Tag Archives: family

Fry Creek Loop Trail

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Pines on the Fry Creek Trail

Oaks on the Fry Creek Trail

Fry Creek Loop Trail

  • Location: Cleveland National Forest near Pala.  From Interstate 15 south of Temecula, take highway 76 west for 21 miles.  Turn left on county road S-6 (South Grade Road), and head north for 7 miles.  Stay on S-6 at the junction with S-7.  Continue 2.6 miles (just past the Observatory campground) and look for the signed Fry Creek Campground on the left.  Park on the side of the road, by the gate.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Cleveland National Forest/Palomar Mountain Ranger Distridct
  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Elevation gain: 450 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time: 1 hour
  • Best season: Year round
  • USGS topo map: Palomar Observatory
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; insect repellent
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 6

This short loop, almost exactly across the street from the Palomar Mountain Observatory trailhead, takes in some of the area’s attractive high country.  Despite its brevity, the hike presents a few challenges: some people might feel the effects of the thin air; also the trail has some sharp drop-offs, which can be treacherous in the winter if there is snow or ice.

From the road, walk into the campground to the bulletin board at the entrance, and head right on the signed trail. You switchback uphill, through a mix of oaks and pines that is typical for the area. Less than a quarter mile in, you’ll cross a creek which may or may not have water. The trail levels out, crossing a second creek and arriving at a road in 0.8 miles.

On the opposite side of the road, continue uphill, quickly veering to the left. A few minutes of walking over some rocks brings you to a wide, open space where several trees have been cut down. The trail begins to swing around toward the east, heading back to complete the loop. It hugs the north side of a ridge, passing through a thick grove of pines that may remind hikers of the San Jacintos near Idyllwild or perhaps the slopes of Mt. Wilson.

At 1.8 miles, the trail makes a hairpin turn to the left and descends, arriving back at the paved road. Turn right and complete the loop. The Fry Creek Loop trail makes a nice side-trip if you’ve come to visit the Palomar Mountain Observatory Trail or the state park nearby.

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

Piedra Blanca

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The sandstone formations of Piedra Blanca

Crossing Sespe Creek in the Los Padres National Forest

Piedra Blanca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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Crossing the creek in Dark Canyon on the Backbone Trail

Sandstone geology on the west ridge of Saddle Peak

Backbone Trail: Piuma Road to Stunt Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potrero John Trail

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Crossing the creek

Pines on the Potrero John Trail

Potrero John Trail

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

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

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

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

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

San Clemente Beach & Pier

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

Geology on the beach at San Clemente

San Clemente Beach & Pier

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vista Del Norte Trail

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View from the Vista Del Norte Trail

Ascending the Vista Del Norte Trail

Vista Del Norte Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Harriet Wieder Park

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Wetlands in Harriet Wieder Park

Harriet Wieder Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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Bonita Canyon Falls

Bonita Canyon Falls (San Gabriels)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Sandberg/Golden Eagle Loop

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Dusk on the Sandberg Trail

Meadow on the Sandberg Trail

Sandberg/Golden Eagle Loop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smith Mountain (Angeles National Forest)

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Looking north from the summit of Smith Mountain

On the approach to Smith Saddle

Smith Mountain

  • Location:  Angeles National Forest.  From I-210 in Azusa, take the Azusa Ave. exit (highway 39) and head north for a total of 18 miles.  (At 1.8 miles north of the freeway, the road bears left and becomes San Gabriel Canyon Road.)  The trail head is a quarter mile south of the Coldbrook Campground, and 5.5 miles past the turnoff for East Fork Road.  Park in the lot on the left side of the road at mile marker 32.2.  A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here. Click here to purchase.
  • Agency: Angeles National Forest/San Gabriel River Ranger District
  • Distance: 7 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,900 feet
  • Suggested time: 4.5 hours
  • Difficulty rating: PG-13 (Steepness, terrain, elevation gain, distance)
  • Best season: October – June (depending on conditions)
  • USGS topo map: Crystal Lake
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles; sun hat
  • More information: here; Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 9

This 5,111-foot summit may not have the most inspiring name, but the views from the top, and along the way, are exceptional. While it’s not as well known as some of the other peaks in the Angeles National Forest, Smith Mountain is a must-do for any serious L.A. hiker. Just know that the last half mile is quite a challenge, even for veterans.

From Highway 39, ascend the trail signed for the San Gabriel Wilderness. Off to the southwest, Smith’s pointy summit lurks. As you ascend toward the saddle, taking in nice views of the San Gabriel Canyon and the higher summits to the east, you may notice the steep route up the side of the mountain.  The trail is almost entirely exposed, although you do cross a couple of creeks and have some brief moments of shade.

After three enjoyable miles, you arrive at Smith Saddle (elevation 4,290). Here, the trail descends past the San Gabriel Wilderness boundary. This is a good turnaround point for those who are doubtful about making the summit–which will, from here, require over 800 feet of elevation gain in a half mile. Those who want to continue will be well served to rest and charge their batteries here–with views that include Baldy to the east, and Mt. Wilson and other front-country summits to the west.

When ready, ascend the steep fire break, heading south. The climbing becomes steeper, and undoubtedly you will be using your hands as much as your feet as you make your way through the rocks. The route is never too hard to follow, and as steep as it is, there are plenty of hand-holds. About half way between the saddle and the summit, you can take a break at a large flat rock and enjoy a panoramic view.

Continuing along the ridge, you arrive at a false summit, and afterward, your going gets slightly easier. A short flat stretch leads to one last push to the real summit, where you get great views of the L.A. basin, the Santa Anas, the Puente Hills and the higher San Gabriel summits to the north. While the view doesn’t quite have the 360-degree effect of a Mt. Baldy or a Baden-Powell, it’s still quite dramatic, well worth the effort.

Of course, your work is not done yet. The descent requires extreme caution (the hiking poles will be helpful, but you will probably be using your hands as well–and perhaps what I like to refer to as the “fifth limb.”) Be careful of the small tree roots poking out from the rocks. Fortunately, once you make it back to the saddle, the three miles back to the car are easy pickings. Most hikers who make the trip to this relatively lightly visited mountain will agree that it’s worth the effort.

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

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

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Hillside on the Park Avenue Nature Trail

Ocean view from the Park Avenue Nature Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lookout Loop (Malibu Creek State Park)

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Century Lake, Malibu Creek State Park

Goat Buttes in Malibu Creek State Park (click picture to purchase from the N.H.L.A. Gallery)

Lookout Loop (Malibu Creek State Park)

  • Location: Malibu, near Cornell.  From highway 101, take the Kanan Road exit and head south for 0.5 miles.  Bear left onto Cornell Way.  Go 2.3 miles, and just past Mulholland Highway, turn left into the parking area.  (The road is called Lake Vista on this side of Mulholland).  From Pacific Coast Highway, take Malibu Canyon north for a total of 6.3 miles (it becomes Las Virgenes on the way) and turn left on Mulholland.  Go 3.2 miles and turn left on Lake Vista.  Take the first left into the parking lot.
  • Agency:  Malibu Creek State Park
  • Distance: 3.8 miles
  • Elevation gain:  500 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG
  • Suggested time:  2 hours
  • Best season: October – June
  • USGS topo maps: Malibu Beach
  • Recommended gear: hiking poles
  • Recommended guidebook: Afoot & Afield Los Angeles
  • More information: here (similar route); Everytrail report here
  • Rating: 7

This scenic loop explores some of Malibu Creek State Park’s back country, starting with the area known as the Reagan Ranch. From the dirt lot, head east into the park on a fire road. After passing some ranch buildings, you arrive at the Yearling Trail, a single-track. As you make your way along, you get nice views of the hills to the north.

In 0.4 miles, bear right at a split, onto the Deer Leg trail. This brings you through a pleasant oak woodland (you can stop for a picnic at a table here). You make a few switchbacks, keeping right at the junction, and then you arrive at a crest, where you get great views of the Goat Buttes before making a steep descent on the Cage Creek trail.

Head right, following the trail (it can be tricky at this point, as it tends to be overgrown, so look for footprints). The Cage Creek trail makes a steep descent – 250 feet in less than a quarter mile, so be careful. (This is where your poles will serve you well.)

At the bottom, you arrive at Crags Road, Malibu Creek State Park’s main drag. Head left on this fire road, and take a detour to see beautiful Century Lake, where you can have a second picnic at a conveniently provided table.

Back at Crags, bear left on the Lookout Trail and begin your ascent. You get nice aerial views of Century Lake and the western end of the park, plus other nearby summits such as Sugarloaf and Ladyface.  The ascent is steep, but fairly short, and soon you arrive at a junction.  The Cistern Trail branches off to the right, reaching Mulholland Highway, but your route continues straight, through another pleasant woodland.  The Lookout Trail continues through a field, soon rejoining the Yearling Trail. From here, you retrace your steps back to the ranch buildings and your car. Reagan Ranch was in fact named after the former president, who owned the property before he became California’s governor.

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 Live Oak Trail/O’Neill Regional Park

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Descending on the Live Oak Trail

Deer on the Live Oak Trail

West Live Oak Trail/O’Neill Regional Park

    • Location: Trabuco Canyon in the Orange County foothills.  From the south, take I-5 to Oso Parkway.  Take a right and go 0.7 miles to Marguerite Parkway.  Turn left and go 5.6 miles to El Toro Road.  Turn right and go 1.5 miles to Valley Vista.  Turn right and take another quick right on Meadow Ridge.  Go 0.4 miles to the end of Meadow Ridge, turn left on Chisholm and park at the end of the street.  From the north, take either I-5 or I-405 south to Bake Parkway.  Turn left and go 5.4 miles to Portola Parkway.  Turn right and go 0.7 miles to Glenn Ranch.  Turn left and go 1.6 miles to El Toro Road.  Turn left and go 0.4 miles to Valley Vista.
    • Agency: O’Neill Regional Park
    • Distance: 2.8  miles
    • Elevation gain: 600 feet
    • Difficulty Rating: PG
    • Suggested time: 1.5 hours
    • Best season: October – June
    • USGS topo map:  ”Santiago Peak”
    • Recommended gear: sun hatwidth=
    • More information: here; Everytrail report here
    • Rating: 6

This short but vigorous hike approaches O’Neill Regional Park’s famous ocean vista point from a residential area off of El Toro Road, via the western end of the Live Oak Trail. On this part of the trail, the name Live Oak is somewhat of a misnomer, as most of the trail is exposed. Nevertheless, there’s some nice scenery here, and this end of the Live Oak trail tends to get less foot traffic than the more common approach from the park’s main entrance.

From the end of Chisholm, follow a dirt path down to the Live Oak trail and head left. You pass by a picnic area and make a short but steep climb, and then a descent to a footbridge. Across the bridge, the climbing continues. You get a glimpse of the Saddleback summits over the ridge, as well as the grounds of the Ramakrishna Monastery.

At 0.9 miles, the trail takes a hard right and begins to ascend toward the vista point. Bear left at the next split, and a make a final push to the 1,492 foot summit. From here, clear-day views include the ocean, the San Joaquin Hills and more; even if it’s cloudy, it’s hard to miss the imposing Saddleback to the north.

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.

Sullivan Canyon Loop

Posted on by dlockeretz

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Oaks and sycamores in Sullivan Canyon

West Mandeville Fire Road

  • Location: Brentwood, on the corner of Bayliss and Queensferry.  From I-405, take the Sunset Blvd. exit west for 2.4 miles.  Turn right on Mandeville Canyon Road and make a quick left on Westridge.  Go 1.2 miles (the road is curvy and narrow, so be careful) and turn left on Bayliss.  Park on the corner of Bayliss and Queensferry (there are “no parking” signs but they do not appear to be enforced; on a recent visit there no tickets were seen on windshields.  If you are concerned about getting a ticket you can drive to the end of Westridge and park in a small lot.)
  • Agency: Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
  • Distance: 10 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,600 feet
  • Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Distance, elevation gain)
  • Suggested time: 4.5 hours
  • Best season: October – May
  • Recommended gear: sun hat; insect repellentwidth= ; sunblock
  • USGS topo maps: “Canoga Park”; “Topanga”
  • More information:  Trip reports here and here (shorter routes); Everytrail report here; map of the Westridge Canyonback portion of the hike here
  • Rating: 7
Sullivan Canyon Loop

It may seem hard to believe that only a few miles from UCLA, the Getty Museum and Sunset Boulevard, one can take a 10-mile hike, much of which escapes the sights and sounds of civilization, but the Sullivan Canyon Loop provides just such an experience. This long loop is one of the more challenging trips in the eastern Santa Monicas. The whole loop is quite an undertaking, but if you’re short for time, going just a little ways in the canyon is an enjoyable little excursion.

From Queensferry, head downhill past the gate and into the canyon. For three and a half miles, you make your way up a gentle grade, under the cover of sycamores and oaks. The walls of the canyon block out virtually all of the noise from the city nearby. From time to time, you may get glimpses of the hills above the canyon between the trees. Some veteran hikers may find this three-mile-plus stretch a little monotonous toward the end, but soon, the grade gets a little steeper as the road climbs out of the canyon. At the junction, take a hairpin turn to the left and continue your climb, with nice views of the canyon to the south.

In less than a mile, you arrive at the Sullivan Fire Road. Head right and follow the backbone, with nice views of the Santa Monica Mountains on the left. This brings you to the dirt section of Mulholland. Head right, enjoying views that on clear days include the San Fernando Valley and San Gabriel Mountains, and in 0.7 miles, you arrive at San Vicente Mountain Park. This is the former missile site (you can still see some of the old buildings and walk up the watchtower) that is now a popular hiking destination. Head right and into the park; some picnic tables under a shelter make a nice place for a stop.

From the park, head south on the West Mandeville Fire Road. Stay right as another road branches off to the left. You’re in an area known as the Big Wild, and as Westridge Canyonback Wilderness Park. There are a few short uphill stretches, but for the most part your work is done. You get nice views of Sullivan Canyon to the right and Mandeville Canyon to the left. On clear days, you can see the ocean.

After 3.5 fairly easy miles, the fire road ends in a residential area at Westridge Road. Follow Westridge half a mile to Bayliss. Turn right and head downhill another half mile 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.