Bobcat Loop (Schabarum Regional Park)

Bobcat Loop (Schabarum Regional Park)

• Location: Schabarum Regional Park, Rowland Heights. From the 60 Freeway, take the Azusa Ave. exit. Go south for 0.3 mile to Colima Rd. Turn left and go 0.2 mile to the park entrance, on the right. Follow the main road into the park for 0.2 mile and park where available near the junction with a service road, at the beginning of the Bobcat Trail. Parking is $6 per vehicle on weekends and holidays; free on weekdays.
• Agency: Los Angeles County Parks & Recreation
• Distance: 2.3 miles
• Elevation gain: 250 feet
• Suggested time: 1 hour
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season: September – June
• Dogs: Allowed on leash
• Cell phone reception: Good
• Water: Available in the restrooms and at fountains throughout the park
• Restrooms: Located throughout the park including several facilities on the route
• Camping: None
• More information: AllTrails report here; Schabarum Park Yelp page here
• Rating: 3

The Bobcat Loop (signed as the Wildcat Loop in some places) explores the northern, developed end of Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park. Despite being close to civilization, much of the route feels pleasantly isolated. On clear days, the views of the San Gabriels and the L.A. Basin are impressive and in the spring, wildflowers dot the hillside, making it a worthwhile excursion for those who live nearby or find themselves in the area.

The loop can be hiked in either direction and accessed from multiple spots. This write-up assumes you are starting from the parking area adjacent to the section of the trail closest to the park entrance. Cross the access road and head uphill on the trail. It parallels the park road, weaving in and out of eucalyptus groves and grassy fields as it heads south toward Powder Canyon. You drop into an oak-shaded ravine 0.7 mile from the start and make a hairpin turn, emerging at some horse stables. You join the Schabarum Trail, which heads south into Powder Canyon, giving you an option of extending the hike. To continue on the Bobcat Loop, however, bear right at the far side of the stables and look for the next leg of the trail, which crosses a bridge and heads through another eucalyptus grove.

At 1.3 miles from the start, you reach a junction. The Schabarum Trail branches off to the left, heading back up into the hills, while the Bobcat Trail heads right, passing by a parking area. You head north over rolling terrain, soon taking in some panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley. Mt. Baldy and the Ontario/Cucamonga Ride are prominent and soon Mt. Wilson comes into view as well. Several unofficial trails branch off, but the main route remains obvious. At a Y-junction (2.1 miles, bear right and follow the trail to a picnic area. A narrow path on the opposite side of the picnic area leads you back to the parking area.

Photo gallery (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

 

 

 

 

 

Text and photography copyright 2017 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.