Tag Archives: Adventure

Mt. Lee via Cahuenga and Burbank Peaks

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The "Lone Pine" on Burbank Peak

The steep approach to Burbank Peak

Mt. Lee  via Cahuenga and Burbank Peaks

  • Location: Wonder View Drive and Lake Hollywood Drive in Hollywood.  From downtown, take Highway 101 to the Barham Blvd. exit.  Turn right on Barham, go 0.3 miles and turn right on Lake Hollywood Drive.  Go 0.5 miles and park on the corner of Lake Hollywood Drive and Wonder View Drive.  From the 134 Freeway, take Forest Lawn exit.  Go 2.3 miles on Forest Lawn and turn left on Barham.  Go 0.8 miles and turn left on Lake Hollywood Drive and go 0.5 miles to Wonder View Drive.
  • Agency:  Griffith Park
  • Distance: 3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,300 feet
  • Suggested time: 2 hours
  • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Steepness, terrain, elevation gain)
  • Best season: October – May
  • USGS topo map:  Burbank
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat
  • More information: detailed trip report here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 7

Great scenery and interesting history make this one of the most enjoyable hikes in the Hollywood Hills and Griffith Park.   This hike travels through the western end of Griffith Park, land once owned by Howard Hughes.  Although short, the steep ascent to the ridge and the rugged terrain between Cahuenga Peak and Mt. Lee make this a challenging hike.

This route visits three summits in the Hollywood Hills, each with their own character.  Burbank Peak (1,690 feet) is the westernmost of the three, known for the single pine found on its flat summit.  Cahuenga Peak (1,820) is the highest point in the Hollywood Hills.  Mt. Lee (1,680) apparently has some sort of sign on it that people seem to like seeing.

The route begins with a quarter mile walk up private Wonder View Drive.  Though paved, the street is nice and quiet and provides views that make the reason for its name obvious.  On the way up, you’ll see downtown L.A., the Hollywood Reservoir and more.

When Wonder View Drive ends, look for a single-track trail bearing right, heading steeply up the slope of the hill. Despite the intimidating grade (it climbs about 500 feet in half a mile) and occasionally rocky terrain, this part of the trail provides some very enjoyable views to the south. After making a switchback, the trail reaches the ridgeline between Burbank and Cahuenga Peaks. Here, you get great views to the north, including the San Gabriel, Verdugo and Santa Susana ranges.

To get to Burbank Peak, head left and make a gradual climb. You can sit beneath the shade of the lone pine, also known as the Tree of Knowledge. This is the westernmost peak of the Hollywood Hills and arguably has the best views of the three summits on this route.

From Burbank Peak, head back east and follow the ridge to the summit of Cahuenga. (The trail splits a couple of times on the way, but the two forks merge quickly, so it doesn’t matter which route you take). Though taller, Cahuenga’s summit isn’t as scenic as Burbank Peak’s, and there isn’t really any place to sit and enjoy the view. It is a good spot to catch your breath, however, before continuing on to Mt. Lee.

From Cahuenga’s east slope, the trail continues steeply downhill. Although the terrain is a little rough, the trail is easy to follow. There is one short drop that will probably require hands as well as feet, but other than that, there’s nothing that a couple of hiking poles can’t solve. After dropping steeply, the trail climbs a knoll, drops again and then approaches Mt. Lee. Just before reaching the service road, take a left and head briefly downhill. (It may appear as if you should go right and uphill; the author did this, almost knee-capping himself on a jagged rock, only to find that the route was a dead end.) You join the service road, head right and follow it past the sign to Mt. Lee’s summit.  Here, you can look at the Hollywood Sign from above, and take in the rest of the view before heading back.

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

Canyon Acres Trail (Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park)

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Sunset over Catalina Island from the Canyon Acres Trail

Full moon and sandstone geology, Canyon Acres Trail

Canyon Acres 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: 2.6 miles
      • Elevation gain: 850 feet
      • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
      • 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

This short but steep “reverse” hike explores the southwestern corner of Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. There’s a nice variety of scenery, including great ocean views, aerial vistas of Laguna Canyon and the characteristic sandstone geology of the area. You can also see Old Saddleback, and on clear days, the San Gabriels. This trail is a great place to watch the sunset, and it is short enough that it can be done easily as an after-work excursion, as well as on the weekends.

From the end of Alta Laguna, follow the Park Avenue Nature Trail past the billboard and downhill. Where the nature trail heads off to the left, take a right to access the Canyon Acres trail, a fire road. The trail bends to the left and starts heading downhill, providing nice views of Laguna Canyon far below. Several false trails branch off, although the main route is pretty obvious.

After a steep descent, the trail levels out for a little while and begins another descent. Look for some sandstone caves on the right (and possibly some people climbing inside them). At 0.8 miles, the trail splits again. Head right, around a horseshoe-shaped curve that takes in some great ocean views. As you round the side of a knoll and head back into the canyon, you get a nice look at some more geology, including an outcrop that may remind some of Griffith Park’s famous Bee Rock.

The lower end of the trail is pleasantly quiet, protected from the nearby street noise. At 1.3 miles, you reach a bridge that connects the trail to the end of Canyon Acres Drive. There’s a nice wooded area where you can sit for a little bit and catch your breath before making the steep climb back to Alta Laguna. The silver lining is that whenever you have to stop and catch your breath, you’ll have some great views to enjoy. If you really want to burn a few extra calories, try returning via the Park Avenue 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. 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.

Spring Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon Trails

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Dusk on the Spring Canyon Trail

Oaks on the Spring Canyon Trail

Spring Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon Trails

    • Location: Thousand Oaks, on the corner of Heavenly Valley and Hemlock Lane.  From Highway 101, take the Lynn Road exit.  Head south for a mile and turn left on Heavenly Valley Road.  It may appear to be a private alley way, but public access is allowed.  Drive 0.3 miles to the top of the hill and park on the corner of Heavenly Valley and Hemlock.  From the west, take highway 101 to Ventu Park Road.  Turn right and drive south for 0.5 miles.  Turn left on Lynn Road, drive 0.4 miles and turn right onto Heavenly Valley.
    • Agency: Conejo Open Space Foundation
    • Distance: 3.2 miles
    • Elevation gain: 400 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 3 hours
    • Best season: Year round
    • USGS topo map:  Newbury Park
    • More information:  here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 4

This enjoyable suburban hike takes in a nice variety of scenery. On clear days, you may get a glimpse of the ocean between the hills; you’ll also see the Santa Susana Mountains, the Santa Monicas and a nice panorama of Thousand Oaks. The Spring Canyon Trail also provides access to the longer Los Robles Trail if you want to extend the trip.

From the end of Hemlock Lane, follow a dirt trail uphill into a grove of oaks. This is the Spring Canyon Trail, which runs parallel to the backs of some houses before bending southeast at half a mile. You head downhill, leaving behind the noise of suburbia, and into the canyon. After 0.9 miles, stay straight as the Los Robles Trail branches off to the right (eventually heading up toward Angel Vista, also described on this site.) Shortly afterward, look for the Oak Creek Trail on the left.

This short loop is popular with mountain bikers, so be careful as you make your way through it. You can hike it in either direction. Assuming you head right, you’ll go down into a shady canyon and soon come out at Greenmeadow St. Turn left and walk 0.1 miles to a parking area where the second half of the loop trail starts. (This stretch of road has no sidewalk, and it can be hard to see the cars coming and going, so although traffic is usually light, be cautious.)

At the parking area, where there are picnic tables and restrooms, you begin walking on the second half of the Oak Creek Loop Trail, which is designed to be accessible for wheelchair riders and for the blind, with several Braille plaques describing some of the scenery.  After 0.4 miles, you complete the loop.  Head right and turn right again when you get back to the Los Robles Trail, and retrace your steps.

Although it doesn’t offer scenery as dramatic as other trials in the area such as Los Robles or those at Lang Ranch, this short trip is well worth a visit if you’re in the area; it makes a nice before or after work trip, and

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

Santa Rosa Loop (Wildwood Park)

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Sunset from the Santa Rosa Trail

Looking north on the Santa Rosa Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

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Moon over the Backbone Trail

Backbone Trail between Mulholland Highway and Etz Meloy Motorway

Backbone Trail: Encinal Canyon Road to Etz Meloy Motorway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Piedra Blanca

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The sandstone formations of Piedra Blanca

Crossing Sespe Creek in the Los Padres National Forest

Piedra Blanca

      • Location: Los Padres National Forest north of Ojai.  From the town of Ojai, drive 15 miles north on highway 33 (a total of 28 miles from Highway 101.)  Turn right on Rose Valley Road and drive 6.5 miles to the Piedra Blanca trailhead.  Park at the campground and pick up the Sespe Creeek trail at the end of the lot. A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
      • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
      • Distance: 2.8 miles
      • Elevation gain: 500 feet
      • Difficulty Rating: PG
      • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
      • Best season:  October – June
      • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
      • Recommended gear: hiking poles  (for stream crossings)
      • More information:  here
      • Rating: 8

If one were to mix the unusual geology of Vasquez Rocks with the wide desert and mountain views of the Desert Divide south of the San Jacintos, the result might be something like this hike in the Los Padres National Forest. While Piedra Blanca may be something of a drive for most L.A. area hikers, it’s worth a visit, especially if you have enough time to combine it with other hikes in the area.

From the end of the Lion Campground, pick up the Sespe Creek trail, which starts by the information board and the restrooms. Even from here, you can see your destination: the huge sandstone outcrops that stick out from the desert floor, a mile away as the crow flies. The trail crosses the creek three times, which can be a little tricky if the water level is high (rocks and logs are usually put together to form makeshift bridges, and hiking poles will help too.)

Shortly after the third crossing, you’ll come to a split. Head left and begin climbing, taking in nice aerial views of the creek as you ascend. Head right at the next intersection, and soon you’ll find yourself with great up-close views of the sandstone slabs.

At 1.4 miles from the campground, the trail dips downward. It continues another mile toward Piedra Blanca Camp, and then deeper into the Sespe Wilderness, options if you want to extend the trip. However, for this route, the saddle here marks the turnaround point. With care, you can scramble up one of the formations and take in nice views of the Sespe Creek area to the south and the wilderness to the north before heading back.

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

West Shadow Hills Loop

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Looking north from the Shadow Hills

Mt. Lukens and the San Gabriels from the Shadow Hills

West Shadow Hills Loop

    • Location: North of Burbank, between La Tuna Canyon Road and Sunland Blvd.  From I-5, take the Sunland Blvd. exit.  Head north for 0.8 miles and turn right on La Tuna Canyon.  Go 0.6 miles and turn left on Ledge Ave.  Park on the corner of Ledge and Horse Haven.  From I-210, take the La Tuna Canyon exit and head west for 4 miles.  Turn right on Ledge Ave.
    • Agency:  County of Los Angeles
    • Distance: 4.5 miles
    • Elevation gain: 1,100 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Steepness, elevation gain)
    • Suggested time: 2.5 hours
    • Best season: November-  April
    • USGS topo map:  Burbank
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles ; sun hat
    • More information: Shadow Hills Wikipedia page here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 6

Poking up between the Verudgo Mountains and the Angeles National Forest, the Shadow Hills aren’t exactly a household name for L.A. hikers, but they do sport a nice variety of trails and are well worth a visit if you’re in the area, especially if the air is clear. On ideal days, you can see the Santa Monica Mountains, the Verugos, the Santa Susana and the Hollywood Hills. The area also has some of the best up-close views of the San Gabriels in all of L.A., especially of Mount Lukens.

Although there does not seem to be any formal system of trails here, navigation is pretty easy, and there a variety of routes that hikers can take. The figure-8 loop described here is a good workout with nice views. Some hikers may be turned off by the fact that there is over a mile of walking on streets, but this route doesn’t have to be followed exactly.

From the corner of Horse Haven and Ledge, look for a bridle trail heading steeply uphill. You climb almost 500 feet in half a mile before the trail levels out somewhat. Stay straight as two other trails branch off (you will use both of these paths later) and follow the ridge, passing the north side of two knolls. Here, you get great views of the north San Fernando Valley.

A mile and a half from the start, you come to an attractive meadow. Look for an obscure trail making a hairpin turn to the left, and take it. (You can continue on the ridge route if you want to extend the hike.) Now, you head downhill, with some great views of the western end of the San Gabriels, and 1.9 miles from the start, you reach Shadow Way, a residential street and alternative trailhead. Follow Shadow Way downhill to Shadow Island. Take a left and continue your descent to Sunland Blvd. Here, you have to cross the street (there’s a stoplight) and head left on a bridle path.

After half a mile on Sunland (2.8 miles from the start), you reach Rotto Avenue. There is no stoplight here, but traffic is usually pretty light (you can continue 0.4 miles down Sunland to cross at the light at Wheatland, if you prefer.) On the south side of Sunland, Rotto wastes no time ascending, soon terminating at a fire road. The climb continues, providing nice views of the eastern end of the San Fernando Valley. The trail rejoins your previous route, 3.7 miles from the start. Head left and almost immediately take a right on one of the other trails you saw earlier. (You can continue straight and retrace your steps to Ledge Avenue if you prefer). You descend through a canyon, with nice views of Mt. Lukens on the left. The trail splits (both routes end up at Horse Haven, but the right one is shorter). At Horse Haven, follow the bridle path on the north side of the street 0.3 miles back to your car.

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

Rose Valley Falls

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Rose Valley Falls

On the trail to Rose Valley Falls

Rose Valley Falls

  • Location: North of Ojai in the Los Padres National Forest.  From the town of Ojai, head north on highway 33 for 14 miles (25 miles from Highway 101 in Ventura) to Rose Valley Road.  Turn right and go 3.1 miles to Rose Valley Lake Road.  Turn right and drive 0.3 miles to the end of the road and park in the campground by the signed trailhead to Rose Valley falls.   A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
  • Distance: 0.8
  • Elevation gain: 250 feet
  • Suggested time: 45 minutes
  • Difficulty rating: G
  • Best season: Year round (best after recent rain)
  • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
  • More information: Trip reports here and here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

This is one of Southern California’s tallest–and most unusual looking–waterfalls.  Unfortunately, the spectacular upper tier, visible from the campground, is not easily accessible to hikers; the short walk through the woods brings you to the lower tier, which is not a bad consolation prize.  Even if there’s not much water–which there isn’t as of this writing–the limestone and sandstone cliffs, underneath the shade of oaks, is a nice spot for a picnic or to hang out and enjoy nature.

From the end of the campground, begin hiking uphill on the signed trail.  After crossing the creek, the trail continues to climb, mostly in the shade, occasionally providing a glimpse of the upper level of the falls.  The trail rises above the creek, passing over a smaller waterfall.   Soon, you arrive at the bottom level.  There are a few rocks that you can climb to get a good view of it.

Obviously, Rose Valley Falls is a very short hike to do if you’re driving a long way to get to the Los Padres National Forest, but there are quite a few other good trails in the area to check out, such as Potrero John and Piedras Blancas.  With time off for the upcoming holidays, and traffic likely to be lighter than usual, L.A. hikers might want to consider making a trip up here to check out Rose Valley Falls and some of its neighbors.

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

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

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Tachevah Falls

On the North Lykken Trail

Tachevah Falls via North Lykken Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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Crossing the creek in Dark Canyon on the Backbone Trail

Sandstone geology on the west ridge of Saddle Peak

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potrero John Trail

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Crossing the creek

Pines on the Potrero John Trail

Potrero John Trail

    • Location: Los Padres National Forest, north of Ojai. From the 101 freeway, take highway 33 north for 34 miles (21 miles north of Ojai and 6 miles north of the intersection with Rose Valley Road).  After crossing a bridge, you’ll see the sign for the Potrero John Trail.  Park at the side of the road in a a small dirt turnout.
    • Agency: Los Padres National Forest/Ojai Ranger District
    • Distance: 3.4 miles
    • Elevation gain: 500 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 2 hours
    • Best season:  October – June
    • USGS topo map: Lion Canyon
    • Recommended gear: hiking poles
    • More information: trip report here; Eveytrail report here
    • Rating: 8

This short trail in the Sespe Wilderness area of the Los Padres National Forest may be a little bit of a drive for most L.A. hikers, but it’s well worth checking out. This time of year, when snow dusts the rugged peaks above the canyon, the trail is particularly attractive.

From the small turnout, the Potrero John Trail heads down to the creek. For the next mile or so, you follow the water, crossing it several times. None of the crossings are particularly tricky, but you should always exercise caution, especially if the water level is high. There are a few fallen trees to climb around too, but overall the going is not to difficult. The scenic highlights include distant views of the higher Los Padres peaks, interesting sandstone on the canyon walls and the trickling stream.

After about a mile, the trail leaves the tight confines of the canyon and enters a field. (“Potrero”, by the way, is Spanish for meadow.) There are a few spots where the trail becomes a little ambiguous, but the main route shouldn’t be too hard to find. You make a couple of more creek crossings, and eventually you’ll see the campground across the water. The trail peters out at this point; you can either make this your turnaround point or ford the creek and sit at the Potrero John campground, under the shade of some giant oaks, before heading back.

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

Vista Del Norte Trail

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View from the Vista Del Norte Trail

Ascending the Vista Del Norte Trail

Vista Del Norte Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trailer Canyon Fire Road

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View from the Temescal Ridge Fire Road

On the Trailer Canyon Fire Road

Trailer Canyon Fire Road

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

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

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

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

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

Shortcut Saddle to West Fork Trail Camp

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San Gabriel Peak from Shortcut Canyon

In Shortcut Canyon

Shortcut Saddle to West Fork Trail Camp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Angel Vista via Los Robles Trail (Thousand Oaks)

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

Angel Vista via Los Robles Trail (Thousand Oaks)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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Fall colors on the Canyon Trail

Cholla cacti on the Mariposa Trail

Woods End Loop (Laguna Coast Wilderness Park)

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

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

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

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

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

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

East Side Loop (Griffith Park)

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Descending from Mt. Hollywood on the East Side Loop

On the Mineral Wells Trail

East Side Loop (Griffith Park)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chiquito Trail

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View from the Chiquito Trail

Oaks on the Chiquito Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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Bonita Canyon Falls

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rock Pool via Grasslands Trail (Malibu Creek State Park)

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Crossing Malibu Creek

Dusk on the Grasslands Trail, Malibu Creek State Park

Rock Pool via Grasslands Trail (Malibu Creek State Park)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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