the road, head north on the Silver Moccasin trail. The trail switchbacks up the ridge, taking in nice views to the south along the way. Look for Strawberry Peak, Mt. Lawlor and some of the other front country summits. There isn’t much shade, but a few pines, oaks and manzanitas do provide a little cover.

In a mile, you reach a split where the Silver Moccasin trail continues to the right. Head left, soon arriving at the Horse Flats Campground. Look for the signed Mt. Hillyer trail. The ascent continues, passing by a clearing where the views to the south extends all the way to Old Saddleback in Orange County. There are a few spots where the trail is vague, but when in doubt look for footprints or bike tracks.

Soon, you arrive at the summit (2.5 miles). The views aren’t great, but you can see Mt. Pacifico to the north. There are two small knolls and after the second, the trail dips down to an attractive meadow, one of the more scenic parts of the route. You make a steep descent, soon arriving at the Santa Clarita Divide Road (3.3 miles.)

Head right on the paved road. In half a mile, you reach the north end of the Horse Flats Campground. Head right, and then right again at the next intersection. In 0.7 miles, you’ll return to the Silver Moccasin trail, completing the loop. Retrace your steps back down the mountain to your car.

El Matador Beach

Posted on September 7, 2011 by dlockeretz

Rocks and surf, El Matador Beach

Sea cave on El Matador Beach

El Matador Beach

Location: 32210 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. From Santa Monica, take Pacific Coast Highway for 24 miles. Turn left into the signed parking lot for El Matador Beach (just after Trancas Canyon Road and before Encinal Canyon Road.) Parking is $8 per car per day.
Agency: State of California
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation gain: 100 feet
Difficulty rating: PG
Suggested time: 1 hour
Best season: Year round (low tide – check here for more information)
USGS topo map: “Malibu Beach”
Recommended gear: swim suit; towel
More information: here; Yelp reviews here
Rating: 6

Past Zuma Beach and Point Dume on the way to the Ventura County line, there are several small, less-visited beaches in Malibu. One is El Matador, where swimmers–and hikers–can see some of the coastline’s most interesting geology, including some small sea caves and rugged bluffs.

From the parking area, head downhill on a steep, sometimes washed out path (families with small kids will want to take extra care here.) As you descend, you get dramatic aerial views of the beach almost immediately. The path becomes a metal staircase which takes you down to sea level. Head left (west), passing through a natural cut in the rocks. You pass a few small sea caves and eventually come to a steep wooden stepladder that leads to a private home. Beyond the ladder, a large rock outcropping blocks, for all practical purposes, any further progress. Past this, the coastline continues to La Piedra and El Pescador Beaches. The rock walls create a nice, secluded little cove where hikers can sit and watch the waves–and perhaps take a short swim–before heading back.

Santa Margarita River

Posted on September 1, 2011 by dlockeretz

The Santa Margarita River - turnaround point just before Willow Glen

Margarita Peak from the 500-foot trail

Santa Margarita River

Location: North of Fallbrook. From I-5, take highway 76 northeast for 13 miles to Bonsall. Turn left on Mission, follow it into Fallbrook for a total of 6.7 miles. Take a sharp right turn (be careful, this intersection is tricky) and take an immediate left on Pico. Drive a total of 1.2 miles (Pico becomes De Luz) and bear right onto Sandia Creek Drive. Go 1.1 miles and park in the dirt turnout just before Rock Mountain Drive. From I-15 south of Temecula, take the Mission Road/highway S-13 exit and head west for 5 miles to Fallbrook, and turn right on Pico.
Agency: Fallbrook Land Conservancy
Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation gain: 800 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG
Suggested time: 3 hours
Best season: September – May
Recomended gear: hiking poles
USGS topo maps: Temecula, Fallbrook
More information: here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 7

There are some places in the country where walking along a freely flowing river is commonplace, but in Southern California, it’s surprisingly rare to be able to do that. Tucked away in northern San Diego County, the Santa Margarita River is a popular spot with hikers, joggers and equestrians. While there are a few signs of civilization along the route, there are none of the concrete barriers and retaining walls that seem to surround most of Southern California’s rivers.

Although the area gets hot during the summer, much of the hike is shaded, so with an early start, this hike can be doable almost any time of year. There are also a wide variety of trails to pick, so if you’re not up for doing the entire loop, you’ll probably find that a shorter trip through this area can be just as enjoyable.

The trail leaves from the east end of the parking area. Some parts are washed out and eroded, so be careful as you make your way along the route. There are several splits where equestrians are asked to take the lower (usually left) path and hikers, the right. You get some nice looks at the peaceful, smooth surface of the river, beneath the shade of large oaks.

Just over a mile in, the trail begins a hot, exposed climb. From the top, you are rewarded with views of the hills nearby, including Margarita Peak, which holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain in San Diego county west of I-15. You head back down into the canyon, and as you do, you may notice a faint trail coming in from behind. This is the return route.

You continue along the river, soon arriving at a split. Head right (signed for Rainbow Creek), and walk through a jungle-like stretch with thick vegetation. Soon you leave this and climb again to another vista point. The 500-foot trail, which you will take on the return, branches off to the right. Stay straight and descend to the banks of the river. Shortly before reaching Willow Glen Road, the trail meets the river. This is the turnaround point, where you can sit and enjoy the scenery before turning around.

On the return, head left on the 500-foot trail. Why it’s called that I’m not sure (it’s 1.5 miles long); maybe that’s just one of life’s little mysteries. It winds around the upper folds of the canyon, almost completely exposed except for a short stretch where it dips into the shade of some oaks. You get great views of Margarita Mountain and some of the rolling hills nearby that look pretty atypical of what one might expect from San Diego.

The trail passes by a landfill and makes a sharp right, descending back into the canyon. Soon it meets up with the main trail. Head left and retrace your steps to the parking area.

Abalone Cove

Posted on August 30, 2011 by dlockeretz

Sea Dahlia trail at Abalone Cove

Cascade on the shore at Abalone Cove

Abalone Cove

Location: 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. From From I-110 in San Pedro, take a left on to Gaffey St., and a quick right onto 1st St. Go a mile and take a left onto Western Ave. Go 1.7 miles and take a right onto 25th St. Go a total of 4.5 miles (25th St becomes Palos Verdes Drive South). Make a U-turn at Sea Cove Drive and turn right into the park. Parking is $5 per car.
Agency: Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
Distance: 1.7 miles
Elevation gain: 300 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG
Suggested time: 1 hour
Best season: All year (12-4pm on weekdays; 9am-4pm on weekends; closed New Years’ Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas)
USGS topo map: “San Pedro”
Recommended gear: hiking poles
More information: here; trail map here; Everytrail report here
Rating: 6

Secluded Abalone Cove has some of the Palos Verdes Peninsula’s more rugged, remote scenery. The parking fee and limited hours, while perhaps a turn-off for some, also keep the crowds slim.

There are a wide variety of trails in the park. The double loop described here samples some of them, creating a short but surprisingly challenging hike with some steep climbs and very sharp drop-offs. Families with young kids will want to be careful.

From the parking area, head east on the Chapel View Trail. Across Palos Verdes Drive South, look for the Wayfarer’s Chapel poking up above the trees. The trial dips downhill to join the Beach School Trail, a paved road. Head down to a T-junction and turn right on the Sea Dahlia trail. A short but steep descent brings you to a canyon. Head right, toward the mouth of the canyon to arrive at the rocky beach.

Head left, making your way over the rocks, toward the huge bluff, passing by a small waterfall. Just before you arrive at it, head uphill on a paved road, the Olmstead Trail (an option if you want to extend the hike by exploring the far southeastern end of the park). This route uses the other end of the Sea Dahlia trail heads off to the left–steeply uphill, right next to the edge of the cliff. Climb this and begin a panoramic, although somewhat nerve-wracking, walk along the side of the bluffs. (If you have to ask if there is a railing of any kind here, perhaps you might want to bypass this portion of the hike.)

The Sea Dahlia trail eventually descends on a short but steep knife-edge, back into the canyon, and you return to the beach. This time, continue to the right and pick up the Beach School Trail, by the lighthouse. Head back east briefly before picking up the Abalone Cove Trail on the left. It ascends steeply through some brush before arriving back to the bluff top. Access the Via de Campo trail, which has some nice ocean views. It circles around the picnic areas and arrives back at the parking lot.

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