The Oregon Coast is rugged, beautiful and often uncrowded. This bluff-top out-and-back hike starts and ends in Sunset Bay State Park and follows a section of the Oregon Coast Trail south to the Simpson Reef Overlook. Along the way there are opportunities for short side trips down to hidden coves and beaches, as well as the manicured gardens at Shore Acres State Park. It is a great taste of the Oregon coast, with a side helping of history.

Trail Details

Distance: 8.75 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 786 ft
Dogs: Yes, on leash
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

We were car camping at Sunset Bay State Park, and started our hike right from the campground. If you’re driving to the trailhead, you can park in the lot near the grassy area at the south end of the beach. The trailhead is about 13 miles from Coos Bay and takes about 25 minutes to drive.

From Coos Bay, head north on 101, then turn left on Newmark St (OR 540). As you approach the waterfront, Newmark turns left on Empire (still OR 540). You’ll stay on this (it becomes the Cape Arrago Highway) for almost eight miles, traveling through Barview, across the bridge and through Charleston and eventually reaching Sunset Bay State Park. Get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps.

Hiking from Sunset Bay to Simpson Reef Overlook

This trail generally follows along the coast along the bluff, sometimes ducking into the forest. Look for the trailhead at the south end of the park. It starts by climbing up the bluff. As with much of the Oregon Coast, it can be frequently wet and slick depending on the weather. It’s definitely lush and green. We spied blackberries, deer fern and wintergreen along the trail.

Just before the two mile mark, we reached a spur trail that headed down to a cove. At low tide, it was a great area for exploring. The fog cloaked the beach in mystery.

Climbing back to the main trail, we continue south. Another 1/2 mile and we veered right at the trail junction, heading to the bluff-top trail through Shore Acres State Park.

Shore Acres State Park was at one time the estate of a timber magnate, and some of the original buildings and the arboretum are still maintained. Dogs are not allowed in the park, except when passing through on the Oregon Coast Trail on leash. The extensive botanical gardens are not covered in this guide, but are definitely worth a visit while you are in the area.

Once you’ve passed the walled gardens, you soon reach the lovely Simpson Beach. While most of the coast is rocky with tide pools, this sandy beach is relatively well-protected and surprisingly quiet. We were the only ones there, probably because it’s a hike to get here.

Continuing south on the trail, you wander the coastal bluff until finally converging with the road at Simpson Reef Overlook. It’s very likely you’ll see other people who drove to this point to walk around and look.

The reef itself extends into the Pacific Ocean quite far, and is teeming with seals, sea lions and other wildlife. Binoculars or a telephoto lens would be helpful here, though you can hear their barking from a distance.

This was our turnaround point. After reading about the reef and ogling the wildlife, we turned around and started back on the trail. There are some options in the network of trails along the coast, and we opted to stick closer to the road for a more direct route back to the trailhead and eventually camp.

The trail back was still beautiful, and we encountered artifacts from the days when Shore Acres was an estate — like the gate posts to one of the old entrances.

John Muir was said to despise the word “hiking” as it sounded all too serious and driven. He much preferred the term “sauntering.” Though we logged nearly nine miles on this trail, it was more of a saunter than a hike, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace with plenty of exploration and just enjoying the scenery of this beautiful coast.

Simpson Reef Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Additional Resources

• Sunset Bay State Park – official website
• Shore Acres State Park – official website
• No water is available on the trail. Be prepared to carry what you need.
• Bring shoes that will give you some traction in slick wet sections of the trail, and a rain jacket just-in-case.
• The trail is not always well signed, but the area is well defined. With the coast on one side and the road on the other.
• We did not have cell service for most of the hike.

Originally hiked July 29, 2021 with Joan and our two labradoodles, Lucy and Farley.

The Dipsea-Steep Ravine Loop is a moderately easy 4.6-mile hike that makes a perfect introduction to Mount Tamalpais State Park, especially when water is flowing in Webb Creek. It offers shady forest, historical points of interest, an actual water fountain on the trail, fern-lined trails through towering redwoods, playful cascades and pools in a cool, deep canyon, and panoramic coastal views. I had hiked up the Steep Ravine Trail when I tackled Mount Tamalpais from Stinson Beach, and I’d been down the Dipsea Trail from Bayview in Mill Valley, but combining the two in this loop makes it a perfect intro to the area for someone who doesn’t have the time or energy for those longer hikes.

Trail Details

Distance: 4.6 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,093 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

The Pantoll Campground parking area is at 3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941 in Mt Tamalpais State Park. The parking area is shared by campers, day hikers, and folks overnighting at the West Point Inn, and there are numerous trails emanating from this central location. There is an $8 per car day use fee, payable through self-registration envelopes at the Pantoll visitor center.

There are restrooms and water available. The trailhead begins and ends at the south end of the parking area.

Being a loop trail, you could hike this in either direction, but I recommend the clockwise direction described below.

Hiking the Dipsea–Steep Ravine Loop

From the south end of the Pantoll parking lot, head down the Deer Park Fire Road for a short 100 feet, then turn right onto the Old Mine Trail.

The Old Mine Trail winds around the hillside under a shady canopy of trees. Along the way, the trail passes a marker for the namesake mine. The Denos Claim never delivered riches, and was sealed years ago. It’s an interesting bit of history though.

As you break through the trees, you rejoin the fire road. Just off the trail to your right is Veteran’s Bench. You haven’t hiked far enough yet to warrant a rest, but take a few moments to stop here anyway and soak in the views.

Continue down the fire road to the junction with the Dipsea Trail at the top of Cardiac Hill. There is a working water fountain here, mainly for hikers on the Dipsea Trail who have hiked (or run) up from the bottom of Muir Woods. Take the junction with the Dipsea Trail to the right where it cuts down across the hillside beneath the Veteran’s Bench, heading towards the Lone Tree Spring.

The Lone Tree Spring is just off the main trail. As you near the bend around the hill, watch for a series of stone steps on your right heading into the woods. This short detour takes you about 10 yards off the main trail, but you will discover the Lone Tree Spring, erected in 1917, and across from it, the (no longer) Lone Tree–a towering redwood that once stood alone on this hill.

The spring is still running, with a stone trough collecting the water. It looked a little murky, so I wouldn’t drink it without treating the water first, but it’s pretty need to see something that’s been there serving hikers like you for over a century.

Take a moment to reflect on the many people who have visited this place and hiked this beautiful trail over the past 100 years or more. The clothing, shoes and gear has changed, but the sense of awe remains. Step back out to the main trail and continue heading down toward Steep Ravine.

You soon enter a grove of young redwoods towering towards the sky like columns in an old cathedral. The trail quietly switchbacks down into the canyon.

As you get closer to Webb Creek, the foliage grows thick and lush. You encounter rough hewn steps and the occasional stray rebar sticking out of the trail where a wooden step has weathered away.

Finally you can hear the water from Webb Creek splashing down Steep Ravine and catch a glimpse of the bridge at the bottom of the canyon. The other side of the bridge marks the junction of the Dipsea Trail (which continues on to Stinson Beach) and the Steep Ravine Trail (the uphill portion of our loop).

Whenever I’m hiking with a group, we may spread out as we find our own pace, but we always make a point to regroup at junctions, and this bridge is the perfect spot.

From there, head upstream on the Steep Ravine Trail along seasonal Webb Creek. This section of the trail is especially beautiful when the water is flowing as it was when we hiked up. The trail crosses the creek several times on sturdy wooden bridges, and winds between redwoods and up the canyon on steep stone or wood steps.

After hiking 0.8 miles up the canyon from the junction, the trail climbs a ladder over large boulders before continuing on toward Pantoll. Just another of the ways this trail delights.

Finally, the trail leaves Webb Creek and heads up the side of the ravine following a series of shade-covered switchbacks. It’s the last push back to Pantoll Camp and the end of the loop.

Old Mine > Dipsea > Steep Ravine Loop Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Dipsea-Steep Ravine Loop Tips & Resources

After hiking, head down to Stinson Beach for lunch. We hit the Siren Canteen. It’s right on the beach and has great Mexican food, wine and beer. The view’s not bad, either.

Stinson Beach Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on May 11, 2018 with Joan. 

Alamere Falls is one of those rare and special places where a beautiful waterfall cascades directly onto the beach. This 14 mile hike is the easiest route to the falls, and makes a perfect long day hike. The Coast Trail from the Palomarin Trailhead near Bolinas offers pine forests, lakeside views, sweeping coastal panoramas, rushing creeks and ultimately, a safe route to Wildcat Beach and Alamere Falls.

Trail Details

Distance: 14.2 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,442 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Palomarin Trailhead

From the small coastal town of Bolinas, follow Mesa Road north and drive all the way to the end, where you’ll find the parking lot for the Palomarin Trailhead. The last 1.2 miles to the trailhead is a rough, gravel road. A high clearance vehicle is ideal, but a sedan can make the trip with care and patience. At the trailhead, there are four pit toilets and an information board with rules and warnings. This is a popular trailhead on weekends. Best to arrive early to avoid a long “hike” to the trailhead. Get turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead via Google Maps.

Hiking the Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp and Alamere Falls

The trail begins at the northeast side of the parking lot. There’s only one trail from here, so it’s not difficult to find. You start through an old grove of towering eucalyptus trees with the sound of the surf crashing on the rocks below the bluff. At 0.2 miles, you reach a junction with the Palomarin Beach Trail. Bear right to stay on the Coast Trail toward Wildcat Camp.

The first 1.5 miles parallels the bluff, with some sweeping views of the coastline. After this, the trail veers inland, skirting some algae-covered ponds and reaching the north shore of Bass Lake at the 3.0 mile mark – the first of four named lakes you’ll pass on this hike.

The vegetation is thick and green in the spring. The trail itself is in good condition, though it can get slick in the rain. There are three wooden foot bridges along the route crossing seasonal creeks.

At times, the coastal pines create a lush, dark tunnel over the trail.

At 4.7 miles, you reach a junction with the Ocean Lake Loop trail. Both trails reconnect just beyond Wildcat Lake, so we went right to stay on the slightly shorter Coast Trail going to Wildcat Camp, and would take the Ocean Lake Loop on our way back.

The trail narrows and the wet grasses and thistles made me thankful I kept the legs on my convertible hiking pants. Keep your eyes out for banana slugs and salamanders.

At 6.0 miles we reached Wildcat Camp. There are a number of backpacking campsites here, with picnic tables and secure food storage. There is also a pit toilet a short distance away.

From Wildcat Camp, the trail descends a gully to Wildcat Beach. We were able to cross the creek using old wood boards strewn on the sand.

Once on the beach, head south. In the distance, you can make out Alamere Falls just over a mile away.

Note that at high tide, the water can come up to the bluff and the beach can become impassable. Check the tide schedule before planning your hike, and make sure you have enough time to get to the falls and back before the tide comes in.

Alamere Falls cascade 30 feet from the bluff, falling onto rocks and spilling down the sandy beach right into the surf. It’s spectacular.

We took plenty of photos, fueled up with food and water, and headed back north on the beach, eventually reaching Wildcat Camp and heading back on the Coast Trail. When we reached the junction with the Ocean Lake Loop, this time we took it. The view was amazing. You can see Ocean Lake on the bluff, and Alamere Falls in the distance.

This out-and-back route to Alamere Falls is especially beautiful in the spring as the wildflowers come alive. We saw mariposa, lilys, poppies and lupine along the trail.

When you reach the bluff top and see the eucalyptus grove ahead, you’re nearly back to the trailhead.

This hike is beautiful, and while not technically challenging, it is long. We had periods of rain, cold wind, sun, and warmth. Bring plenty of food and water, and layers for the varied weather conditions.

Palomarin Trailhead to Alamere Falls Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Alamere Falls Tips and Resources

• Know the tide schedule beforehand. At high tide, the water can trap you against the bluff. Best to go when the tide is out and allow plenty of time for the beach hike to the falls and back.
• There was no AT&T cell coverage on most of this trail, and spotty coverage at the trailhead. Don’t count on being able to place a call or send messages on this trail.
• Devices such as radios, boomboxes, and portable speakers are prohibited. Enjoy the sounds of the birds, the wind through the trees, and the waves crashing on the beach.
• Print and carry this Alamere Falls trail map (PDF). The route described above is shown in purple on the map.
• There is no water available at the trailhead or on this trail. Bring and carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
• Bring the ten essentials, and follow the seven Leave No Trace principles.
• Visit the official Point Reyes National Seashore website for the latest information on Alamere Falls.

Finally, heed this warning from the National Park Service

Please take note! Many social media posts, websites, and older (and some newer) guide books reference an “Alamere Falls Trail.” The “Alamere Falls Trail” is NOT a maintained trail, and poses many hazards to off-trail hikers—crumbling and eroding cliffs, massive poison oak, ticks, and no cell phone service. Visitors who use this unmaintained trail may endanger themselves and rescuers, and inadvertently cause resource damage. On an almost weekly basis, visitors get hurt scrambling down the heavily rutted route leading to the top of the falls or sliding down the crumbly cliff-face to get to the beach, sometimes requiring search and rescue teams to be mobilized. The National Park Service strongly advises visitors against using this unmaintained route.

Point Reyes National Seashore Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on April 12, 2018 with Kaete, Dan, Donna and Pat.

Mount Tamalpais stands guard over the bay, with views stretching from the Farallon Islands to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains. And while you can drive almost to the top, it’s nothing to brag about. Hiking to the top is better. Better still? Hiking to the summit, starting from Stinson Beach.

Trail Details

Summit: 2,571′ (784 m)
Distance: 15 miles
Time: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: +/-2,771′ ft (844.6 m)
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

Getting here can be an adventure in itself. Stinson Beach is on the Pacific Coast side of Marin County, west of Mill Valley. When I hiked this, I left early to start hiking at sunrise. The normal route would be west on the Shoreline Highway, but there was a detour when I went, so instead I drove over the extremely windy Panoramic Highway. The benefit of this is that the parking area is right on Panoramic Highway, just before it connects with Shoreline. Here’s the exact location on Google Maps. I chose this parking area mainly because the beach parking lot wasn’t open yet, but because it’s on the east side of Shoreline, you aren’t vying for parking with beachgoers as well.

Hiking from Stinson Beach to Mount Tam

Start out by crossing to the south side of the Panoramic Highway and pick up the Dipsea Trail.

The trail begins climbing quickly across the grassy coastal headlands, providing sweeping views of the coastline, which looked especially sweet in the early morning light.

At 1.1 miles, you reach the Steep Ravine Trail. This trail climbs alongside Webb Creek, threading among towering redwood trees, criss-crossing moss-covered wooden footbridges, and climbing carefully hewn stone steps. About 1/10th of a mile up the Steep Ravine Trail, the Dipsea Trail peels off to the right. Keep to the left at this junction, and continue to follow the creek. This is one of the most beautiful sections of this hike, and worth a trip in itself.

Note that there is a ladder you’ll have to climb. It was damp and slick this particular morning, but that’s not unusual back in this ravine. Take your time and use care going up. And don’t forget to pause beforehand to soak in the view of the cascading water.

At the 3.4 mile mark, you see signs of Pantoll Campground through the trees. There are public restrooms here as well as a parking area.

At the Pantoll Campground, you’ll cross the parking lot up to the driveway entrance, then (watching for cars) cross the Panoramic Highway. Look for the signs for the Old Stage Road, heading toward the West Point Inn.

The Old Stage Road begins as paved for a short distance, quickly becoming a dirt road. My early morning start meant I had the trail to myself on my way up, though I met a number of hikers and mountain bikers climbing the road on my return trip.

Two miles up this gentle grade brings you to the historic West Point Inn. This inn has been around for over 100 years, and has both rooms and cabins for rent. To reach the Inn, you’ll have to either hike or bike, which is part of the charm. Time your trip right and you can hike here for one of their famous pancake breakfasts!

Follow the dirt road left around the front of the West Point Inn and around to the back where it continues the gradual climb up to Mount Tam. You’ll reach a gate and the road to the East Peak parking area. Bear right at the fork and follow to the Plank Walk Trail. This takes you the remainder of the way to the fire lookout tower on the summit of Mount Tamalpais.

The summit makes a good spot for a snack or lunch break. On the weekends, you can stop at the Visitors Center in the East Peak parking area and purchase snacks or souvenirs with all the non-hikers. I was grateful to be here on a quiet weekday. Everything was closed and only a few other hikers here and there.

Heading back down to Stinson, follow the Old Stage Road again back to Pantoll Campground. From here, look for the signs for the Matt Davis Trail.

This trail is a little longer than the Steep Ravine Trail, but less slippery in wet conditions. I passed countless rivulets, even five days after the last rainfall, and the scenery varied from dark, lush forest to open, grassy hills with views out to the Pacific Ocean.

Finally, the trail ends near the Stinson Beach fire station. From here, walk west and south to reach Shoreline, then south on Shoreline until you reach the Dipsea Trailhead. From here, just another 1/4 mile or so of trail takes you back to the parking area where you began the hike.

After the hike, stop at the beach to dip your toes in the water. You’ve earned it!

Stinson Beach to Mount Tamalpais Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Stinson Beach/Mount Tamalpais Resources

• Mt. Tamalpais State Park is open 7am to sundown daily
• Visitor Center
• Friends of Mt. Tam – great resource with a calendar of scheduled events including guided hikes in the park
• History of the Gravity Cars
• West Point Inn – Info on the history, accommodation, membership and their periodic pancake breakfasts!
• This hike is part of the NorCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. Take the challenge!

Mount Tamalpais Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on January 23, 2018.

At 2,517 feet, Mission Peak towers over the southern arm of the San Franciso Bay. It offers a 360-degree panorama that extends from San Jose to Mount Tamalpais. On a clear day, you can even see the Sierra Nevada range to the east.

Trail Details

Summit: 2,517′
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain/loss: +1,992’/-1,992′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

“Perhaps the denizens of this valley are so accustomed to the sight of Mission Peak that they fail to appreciate the dignity and individuality which it gives to the landscape. Whether the outlines, snow-capped may be, are sharp and distinct on a clear, frosty morning in winter, or overspread with the purple afterglow of a summer sunset; whether rising grim and rugged agains black storm clouds, or emerging into the sunlight from unwinding fog wreaths, the mountain has a majesty of its own.”

Clearly the denizens have long since discovered Mission Peak, as anyone who has been to the Stanford Avenue trailhead can attest. Today, Mission Peak is a popular hiking destination appreciated by hundreds (thousands?) each day.

This guide describes the out-and-back route that climbs 3.1 miles to the summit and descends 3.1 miles back to the trailhead at the end of Stanford Avenue in Fremont.

Getting to the Trailhead

There is a small parking lot with 40 stalls at 680 Stanford Avenue, Fremont, California. The lot is at the very eastern terminus of Stanford Avenue, so you can’t miss it. You’ll pass by the remaining building from the long-gone Leland Stanford Winery on your left. Overflow parking is available on Vineyard Avenue (about 150 spots). Read the street signs and parking rules carefully to avoid a ticket, and keep the noise down; you’re in a residential neighborhood. Get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps.

Note that the posted trailhead hours (6:30 am to 9:00 pm) agrees with the hours posted on the ebparks.org website, but conflicted with the schedule on the East Bay Regional Parks District map for Mission Peak. What is clear is that they mean business. There were several signs warning that “Hikers in the park and vehicles in the staging area when the park is closed will be cited. Citations cost a minimum of $300.” If in doubt, choose the most conservative times, and note that the closing hour changes depending on the time of year.

Hiking the Trail to Mission Peak

The hike begins through a swinging gate on the Hidden Valley Trail. You are hiking through an area where cows graze. Be sure to give them plenty of room. Don’t attempt to touch or agitate them.

The trail itself is a broad, gravel and dirt fire road. There are six benches along the route to the peak, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy the view along the way.

Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go. We spied a rafter of wild turkeys on our way up.

The Hidden Valley Trail is a small part of the Ohlone Wilderness Regional Trail – a 28-mile route that is popular for backpackers.

At about 2.6 miles, you’ll reach a junction with the trail that heads to Ohlone College. Easily within view and  short detour is a pit toilet and a bit beyond that, the hang glider launch area. It’s a worthwhile detour on your way back down if the winds are favorable for hang gliding.

Bear right around the ridge to the final approach to Mission Peak–a steep gravel incline.

The broad fire road finally ends about 0.25 miles from the summit. From here, there is a short, rocky section that requires careful foot placement and a single track trail to the summit.

The views from the summit? Amazing. You can see for miles in every direction.

There is a monument with siting tubes on the summit that is a popular place to pose for a summit selfie. The siting tubes are pointed at other landmarks you can see from Mission Peak.

Few people know that buried within the siting tube are a bottle of Zinfandel wine and five time capsules intended to be opened 100 years after they were placed.

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See how many landmarks you can identify. Wait in line for your selfie at the monument. When you’ve had your fill of epic views, retrace your steps, heading back down the same route you ascended.

Stanford Avenue Staging Area to Mission Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mission Peak Tips

• Top tip: Don’t hike this route! Instead, park at Ohlone College at 43600 Mission Blvd. There is a nominal day-use parking fee (currently $4) but there is ample parking, more shade and fewer crowds. The is a little longer, being just shy of 8 miles round-trip. Plus, this route remains open until 10pm year-round, making it perfect for a sunset hike. Here’s the better route on GaiaGPS.
• Go early and if possible, avoid weekends and holidays. It’s much easier to enjoy this trail when the crowds are lighter.
• Carry at least a liter of water, more if it’s hot. Better yet, save this hike for a day when it’s not hot. This route is almost entirely exposed. Don’t forget water for your dog, too.
• Bring sunscreen and sun protection (i.e. a wide-brimmed hat). Even if it’s hazy or overcast, the UV rays can burn you.
• Wear shoes with good traction.  The trail is steep and the gravel can make it slippery in sections. I wore trail runners; my wife wore hiking boots, and we were grateful for the traction.

More Mission Peak Resources

• Mission Peak Regional Preserve Trail Map (PDF) – Always carry a map in addition to whatever technology you use.
• Mission Peak: Silicon Valley’s “Big Hike for Beginners” – AlphaRoaming.com
• Why has Mission Peak Become the Thing to Do? – BayNature.org
  An thoughtful look at the popularity of Mission Peak, balancing environmental protection and safety.
• Official Mission Peak Regional Preserve website – Get the latest on parking, hours, rules and regulations.

Mission Peak Weather Forecast

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Marin County is truly unique. Nestled on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, these hills gave birth to mountain biking and were home to George Lucas’ magic-makers – all just a short drive from San Francisco over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Muir Woods and Mt Tamalpais get much of the spotlight, but there is a remarkable network of trails throughout this range, including this local favorite – the Coyote Ridge Loop in Tennessee Valley.

Trail Details

Distance: 5.2 miles
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 911 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

You can take the Golden Gate transit bus from San Francisco to Tennessee Valley Road, but you’ll have to walk 1.7 miles down the road to get to the trailhead.

If you’re driving from San Francisco, you’ll cross the Golden Gate Bridge on Highway 101, exiting to Highway 1 at the Mill Valley/Stinson Beach exit. Turn left onto Tennessee Valley Road and follow it to the end. Get detailed directions on Google Maps.

At the trailhead there is a decent amount of parking and two pit toilets. At the time of writing, the parking area had several sections with large potholes, so drive with caution.

Hiking the Coyote Ridge Loop

This route begins at the northeast end of the trailhead parking.

The careful observer will note that the sign indicates that bikes, horses and dogs on leash are allowed on this trail. Unfortunately for dog hikers, the second half of the loop does not allow dogs. As an option, you could hike the first half as an out-and-back.

The trail quickly climbs up the ridge. You’ll gain over 500 feet in the first mile, after which you get a short breather before resuming a more gradual incline. Take a moment to soak in the views and you’ll see the San Francisco Bay begin to emerge to the east.

There are trail junctions around the 1.0 mile mark; all well-signed. Follow the signs for the Coyote Ridge Trail.

Just past the 2 mile mark you’ll see a short (10m) spur trail leading to the obvious high point on the loop: Coyote Ridge Overlook. There are a couple of benchmarks and wonderful 360-degree views.

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Coyote Ridge Loop Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Back on the main trail, head south down Coyote Ridge. At 2.8 miles you reach a junction with a choice: take the shorter trail to the east and head straight back to Tennessee Valley or bear right and continue south to get even better ocean views. That’s right — go for the view.

When you reach the trail at the valley floor, you have the option of extending the hike with a 1.2 mile out-and-back (0.6 miles each way) to the beach. Throw a rock in the Pacific, then follow the valley trail back to the trailhead parking.

An interesting historical note: The valley is named for a steamer named the SS Tennessee which wrecked just off the coast in 1853. You can still see rusted parts of the steamer in the sand at the beach.

Tennessee Valley Hiking Tips

• Bring plenty of water and a map for navigation. The trails are well-signed, but with many junctions in can help to know where you are. I also tracked our progress using GaiaGPS.
• Cell coverage is spotty and/or non-existent in the valley and canyons.
• Watch for wildlife, particularly along the Tennessee Valley Trail to the beach. Deer, coyotes, bobcats and rabbits all call this place home.

More Tennessee Valley Resources

• Official Tennessee Valley NPS page
• Lunch afterwards? We headed to Joe’s Taco Lounge in Mill Valley.

Marin Headlands Weather Forecast

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Hiked on March 7, 2017. All photos from that date. Thanks to OutdoorsyMama for suggestion the trail!

Los Liones Canyon winds it’s way through brush that at times spills over the trail, creating a tunnel. It climbs, and climbs… and climbs (you’ll really feel it on a hot sunny day), finally reaching the epic coastal views of Parker Mesa Overlook. This is a great seven mile out-and-back hike with decent vertical gain that makes a great training hike. It begins with winding single track but quickly joins wide, double-track fire roads with plenty of sunlight.

Trail Details

Distance: 7.3 miles
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,580 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round
GPX File

Getting to the Trailhead

The trailhead begins at the end of Los Liones Drive in Pacific Palisades. Your best bet is to get driving directions via Google Maps. There are a couple of small parking lots, or you can park along the street. Be sure to check the signs so you don’t end up with a parking ticket. This trailhead can get quite busy, so you may need to park further down Los Liones. You can either walk along the side of the street or take the dirt trail that runs parallel on the east side of the street.

Most signs even within Topanga State Park describe this as Los Liones Canyon, except for this sign at the trailhead.

The Trail

For the first mile, the trail winds back and forth through the canyon with dense brush on either side. In the spring, this trail can be lush with green and wildflowers, but much of the year it’s pretty dry.

At about a mile in, you’ll reach a vista point and junction with the Paseo Miramar Trail. Take a hard left, following the wide fire road up the hill.

The dirt road provides a broad and fairly consistent surface, but very little shade. At about 2.3 miles you reach a crest and descend slightly, following rolling hills dotted with a few old oak trees and a surprise meadow.

The trail rolls up and down, reaching the junction to Parker Mesa Overlook at the 3 mile mark.

Here you’ll turn toward the coast, and follow the ridge all the way out to the overlook half a mile away.

The Parker Mesa Overlook has several benches strategically placed to give you a chance to rest your feet, eat a snack and soak in the amazing views up and down the coast.

Time it right, and you can enjoy the sunset and watch the city light up as night falls.

Photo: Patrik Bangle

When you’re ready, turn around and retrace your steps three miles back to the trailhead.

Los Liones to Parker Mesa Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Tips for Hiking Los Liones Canyon

First of all, you should note that some of the signs spell the canyon Los Leones, though most of them use Los Liones. Don’t be confused. They are one and the same.

• Even though this is a day hike, you should have the 10 essentials, especially sun protection and water. This trail has a lot of exposure and can get hot on a sunny day.
• Sorry Fido. No dogs are allowed, even on leash.
• Ticks are found in this area. Try to avoid brush, consider wearing long pants and check for ticks after your hike.
• Mountain lions live in these mountains. Although encounters are rare, should you run across one, raise your hands over your head to appear bigger and make a lot of noise. It’s also a great idea to hike with friends that you can outrun.
• As an out-and-back hike, you can modify this hike to make it shorter with less vertical gain.

More Los Liones Canyon Resources

• Shoestring Adventures regularly schedules mid-week, after-work hikes on this trail. They don’t go all the way to Parker Mesa Overlook, but they often have tacos! Check out their calendar on Meetup.
• You can also hike to Parker Mesa Overlook from Trippet Ranch.
• GPS user? Download the GPX track for this hike.

Los Liones Canyon Weather Forecast

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All photos Jeff Hester, June 2015 unless noted otherwise.

McWay Falls is “that” waterfall in Big Sur that everyone has seen and many have photographed. I had driven up and down Big Sur several times before I finally made a point of going here. It was on my “must-see” list for years, but I just hadn’t timed my drive right… until this year.

Trail Details

Distance: 0.5 miles
Time: 10 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 50 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

The best place to get to McWay Falls is from Falls Trail just past the entrance to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You’ll pay a day use fee to park here, but the Falls Trail goes under Pacific Coast Highway via a tunnel, making it a safer option than jockeying for a parking spot along busy Highway 1.

Once you pass through the tunnel, you wind your way along the top of the bluff to the right. You’ll see great views of McWay Falls, where the water from McWay Creek spills 80 feet down, directly onto the beach.

Interestingly, that beach didn’t always exist.

In 1983, a huge landslide just north of the cove dumped massive amounts of dirt and silt into the ocean. Pacific Coast Highway was closed for nearly a year as crews worked to clear the slide and stabilize the hills. The cove, which used to be filled entirely with sea water, was filled with sand and sediment that washed up as a result of the landslide.

The overlook itself is the terrace from what used to be the Waterfall House — a vacation residence of Lathrop and Helen Hooper Brown. The ranch was donated to the state on the condition that it be preserved for a state park — dedicated to Julia Pfeiffer Burns — one of the pioneer women of Big Sur.

Standing there on the terrace, it’s hard to imagine a more idyllic bedroom view.

McWay Falls Trail Map

McWay Falls Tips

• Visit later in the afternoon for best the best light
• Don’t ignore the signs warning you to NOT climb down the cliff to the beach. It accelerates erosion and could lead to further access restrictions. Lead by your example.
• Many people park on the side of Highway 1, but avoid the risk by parking on the east side in the state park’s parking lot. You’ll have to pay a few bucks, but you have a scenic tunnel that takes you safely and directly to the fall overlook.
• In December and January, the overlook is a good place to watch for gray whales migrating southward to the calving grounds off the Baja California coast. You can see them return northward in March and April.
• There are bathrooms available inside the state park on the east side of PCH.

More Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Resources

• Take time to hike the Ewoldsen Trail on the “other” side of PCH.
• Official Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Brochure (PDF)
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (official website)

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Weather Forecast

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Hiking the Limekiln Falls Trail is like a walk through another world. It is dark — even on a cloudless day — and verdant green. The trail dives deep into the steepest coastal canyon in California, reaching an impressive 100 foot split waterfall. This is an easy hike, and worth a stop to stretch your legs and marvel at the towering redwoods as you make your way up the Big Sur coast.

Trail Details

Distance: 1.5 miles
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 400 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

From the parking lot, we followed the path past the campsites and alongside Limekiln Creek.

You are immediately struck by how dark the trail seems, even on a bright and sunny day. The steep canyon walls are lined with towering redwoods that soar impossibly high.

Just beyond the campsites, the trail crosses Hare Creek on a wooden bridge, the cuts north to follow Limekiln Creek.

At about 0.25 miles in you reach a junction with the Kiln Trail. Bear right to the Falls Trail.

You’ll criss-cross the creek several times on small wooden bridges until you finally hear the falls.

The trail turns around at this point — so take some time to enjoy the falls.

The Limekiln Falls Trail is short but very photogenic. It’s a great place for kids to enjoy while you stretch your legs and relax.

Limekiln Falls Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Limekiln Falls Tips

• Take your time. This hike really is a “walk in the woods.” Enjoy the sounds, the sights and the scents.
• Take photos. Limekiln Falls and the creeks are extremely photogenic.
• Take your kids (or just remember what it was like to be one). Creek crossings, waterfalls, and giant trees? Yes please!

More Big Sur Resources

• Book campsites at Limekiln State Park
• Hiking and Backpacking Big Sur – Wilderness Press

Limekiln Falls State Park Weather Forecast

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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has everything that Big Sur is known for — dramatic old growth coastal redwoods that tower above you; streams dancing through steep gorges lined with colorful wildflowers; stunning views of the rugged coastline; and photogenic waterfalls.

Trail Details

Distance: 5.9 miles
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,430 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is located 37 miles south of Carmel and 11 miles south of Big Sur State Park on Highway 1. The Ewoldsen Trail begins at the far end of the upper parking lot. There is a sign clearly marking the Ewoldsen Trail.

Hiking the Ewoldsen Trail

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a popular stop in Big Sur, but mainly for the iconic McWay Falls. The parking lot gets busy, as do the picnic areas, but the crowds quickly dissipate as you hike up the mountain.

The trailhead begins with a clearly marked sign on the north side of McWay Creek, and you immediately head into the cool shade of the forest.

McWay Creek babbles and dances as you pass through the lush canyon — lined with giant redwoods. You soon cross to the south side of the creek and climb a bit higher. Listen carefully for Canyon Falls — a 30 foot cascade lined in moss.

Photo credit: Wayne Hsieh

At  reach the bridge crossing the creek and begin climbing up the side of the canyon. The trail bears northwest, rounding a ridge at about 1.3 miles and continuing down to rejoin McWay Creek. Here you’ll reach the bottom of the Ewoldsen loop.

We chose to hike the loop in a counter-clockwise direction, when meant continuing up along the creek for another mile before climbing once again. As you crest the ridge, the views open up.

The trail follows the countour of the mountain down to another valley, then up the other side. At 4.0 miles, you catch glimpses over the ocean down to McWay Rocks off the coast. You may see evidence from the landslide here that closed down PCH — a solemn reminder of the instability of this ever-changing coastline.

From here, the trail is mainly downhill back to close the loop at the creek, and follow the trail back to the trailhead.

Along the way, be watchful for butterflies, birds, and the beautiful iris blooming along the trail.

If  you’re visiting Big Sur, or event recommend including this loop. It’s not too long, and includes some great cascades, towering redwood trees, lush canyons and sweeping coastal views.

Afterwards, be sure to take stroll over to the overlook above McWay Falls.

Ewoldsen Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Ewoldsen Trail Tips

• The eastern side of the Ewoldsen Loop is current closed for maintenance (as of 8/30/15). See the state park website for latest updates.
• The weather in Big Sur can be unpredictable. Bring layers and be prepared for damp or wet weather.

More Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Resources

• Official Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Brochure (PDF)
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (official website)
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is open 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Weather Forecast

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The Temescal Loop trail is one of my favorite hikes on days when the sun dips low. This variation includes a side trip further up the ridge to Skull Rock. And yes, it really does look like a skull (with a little imagination).

Trail Details

Distance: 5.1 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,103 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting There

This hiking trail begins and ends in Temescal Gateway Park, located at 15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades (at the intersection of Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Boulevard). You can either find free parking on Temescal Canyon Road or pay for parking in the park (at the time of writing, $7 which you put in an envelope and slip in a locked box). As you head into the canyon, you’ll reach a series of buildings that are part of a conference center. There are restrooms here with actual plumbing, as well as an information kisok with details on the history of the canyon and a map.

NOTE: The maps on the kiosk show only the trails in the Temescal Gateway Park, and not the adjacent Topanga State Park. The route described here is not fully shown on the kiosk maps, as this loop enters Topanga State Park.

The Trail

Being a loop hike, you can hike this in either direction. I hiked counter-clockwise, heading up the canyon first, then to Skull Rock, and finally down the ridge trail. This gives you more shade on the uphill section and would be my recommendation. If you insist on going clockwise, I’ve got you covered.

Starting in the back of Temescal Gateway Park, continue back up the canyon on the Temescal Canyon Trail, passing the rustic buildings that are still used for conferences, meetings and presentations. As you wind further back up the shady canyon, the trail becomes more quiet as you leave the “picnic crowd” behind.

The canyon trail is mostly shady and snakes along the typically dry Temescal Creek. You’ll pass a number of building for the conference center — but just keep heading back into the canyon and pretty soon the trail becomes very clear and easy to follow.

At about the 1.2 mile mark (starting at Sunset Blvd.) the trail starts to climb more seriously. It maintains a steady climb all the way to Skull Rock, but first you’ll see the (mythical?) waterfall.

You’ll know you have reached the waterfall when you get to the bridge. If you didn’t know there was a waterfall here, you might walk right by it, because every time I’ve hiked here, even the day after rain, it’s been nothing more than a trickle.

They mythical quality of this waterfall?  Explained by this photo from the information kiosk.

The next half mile the trail climbs out of the canyon to the ridgeline. Much of this portion of the trail is shaded, making it a good choice for staying cool(er) on the climb. When you see a break in the brush, stop and soak in the view back down the canyon.

When you reach the junction with the ridgeline trail, you have a choice. Turn left and return to the trailhead via the ridgeline trail, or turn right to continue up hill to Skull Rock. This out-and-back spur adds one mile to the hike, but is worth a visit.

The trail runs near Skull Rock, but continues up the ridge deep into Topanga State Park. To reach Skull Rock, look for one of several use trails on the left leading to the rock outcrop.

From atop the rock, it doesn’t really look like much of a skull, but the view is pretty awesome. Looking south the sweeping arc of the coastline stretches out before you, reaching to distinctive Palos Verdes. On a clear day, you can see Catalina Island.

In the photo below you can see the Temescal Ridge Trail that you’ll take to return to the trailhead.

You’ve climbed uphill to this point. The remainder of this hike will be downhill.

Scramble back to the trail, then retrace your steps to the junction with the canyon trail. This time, you’ll head straight ahead and take the Temescal Ridge Trail back down to the trailhead.

Note that as you descend you will pass two junctions that lead down to residential communities nowhere near your car. Stay on the ridge trail and follow it down. Eventually you’ll reach a series of switchbacks that descend the canyon and return you to your starting point.

Skull Rock and Temescal Loop Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Skull Rock Tips

• The best time to hike this is late in the day as the sun dips low in the sky.
• Watch out for the stop light cameras in Temescal Canyon!
• You can pay for parking in the park, or park on the street for free (pay heed to the signs).

More Temescal Canyon Resources

• Top Trails: Los Angeles by Jerry Schad
• Temescal Gateway Park – official website
• Temescal Canyon Trail Map – printable PDF
• Only like hiking loops in a clockwise direction? No problem.

Temescal Canyon Weather Forecast

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The Rancho Palos Verdes peninsula is a prominent feature in Southern California geography. It protrudes into the Pacific Ocean as if it could almost touch Catalina Island. The hills of Palos Verdes really stand out against the flat terrain surrounding it, making it instantly recognizable from a hike on nearly any hill or mountain in SoCal.

Trail Details

Distance: 3.1 miles

Time: 60-90 min.
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 855 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round
Download the GPX

Getting There

The trail begins at the top of the park. Yep, it’s one of those inverted hikes where you hike downhill in the beginning and uphill at the end. Don’t let that dissuade you from checking it out. There is free street parking along Crenshaw Boulevard near Burrell Lane (heed the street signs).  You can calculate turn-by-turn directions here on Google Maps.

The Trail

Once you’ve parked, you’ll walk to the end of Crenshaw where you’ll see a gate that marks the entrance to the park. Beyond, the road becomes a dirt double-track trail called the Burma Road Trail. This is one of many mixed-used trails in the park, shared by hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers and horses.

At 0.5 miles, bear right on the single track trail marked as Peacock Flats Trail. You may see evidence of restoration still underway from a wildfire in the park in 2009. The trail reconnects with the Burma Road Trail, where you’ll bear right and follow the broad trail as it curves south.

At 1.7 miles, we reached the junction with the Rim Trail. This trail is steep and can be slippery, but gives you an up-close view at Ailor’s Cliff — one of the most interesting geological features in the park.

At the top of Ailor’s Cliff — and right at the 2.0 mile mark — you’ll reach a junction with the Paintbrush Trail. Turn around, soak in the views and catch your breath. Then bear left on the Paintbrush Trail. The rest of the uphill will be much more gradual.

Another 0.3 miles down the trail you’ll reach the Ishibashi Trail. Follow this uphill back to the Burma Road Trail. You’ll find a pit toilet near this junction — the only break you’ll find before you reach your car.

This was a great park, and if you live in the area, it’s definitely worth checking out. It was cool to see how close Catalina Island seemed. It almost looked like you could swim there.

This trail would be an easy trail. I’ve labeled it moderate only for the steep, sketchy Rim Trail. As you can see from the map, there are lots of options in the park, so you can remix this hike to make it easier, longer or whatever you’d like.

Portuguese Bend Trail Map

More Portuguese Bend Resources

• Portuguese Bend Reserve – official website
• Portuguese Bend to Sacred Cove – A longer hike that goes all the way down to the tide pools of Sacred Cove.

Portuguese Bend Weather Forecast

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South Orange County is often dismissed as a snooty, well-to-do slice of suburbia filled with malls, expensive cars and cookie cutter houses. It may fit that stereotype on the surface, but there is much more to explore. There are hidden trails like the Aliso Peak Trail above Laguna Beach.

Trail Details

Distance: 1.6 miles
Time: 60-80 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 533 ft
Summit elevation: 683 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Aliso Peak Trail

The Aliso Peak Trail is officially part of Aliso and Woods Canyon Wilderness Park, but you won’t find it connected to the more familiar parts of the park. The entrance is at the west end of Seaview Park in Laguna Niguel. There is free street parking along Talavera Drive. View in Google Maps. The park’s hours are 7am – 9pm March 1 through October 31, and 7am to 6pm November 1 through February 28.

Hiking to Aliso Peak

From the green grassy Seaview Park, make your way to the west end (closest to the guard shack for the gated community beyond). You’ll see drinking fountains and information signs about the park. From here, the wide dirt trail follows the ridge line with condos on your left, and Aliso Canyon on your right.

The plants you see along this trail have been maintained in their natural condition. This is one of the few areas where plants of the inland mountains and north coastal California grow side-by-side with plants from San Diego County and Baja California. Many of the plants have been identified with markers along the way.

At about 0.3 miles you reach the last picnic table, with awesome ocean views.

From here, veer to the left to find a steep, gravely trail that heads down towards Aliso Peak. Yes, this is one of the few peaks you’ll ever bag where you start out looking down at it.

Veer to the left here

The trail opens up along a street lined with McMansions. Watch for the posts on the right that indicate the trail down. Take it.

At 0.7 miles you reach a saddle junction with the Toovet Trail, which ascends from Laguna Beach below. Stick to the right and head up the fairly steep final push to the summit of Aliso Peak.

When you reach the summit of Aliso Peak, you’re rewarded with great views of the Laguna coastline. And a bench to catch your breath on, or to sit while you watch for whales, or enjoy the sunset. Take some time to just be. That’s where this little trail excels.

Going back, you simply retrace your steps. Although I’ve classified this trail as easy due to the short length, it’s not really for hiking beginners. The hills are steep, a little treacherous and really get your heart pumping.

You can modify this to just take in the easy top section and skip the peak. Then it’s family- and stroller-friendly and a perfect picnic spot. You can also string this together with the Aliso Summit Trail (with a little sidewalk time) and turn this into a longer more serious hike.

Aliso Peak Trail Map

Aliso Peak Tips

• Dogs are allowed, but must remain on leash. There are drinking fountains and a dog bowl at the trailhead.
• There are a number of picnic tables on the first part of the trail, and most of them have great views.
• Aliso Peak is a great spot whale watching during the annual migration, January through April.

More Aliso Peak Resources

• A great spot to take kids for a geology lesson is the nearby Badlands Park.
• Aliso and Woods Canyon Wilderness Park map (PDF)
• Official Aliso and Woods Canyon Wilderness Park web site
• Download the GPX file

Aliso Peak Weather Forecast

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Today was our fourth and final day on the Lost Coast Trail. The last day of any backpacking trip is always bittersweet. We looked forward to sleeping in a bed and eating a meal that wasn’t rehydrated. Yet we want to linger and savor the sense of peace and connectedness we’ve enjoyed on the trail.

Trail Details

Distance: 10 miles
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 75 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Our tide chart told us that high tide peaked at 7:45am. We broke camp in the morning mist and headed south down Miller Flat. One mile south of Big Flat Creek, the terrace ends and the trail heads down to the beach. We arrived a bit early, and the surf still lapped the rock outcrops. We dropped our packs and enjoyed the smell of the salt air and the sound of the waves crashing. The cobbled beach stones chattered as the surf pushed and pulled them down the beach.

Soon we were joined by two other groups of backpackers. The first — an older group of four brothers and their father; the second a group of three twenty-somethings — one hiking barefoot. One by one each group started back down the Lost Coast as the tide began to recede. We unconsciously created space between each party, so we still had the sense of having the trail mostly to ourselves.

The entire Lost Coast Trail is beautiful and surprisingly diverse. But this 4.5 mile section from the south end of Miller Flat to Gitchell Creek may have been my favorite section of the trail. You walk on the beach. The mountains and the forest drop precipitously down to the beach itself. At high tide, the surf meets the forest.

The close proximity of thick forested hills provides hiding spots for the deer, bear and other creatures whose prints you will often see in the sand. It’s odd to think of a bear or a deer on the beach, but here its quite normal. And who can blame them!? The scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Along this section are two popular camp areas at Shipman Creek and Buck Creek. These often fill up, which was one reason we stayed at Miller Flat.

The next mile beyond Gitchell Creek shows signs of signifcant erosion — a reminder that the sea is continually reshaping the coastline.

At mile 8.2 there are two significant boulders on the beach. When you reach these, you’re in the home stretch. Beyond these rocks the beach widens, and on a clear day you can pick out a few homes on the bluffs of Shelter Cove two miles away.

The Black Sands Beach trailhead parking is on a bluff between Telegraph and Humboldt Creeks. Continue past Telegraph Creek, then head up the north side of Humboldt Creek and you’ll see the walkway.

Lost Coast Trail: Day Four Trail Map

Day Four on the Lost Coast: Photo Gallery

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After the Hike

We stowed our gear and I put on a fresh shirt that I left in the car, then headed for lunch in Shelter Cove. From there, we drove the long, windy road back to the 101 and turned south. Our destination? A civilized finish to the trip with a stay at the Glendeven Inn in Mendocino. Highly recommended.

Shelter Cove Weather Forecast

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The Lost Coast Trail

Overview of the Lost Coast Trail

• Day 1: Mattole Beach to Sea Lion Gulch
• Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Spanish Flat
• Day 3: Spanish Flat to Miller Flat
• Day 4: Big Flat to Shelter Cove – You are here

The Lost Coast Trail has several sections which are impassable at high tide, and it is essential that you bring a tide chart along to avoid becoming trapped in one of these spots.

Trail Details

Distance: 7.5 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 100 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

I was the first one up, and took some time to play with my Olloclip macro lens for an early morning micro-adventure, cataloguing the various wildflowers right at our campsite. It never ceases to amaze me how brilliant and beautiful the world is, and often hidden in plain sight.

No more than half a mile down the trail we passed another Lost Coast cabin further down Spanish Flat, looking well-kept and lived in.

At the one mile mark, we crossed through a shady thicket of low trees at Oat Creek. The fog kept the temperatures perfect for hiking.

At two miles, we crossed Kinsey Creek, and marveled at how many creeks there were running this late in summer during a drought. You are never far from fresh water sources on the Lost Coast. In southern California, we’ve grown accustomed to carrying all the water we’ll need for a hike, and it took us while to realize that no, we don’t need to carry three liters of water. One will do.

At three miles, the ancient jeep trail we’d been following on Spanish Flat disappeared — a victim of erosion and the ever-changing coastline. We dropped down to the beach and started hiking on cobbled stones that crunched under our boots.

At 3.6 miles we paused and took a break at Big Creek. Someone had built a rather elaborate structure out of driftwood. This practice is frowned upon by the rangers, as it runs counter to the leave no trace philosophy.

It was at Big Creek that we also saw our first sign of other people in almost two days. A tent was setup at a campsite not far away.

We picked our way down the coast. Hiking on these rocks was difficult and slow, so we tried to stick as close as possible to the base of the bluffs where the ground was at least a little bit more solid.

At 4.6 miles, the trail climbed atop a terrace. We had reached the northern limit of Big Flat. The trail begins to climb, reaching the highest on our trail — a mere 100 feet or so above sea level — through thick, twisted pine trees.

When we finally emerged we came down to the broad terrace of the flat. The trail travels straight through grassy fields. We were wary of rattlesnakes and ticks, but had no problems with either.

The trail widens from single track to double track, eventually becoming a makeshift dirt air strip at mile six. We had heard about this air strip, and it was interesting to finally see it. Not much more than flat, straight dirt road that passed right by the nicest cabins we’d seen yet. The one was definitely inhabited, with solar panels for power and at least one person working in the yard. What a life.

Deer grazed nearby, and one young fawn passed in front of us, completely unfazed by our presence. Not far past the cabin the trail turns abruptly 90 degrees and heads straight toward the ocean before turning to follow near the top of the bluff.

At 7 miles, we reached Big Flat Creek. It’s a big creek, and there are a number of good camp sites on both sides of it. We dropped our packs and scouted out the best. I had my eye on the tall forest of trees on the south side of the creek on Miller Flat, and found an idyllic spot out the hot afternoon sun.

While there really isn’t a bad campsite on the Lost Coast, this was the most comfortable. It was a fitting site for our final night on the trail.

We were the first in the area to set up camp, but we were not alone. Over the next few hours several other small groups of backpackers showed up. It was the most people we had seen yet, but even so we were spread out. Sitting on the beach watching the sunset we saw other people, but back in our camp we had solitude and privacy.

Lost Coast Trail: Day Three Map

Day Three on the Lost Coast: Photo Gallery

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Shelter Cove Weather Forecast

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Come back tomorrow for Day 4 on the Lost Coast Trail!

The Lost Coast Trail

Overview of the Lost Coast Trail

• Day 1: Mattole Beach to Sea Lion Gulch
• Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Spanish Flat
• Day 3: Spanish Flat to Miller Flat – You are here
• Day 4: Miller Flat to Shelter Cove

I woke up to the early morning light. Outside our tent the air was thick with fog and heavy with moisture. Large drops of condensation clung to our rain fly, and everything that wasn’t covered was damp.

Trail Details

Distance: 7 miles
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 120 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

We refilled our water bottles in the creek at the bottom of Sea Lion Gulch, then started down the beach. This section of the Lost Coast is notable for the bowling ball-sized boulders. We had to pick our steps slowly and carefully, making progress slow.

Half a mile down the coast, the trail heads overland. The distant balancing rock you see in the photo below is the visual cue: this point is impassable at all tide levels. Turn inland up the wash and look up the hill for signs of a trail.

The sign for this overland detour is easy to miss. It’s high on the bluff, perched on a rock. As you’re hiking down the beach, you’ll find that the rocks and the water seem to be squeeze out the beach. Look for that balancing rock and then find the overland detour.

We headed into the gully and found the trail as it detoured around the point.

The sign for the LCT detour sits high on the bluff, well away from the beach.

This rocky spine marked the high point of the overland detour, which offered sweeping views of the coastline in both directions.

On the downhill side of the detour are the remains of another old cabin and a junction with the Cooskie Creek Spur trail. This junction is tricky, as the sign for the LCT is on the opposite side of the post — pointing in a non-obvious direction.

This minimalist approach to trail signage is a recurring theme on the Lost Coast. I had a conversation with one of the rangers who explained that it is quite intentional. The theory is that this land is wilderness, and they have attempted to keep the human touch light. I like that approach, but it means you’ll have to use your navigation smarts to keep yourself on the right trail. When you see a sign or even a trace of a junction, pause for a moment and look around. Make sure you’ve taken the right fork in the trail.

This cabin has seen better days, but just imagine the view someone once enjoyed. Actually, you don’t have to imagine. Hike the Lost Coast Trail and this view can be yours.

Back down on the beach, we picked our way among the cobbled stone and coarse black sand, around the rocks and ahead of the waves. Beach hiking here is tough and slow. By this time the sun had burned off all the fog and morning haze, and it while the breezes were still cool, we were working up a sweat.

At mile 5 we reached Randall Creek, which marks the north end of Spanish Flat. This grassy terrace gave us a welcome break from the tough beach hiking. Hiking on solid earth is bliss! We stopped here for lunch and setup our fly for some shade.

Just two easy miles later, we stopped to camp just south of Spanish Creek. We had the beach entirely to ourselves, and the time to enjoy it. We kicked our boots off and even took a little nap on the black sand beach. There were no emails or text messages to reply to. There were no updates to post. Just two people enjoying the sun on the Lost Coast.

Lost Coast Trail: Day Two Map

Day Two on the Lost Coast: Photo Gallery

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Shelter Cove Weather Forecast

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Come back tomorrow for Day 3 on the Lost Coast Trail!

The Lost Coast Trail

Overview of the Lost Coast Trail

• Day 1: Mattole Beach to Sea Lion Gulch
• Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Spanish Flat – You are here
• Day 3: Spanish Flat to Miller Flat
• Day 4: Miller Flat to Shelter Cove

We arrived at Mattole Beach early in the evening. The trailhead has a scattering of car campsites, which we were eager to leave behind. We donned our backpacks, hit the trail, and promptly lost ourselves in the vast beauty of the coast. It feels somehow primal; the convergence of sea and land on this solitary, rugged section of the Northern California coastline. There are no roads on this section of the coast–the terrain is too rugged. There is no cell phone coverage. And we saw very few people. We were disconnected from the modern world, and reconnecting to the land, the sea and ourselves.

I breathed in deeply, the moist, salty air filling my nostrils and renewing my energy with each step. We were off the grid in the best way possible. We were on the Lost Coast Trail. 

The Lost Coast is so named because this section of this section of land was too steep and rugged to build a road. Big Sur was tamed by Highway 1, but not the Lost Coast. Highway 1 veers inland 20 miles around this remote section of coastline. There are no roads or cars. Just getting to the trailhead is a journey in itself.

Trail Details

Distance: 25 miles
Time: 3-4 days
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous multi-day
Elevation gain: 50 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

We hiked the Lost Coast Trail over four days and three nights — a comfortable pace that allowed flexibility in our hiking schedule to accommodate the high tides. We started with a rough itinerary, but with the exception of the third night, changed every planned camp location. Have a plan, but plan to be flexible. The Lost Coast demands it.

An Overview of the Lost Coast Trail

The first day on the trail we started out about 5:30 PM, and hiked an easy 5-1/2 miles. Along the way, we stopped by the beautiful and historic Punta Gorda Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1910 after numerous fatal shipwrecks off the coast, and was in operation until 1961, when it was replaced by more advanced navigation technology. There used to be a number of beautiful cottages and out buildings, but these were tragically burned down by the forest service in the early ’70s. Today, only the concrete structures of the lighthouse and the fuel house remain.

The trail, such as it is, mainly involves following the coastline. The terrain often is soft sand that slows down your pace to a slog, or rocks that force you to carefully choose each step. There are two large flats along the route that offer solid ground–a welcome respite from the rocks, sand and gravel.

Water is never far away. Even in a dry year like this, we met sources of fresh water every mile or less along the trail — from small rivulets to full-fledged creeks.

Note: in storms and during the rainy season, these creeks can swell to waist-high depth and crossing can be treacherous. 

Where is the Lost Coast?

The Lost Coast Trail in the King Range National Conservation Area is about five hours north of San Francisco. To get to Shelter Cove, take the Garberville exit off Highway 101, heading west on Shelter Cove Road. Right right on Beach Road, and continue about a mile to the Black Sands Beach parking lot. Get Google Maps directions to the Black Sands Beach trailhead.

To reach Mattole Beach on the north end of the Lost Coast, take Lighthouse Road west from Petrolia, all the way to the end. Get Google Maps directions to the Mattole Trailhead.

Note that the drive to either of these trailheads takes patience. It can take 1-1/2 hours to drive from the 101 to Shelter Cove, and the road can be harrowing. It’s all part of the adventure.

The Lost Coast Trail Map

Lost Coast Trail Tips

• Bear canisters are required throughout the King Range National Conservation Area. While we didn’t see any signs of bears, two guys we shared the shuttle with had seen bear tracks on the beach on their last day of the trip. Yes, there are bears on the Lost Coast. Fortunately, you can rent canisters from the ranger station for $5 per canister, per trip at these three locations.
• Where to go when Nature calls… This one blew me away, but the rule on the Lost Coast Trail is to dig a hole on the beach below the high tide mark and make your deposit right there. Everywhere else I’ve ever hiked the rules typically have you do this well away from water, but in this case, the rangers want you to do it in the ocean. In fact, its right on the permit.
• Rangers will check and fine for violations. Violations include not carrying a bear canister, not carrying a permit, or not following the rules regarding campfires. Read the rules, and follow them. We met a ranger on our fourth day, and he checked our permit and canister and actually quizzed us to make sure we read the rules.
• Which direction to hike? North or South? This one is easy. Hike from north to south. The prevailing winds will be at your back. Start at Mattole Beach and head south to Shelter Cove.

Permits

Permits are required to hike the Lost Cost Trail. Check availability at Outdoor Status.

Lost Coast Resources

• Getting to the trailhead is a challenge in itself. You could plan a yo-yo (out-and-back) trip, but that turns it into a challenging 50 mile hike. Most people plan to take a shuttle. There are two shuttle companies that serve the area: Lost Coast Shuttle and Lost Coast Adventures. We used Lost Coast shuttle and were super-pleased with the service. We drove to the Black Sands Beach trailhead on the south end of the trail in Shelter Cove, where the shuttle met us and drove us up and around to the north end of the trail — a windy hour and a half drive. The benefit to this approach is that when you get to the end of the trail, your car is waiting for you, rather than you waiting for the shuttle. The shuttle is pricey, but understandably so since each round trip takes about four hours total. Keep in mind that the more in your group, the lower the overall cost of the shuttle–as long as your group fits in one shuttle.
• GPS user? Download our Lost Coast GPX file.
• Download the King Range Wilderness Map  (8.5 MB PDF)
• Monthly weather averages. Note: it gets wet here during much of the year.

Should you hike the Lost Coast Trail?

Follow the links below for my day-by-day trip report and guide for our Lost Coast backpacking trip. I highly recommend this trail to anyone with a sense of adventure and a love of rugged wilderness.

• Day 1: Mattole Beach to Sea Lion Gulch
• Day 2: Sea Lion Gulch to Spanish Flat
• Day 3: Spanish Flat to Miller Flat
• Day 4: Miller Flat to Shelter Cove

If you’ve got questions about the Lost Coast Trail, let me know in the comments below.

The Parker Mesa Overlook is perched high above Malibu in Topanga State Park, with expansive views of the coast as well as the LA basin. This out-and-back route clocks in just under seven miles, mostly along a well-graded fire road. The trail is popular with trail runners, hikers and mountain bikers, who enjoy the ocean breezes and the panoramic vistas.

Trail Details

Distance: 6.8 miles
Time: 60-80 min.
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,921 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

This trail to the Parker Mesa Overlook begins at Trippet Ranch in Topanga State Park. This ranch was originally homesteaded by the Robinson family back in the 1890s, and sold to Federal court judge Oscar Trippet in 1917. Today, it is the headquarters of Topanga State Park.

Trippet Ranch is located at 20825 Entrada Road, Topanga CA 90290. Click here to generate your own driving directions to the trailhead on Google Maps. The park is open from 8am to sunset, and charges $10 for day use parking. I prefer to pay for parking and support the park system, but you can park outside of the park on Entrada Road. Fair warning: there are signs explicitly stating that you must park off the pavement. I have seen cars partially hanging out on the pavement being ticketed, and I’m sure they ended up paying much more than  the $10 parking fee.

Trail Overview

At the parking lot there are restrooms and in the corner, this sign marks the beginning of the trail. We start out hiking through 100-year old native oak trees with the early morning sunlight filtering through.

At the first junction (about 0.25 miles), we turned right — there’s a sign pointing the direction to the Parker Mesa Overlook — and followed this dirt fire road.

Soon the trail begins to climb steadily. As the trail approaches a bend, you’re treated with a bench and your first view of the Pacific Ocean. On this day, we could even see Catalina Island in the distance.

From here the trail snakes along the ridge line like a roller coaster.  There isn’t much tree coverage, so depending on the time of day and weather you’ll get a lot of sun.

Along the way there are distinctive geological formations of sandstone common in the Santa Monica Mountains.

At the 2.9 mile mark, we reached a junction with a trail that climbs from Pacific Palisades and a broad single track trail that heads the last 0.5 miles to Parker Mesa Overlook. Look for the trail marker, or simply head towards the coast and you’ll find your way.

The Parker Mesa Overlook has several benches with sweeping views of the LA basin and the coastline. We stopped here for a light lunch and appreciated how clear it was today. This would be an amazing spot to watch the sunset!

Imagine what this view would look like when the San Gabriel Mountains are covered in snow!

After satisfying our appetite for these beautiful views, we retraced our steps back to the trailhead at Trippet Ranch.

This 6.8 mile out-and-back route follows a well-maintained fire road. We shared the trail with mountain bikers and trail runners, but it never felt crowded or even really busy. We’re looking forward to hiking this trail again to watch the sunset.

Parker Mesa Overlook Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Parker Mesa Overlook Tips

• Support our State Parks and pay for parking at Trippet Ranch. But if you really need to save a few bucks on parking, be sure you’re parked completely off the pavement on Entrada Road.
• Pick-up the park map for $2 at the entrance booth. It’s worth it.
• Get an early start. The park opens at 8am, and the parking lot was full by the time we finished our hike.
• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Much of the trail is exposed.
• Post hike refreshment? Check out the outdoor patio at Abuelitas Mexican Restaurant

More Topanga State Park Resources

• Official Topanga State Park website
• Day Hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains – Robert Stone

Topanga Canyon Weather Forecast

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Temescal Canyon in the Pacific Palisades provides a beautiful setting for a short hike. Wooded canyon? Check. Great exercise with a challenging climb? Check. Beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific coastline? This hike has all of the above. We checked this trail out late on a Saturday afternoon and were able to enjoy the sunset from Temescal Ridge.

Trail Details

Distance: 3.1 miles
Time: 60-80 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 545 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

This hiking trail begins and ends in Temescal Gateway Park, located at 15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades (at the intersection of Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Boulevard). You can either find free parking on Temescal Canyon Road or pay for parking in the park. When we visited, parking fee was $7 for the day. As you head into the canyon, you’ll reach a series of buildings that are part of a conference center. There are restrooms here, as well as an information kisok with details on the history of the canyon and a map. Note that the maps show only the trails in the Temescal Gateway Park, and not the adjacent Topanga State Park (which this trail travels through).

Trail Description

We headed  into the Temescal Canyon, watching for the signs to the trailhead. Although you could hike this in either direction, we wanted to take the Temescal Ridge Trail up to catch the sun before it set. We knew it would be getting dark on our way back, so we brought along our headlamps.

The trail was easy to locate, and begins immediately climbing steeply up the side of the canyon.

As you enter Topanga State Park, you’re reminded that dogs are not allowed on the trail. The trails twists and turns to climb quickly out of the canyon, then settles to a more gradual incline when you reach the ridge. There are several places along the way with great views of the coastline, so take time to stop and enjoy them.

The mid-point of the loop is almost exactly at the 1.5 mile mark. We reached the junction with the Temescal Canyon Trail. We departed from the ridge and began our descent into the canyon.

The Temescal Canyon Trail is much more shaded, with trees and brush often creating a tunnel of foliage to hike through.

At 1.9 miles, we reached the bridge overlooking what at times is probably an wonderful waterfall. Sadly, we haven’t had any measurable rain in a long while, so the best it could muster was a trickle. We will definitely return in the spring after we’ve had some good rain.

The last mile gently slopes down the bottom of the tree-lined Temescal Canyon. At this point, it was dark enough that we needed to flip on our headlamps. The crowds that swarmed the park earlier had disappeared and we had the trail to ourselves.

Finally we reached the conference center, passing a series of buildings and making our way back to the parking lot.

This was a little hike, and I can see why it’s popular with local trail runners. I’ll be back again to visit the waterfall and creek after we’ve had some rain.

Temescal Canyon Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Temescal Canyon Tips

• Pay for parking in Temescal Gateway Park, or find free parking outside of the park

More Temescal Canyon Resources

• Top Trails: Los Angeles by Jerry Schad
• Temescal Gateway Park – official website
• Temescal Canyon Trail Map – printable PDF

Temescal Canyon Weather Forecast

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I love San Francisco. Don’t get me wrong. I love LA, too. But as far as cities go, SF is one of my favorites. Last week Joan and I drove up to visit family for Thanksgiving. My mom is a fantastic cook, and I knew we’d have to get out and stretch our legs after our early dinner so we could at least partially justify that apple pie we’d enjoy later that day.

Trail Details

Distance: 1.5 miles
Time: 60 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 443 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Getting to Lands End

Lands End is located on the northwester corner of San Francisco, and is stewarded by the National Parks Service. We started by parking in the lot at the end of El Camino Del Mar (turn-by-turn directions on Google Maps).

When we went on Thanksgiving Day, there was plenty of free parking available.

The Lands End Trail

Head toward the coast, and follow a long flight of stairs down to the Lands End Trail. At the bottom of the stairs, you’ll follow the trail to the right (east), but take your time to enjoy the views.

There are a number of overlooks along the Lands End trail, but much of your view will be filtered through trees.

At the 0.56 mile mark, we followed the steps down toward Mile Rock Beach. You’ll descend (and later ascend) about 180 feet down to the rocky beach.

Over the years, many ships have wrecked on the rocks off this section of coast. It’s easy to see why. Numerous rocks poke up above the surface, hinting at the treachery lurking just below.

There are a number of informal (and possibly illegal?) fire rings setup on this beach. We explored a bit, then took the trail up to the Eagle Point Labyrinth.

During the early 20th century, this was part of a military base, and this point was fortified with guns to guard the entrance to the San Francisco Bay. Now children play in the stone labyrinth, and everyone enjoys the amazing views.

From this point, you have a great view back down on Mile Rock Beach.

We wound our way back to the steps and up to the Lands End trail, then headed back to the car and the promise of Mom’s apple pie.

The Lands End Trail normally is open clear through to the ritzy Sea Cliff neighborhood, but it was close for repairs along that final segment. It’s scheduled to reopen sometime in January 2014.

Hiking through Lands End feels light years away from San Francisco, but it’s not. Go explore it. But don’t forget your camera or your sense of adventure.

Lands End Trail Map

Photo Gallery

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Lands End Resources

• Golden Gate Conservancy’s Lands End Overview
• Eagle Point Labyrinth on Yelp

Lands End Weather Forecast

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Sandstone Peak and the Mishe Mokwa Trail in particular are revered by many as one of the “must-hike” trails in Southern California. Casey over at Modern Hiker describes it as “the Hike That Got Me Hiking.” It was Kolby “Condor” Kirk’s 6th hike in his 100 hikes goal, back when he really getting into hiking. This trail is located in the Santa Monica Mountains near the border of Los Angeles and Ventura County, and with views of the valley, the Pacific Ocean, and the mountains to the east, not to mention Balancing Rock, Split Rock and other interesting it is a pretty special area.

Trail Details

Distance: 6.1 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,686 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

The Sandstone Peak trailhead parking is about one mile past Circle X Ranch on Yerba Buena Road. The landmark on Pacific Coast Highway is the famous seafood roadhouse, Neptune’s Net — where we would stop for lunch after our hike. The road up to the trailhead is narrow and very crooked. We took our time and saw more bicycles than cars.

The gravel parking lot has plenty of parking. Near the entrance is a sign with details on the area and the requisite warnings about wildlife and safety. The trail begins at the gate, and proceeds promptly and steeply up hill.

After about 0.4 miles you reach the first of many junctions. To the left, the trail heads directly to Sandstone Peak — a little over a mile away. To the right is the Mishe Mokwa trail. This trail also takes you to Sandstone Peak. It is a longer route, but it turns the hike into a loop with some really interesting things to see and lots of options for add-on adventure. We headed to the right.

The trail winds along the side of the mountain, with views extending across the valley and often much further. In another 0.2 miles we reached another junction. This is where the Backbone Trail joins the Mishe Mokwa Trail. We stayed to the left and followed the trail along the backside of the mountain.

At about the 1.5 mile mark, look across the valley and you’ll see the remarkable Balancing Rock. This huge boulder looks like a gentle breeze could topple it, but it’s been there for ages. It’s remarkable.

The trail winds along the side of the valley, eventually reaching a shady low-point at Split Rock. Another great boulder, this one split into three pieces. One of the cracks is big enough to walk through. There is a picnic table, and it’s a great spot for a break.

Optional Side Trip #1 – Balancing Rock

Just beyond Split Rock you’ll see a sign for the trail to Balancing Rock. This is an out-and-back side trip that will take you up close to that giant, tottering boulder. We decided to take this another time. We continued on the Mishe Mokwa trail, climbing gradually higher and higher.

Optional Side Trip #2 – Tri-Peaks

At about the 3 mile mark you’ll come across a couple of junctions with signs to Tri-Peaks. This out-and-back option adds a fair climb and another mile to the trip. It was hot, and we decided to stick to our original plan: bag Sandstone Peak.

Inspiration Point

At 3.5 miles, look for the sign to your right to Inspiration Point. This is a very short spur that really doesn’t add much to the length of the trek, and provides some truly inspirational views.

Continuing on, we climbed in full exposure. It was getting hotter than we expected. We were grateful when we reached the final spur that took us to the top of Sandstone Peak. We ascended these steps, then picked our way along the ridge line. The trail is sometimes difficult to find, but we aimed for the summit, and soon were there. The last bit we even used our hands here and there as it’s fairly steep.

Sandstone Peak

The views from Sandstone Peak are phenomenal.

The Summit Register

Most of the popular and prominent peaks in Southern California have  a small notebook stashed near the peak in a waterproof canister. It’s customary to sign the summit register to record your ascent of said peak. For many peaks the Sierra Club regularly  replaces these notebooks, which on popular trails can fill up quickly. The historical registers are sent to the Bancroft Library in Berkeley for archival, and are available for viewing.

The summit register atop Sandstone Peak looks like an old-fashioned brass-covered mail slot, built into the memorial to Herbert Allen, the namesake of Mount Allen, the real name of what everyone calls Sandstone Peak. Confused? It may be the heat.

Speaking of the heat, and summit registers, it’s always entertaining to see what other hikers scrawl in the trail register. It’s customary to leave a little message to mark the occasion, as well as the date and your name. On this particularly hot day, the entries were muy caliente!

It’s HOT! Hotter than the crevasses of Satan’s butt cheeks.”  – Summit register entry from earlier in the day

Video from Sandstone Peak and the Backbone Trail

This is my first attempt at recording video using my StickPic. I recorded a couple thoughts at the summit of Sandstone Peak, as well as on the hike down the Backbone Trail to the trailhead. It’s a little rough around the edges, so if you’ve used one of these and have some tips, let me know.

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Mishe Mokwa to Sandstone Peak Trail Map

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Sandstone Peak Tips

• Bring the 10 essentials
  
• Take time to thumb through the summit register
• Be sure to stop at Inspiration Point
• No permits are required
• Trailhead parking is free
• The road getting to the trailhead is very windy so take your time.

More Sandstone Peak Resources

• Hike the entire trail (in reverse) in 15 minutes (video)
• Hiking Mishe Mokwa Trail to Tri-Peaks and Sandstone Peak – ModernHiker
• Hiking Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak: A Photo Guide – California Through My Lens
• Trail Guides and Hiking Books for the Santa Monica Mountains
• Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Sandstone Peak Weather Forecast

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I found that this forecast underestimates the temperature for this location. I got better results from the NOAA website.

When the heat is on, the coast beckons. This easy, family-friendly hiking trail begins at the historic Pacific Palisades home of Will Rogers and loops up to Inspiration Point. The Inspiration Loop Trail is not challenging. It’s not long. But with balmy breezes, great views, and a dose of history, Inspiration Loop makes a fun outing.

Trail Details

Distance: 2.6 miles
Time: 60-80 min.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 662 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round
Download GPX

Will Rogers was a cowboy, a vaudeville performer, humorist, social commentator and actor. He bought the land back in the 1920s, and built a home, polo field, stable and hiking trails. When Will’s widow died, the land was given to the State of California on the condition that polo be played there every year.  Today, you can still see polo matches and take horse riding lessons.

If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” – Will Rogers

The house and grounds are being restored to the original state. There are docent led tours of the house, and a visitors center with exhibits on the history of Will Rogers’ life and career.

We walked along the veranda of the house, then followed the path along a stone wall to the trailhead.

You might notice that the grassy area outside the house has what looks like sand traps — which in fact, they are. Will Rogers built a two-hole golf course for a friend of his who would visit. At the end of the grass area, the sign directs you to the beginning of the Inspiration Loop Trail.

We headed up the broad dirt trail in the shade of eucalyptus and oak trees.

At 0.83 miles, we reached this junction. Here we had the  choice of continuing along the fire road for .2 miles to Inspiration Point, or taking the single track trail to the right and a .4 mile scenic route. Both end up at Inspiration Point. We opted for the longer, more scenic route.

This trail at times pass under a canopy of scrub and vines. It was all dry and brown in the summer, but would  be lush and green in the springtime.

The single track trail finally emerges at the back of the the park, and the eastern boundary of Topanga State Park. There is an information board with a map of the area, and the Backbone Trail continues up this ridge.

We followed the signs directing us up the spur to Inspiration Point. The views of the area were beautiful.

From the top, we headed back down the spur to the Inspiration Loop Trail, this time heading east on the fire road. This trail soon turns south and downward along the ridge, meeting back up at the “golf course.”

Inspiration Loop Trail Map

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Will Rogers State Historic Park Tips

• Parking is $12. If that seems steep, just remember that you’re supporting the State Park system.
• Check the Will Rogers Polo Club schedule. They play regularly at the field near the parking lot. If you haven’t seen a polo match, it’s entertaining.
• Allow time to stop in the visitor center. It’s worth checking out, and you’ll learn a lot about Will Rogers.

More Will Rogers State Historic Park Resources

• Driving Directions
• Will Rogers State Historic Park – Official web site
• Will Rogers State Historic Park Brochure (PDF)
• The Backbone Trail

Will Rogers State Historic Park Weather Forecast

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Last year during the holidays, Joan and I visited my mom and her husband in San Francisco. While the city of San Francisco is great for walking, I was surprised how easy it is to find a wilderness experience nearby. I have not hiked much in the Bay Area, so I put out a call to Twitter for suggestions, and got a great suggestion: Hike Angel Island.

Trail Details

Distance: 5.9 miles
Time: ~3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 1427 ft
Dogs: Not allowed
When to go: Year-round

This loop uses two trails — the North Ridge and the Sunset trails — and is truly the road less traveled — at least of the options available on Angel Island. Once you disembark from the ferry, bear to the left and look for the sign marking the North Ridge Trail.

You will initially climb a set of stairs set into the hillside by the Conservation Corp decades ago, shaded by towering pine and oak trees.

When you reach the perimeter, the trail continues across the road after a short jog to the right. Most people who visit Angel Island take the wide and mostly level perimeter road, shared by hikers, runners and bikers. In contrast, the North Ridge Trail offers quiet solitude and mostly single track — no bikes allowed.

At last you begin to leave the crowds behind and see a part of the island that few visit. The North Ridge Trail is windy; slowly but steadily climbing in altitude as you near the summit of Mt. Livermore. You’ll notice different climate zones as you traverse the island–the cool shade of the oak trees; the sunny exposure amidst red manzanita; aging pines towering over saplings; and the drier, sunnier south side of the island.

As you near the summit, watch for a spur to the right that leads to Mount Livermore. This final section is not long, and the summit has several picnic tables that make it a perfect place to stop for lunch.

Mount Livermore

On a clear day, you’d see Alcatraz, the San Francisco skyline, the Bay and Golden Gate Bridges from here.

After your break, retrace your steps to the Sunset Trail to your right, following it all the way back to the docks at Ayala Cove. Note that you will cross two roads; don’t follow them, just look for where the trail picks up after a short jog.

When you get back to Ayala Cove, you can stop in the Visitor Center for more information on the history of the island.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

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Additional Resources

• Bay Area Hiker Trail Guide
• Getting to Angel Island

Batiquitos Lagoon in north San Diego County is one of the few remaining tidal wetlands on the southern coast of the United States. Located between Carlsbad and Encinitas, the lagoon is managed as a wildlife preserve by the California Department of Fish and Game. This lagoon is home to several protected nesting areas and water sports (even kayaking) are not allowed, keeping the waterway exceptionally natural.

Trail Details

Distance: 3.25 miles
Time: ~1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 250 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year-round

Joan and I stopped by here last Saturday. She was feeling a cold coming on, and so we were looking for an easy hike. The Batiquitos Lagoon trail fit the bill perfectly. As an out-and-back hike, you can tailor the distance to suit your time and energy. We hiked the entire length and back — a modest 3.25 miles with only one gentle hill along the way.

There are several access points to the Batiquitos Lagoon trail, but I recommend starting at the beginning. Drive to the end of Gabbiano Lane in Carlsbad, and you’ll see a sign marking the start of the trail.

About 30 yards down the trail is the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation Nature Center, with information on guided walks, special events and a free trail map and nature guide.

This wide, gentle trail meanders along the north side of the lagoon. There are a few stands of eucalyptus and palm trees along the way.

In spite of being so close to well-developed Carlsbad, the trail along the lagoon has retained much of it’s natural beauty.

If you follow the trail to the end, you’ll see a gravel road on a berm with a locked gate to a protected bird nesting area, including the Least Tern. If you are watchful, you may see them from May to August when they migrate here to nest.

Take a moment to take in the views of the lagoon. It’s not hard to imagine what this area looked a hundred years ago — at least, until you turn around toward the hills developed with homes.

This is the turnaround point. Retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Click a thumbnail to view the larger images.

One of the challenges of winter is that during the week, it’s already dark outside when I leave the office. I don’t mind hiking in the dark, but many people aren’t comfortable hiking in the wilderness at night, and most of the regional trails are officially closed from sundown to sunrise.

Trail Details

Distance: 6.8 miles
Time: ~2 hours
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation gain: 500 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year-round

The trail begins at the end of the sports park parking lot on Chapparosa. You follow the paved trail as it parallels Salt Creek. Keep your eyes open for rabbits and the occasional snake, and listen for the croaking frogs.

There are three major arteries that the trail passes under, Niguel Road, Camino del Avion and Pacific Coast Highway. There are tunnels under all three, and the trails can get a little confusing as you get intersecting paths from those streets joining the main trail. Remember to head down and through the tunnel, then keep paralleling the creek through the valley.

When you pass under Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll see the golf course and homes for a short distance before you reach the beach. As you can see in this photo, there are several paths that seem to merge together. The main trail is marked with a dashed yellow divider line — a reminder to keep to the right as this trail is shared by road bikers.

Once you reach the beach, you can stop and enjoy the views, or extend your hike with a beach walk. Your best bet is to head south, and you can walk all the way to the Dana Point.

When you’re ready to head back, retrace your steps back to your car.

Even though this trail is suburban and paved, it has beautiful scenery and doesn’t feel like you’re walking through a park. The creek is left in a natural state to support the native wildlife.

Trailhead

Parking is at the end of Chapparosa off Golden Lantern. Follow Chaparossa all the way to the sports park at the end, and park as far into the park as you can. The trail begins at the far southwest end of the parking lot.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Additional Salt Creek Trail Resources and Tips

• City of Laguna Niguel’s trail description
• There is ample free parking at trailhead, but avoid parking near the baseball field in season, or risk a dent from a stray fly ball!
• There are restroom facilities both at the trailhead and Salt Creek beach.
• Keep to the right. This paved trail is wide, but shared by road bikers and runners.
• This is a family-friendly hike. You can easily bring a stroller (with big wheels, hopefully) or modify the length to suit your child’s endurance.

This loop is one of my favorite hiking trails in Crystal Cove State Park. At 5.5 miles and over 800′ of net vertical gain, this hike makes for a great workout. The length is about right to make it worth the trip, but won’t take all day. And the scenery is fantastic. The hike down Moro Ridge gives you some of the best coastal views in the park.

Trail Details

Distance: 5.5 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 820 ft
When to go: Year round

The trail begins at the bottom of the parking lot. Take a left and follow the dirt trail that parallels the fence-line.

As the dusty trail winds down to the bottom of the hill, and you’ll turn left and cross the bridge. This is the El Moro Canyon trail.

At this point you have to chose which way to hike the loop. You can take the first right and hike up the trail known affectionately as “BFI“. Polite hikers will insist that this stands for Big “Fat” Incline, although I’ve heard more colorful options, and tend to agree with the latter.

I prefer to take this loop clockwise, continuing up El Moro Canyon and “I Think I Can“, then descending via El Moro Ridge and BFI. The choice is yours.

Continue up El Morro Canyon until you reach the second trail to the right. This is called East Cutoff Trail, or “I Think I Can.” It’s a long, uphill slog. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a few mountain bikers climbing slow-and-steady up this hill.

When you reach the top of the hill, bear right to head down El Moro Ridge back towards the coastline. During the spring, the hills are dotted with wildflowers. In the summer, keep your eyes peeled for rattlesnakes! I’ve also seen rabbits and deer (yes, there are deer back here!).

El Moro Ridge meanders toward the coast, eventually descending back down. You’ll get great views up and down the coastline from Laguna Beach to Newport Coast. As you see Pacific Coast Highway, watch for the trail marker on your right. This trail becomes BFI and leads you back down to El Moro Canyon just east of the bridge you crossed earlier.

From here, retrace your steps back to the visitor center.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Essential Crystal Cove State Park Resources

• 3D view of route in Google Earth
• GPS user? Download the GPX file
• Crystal Cove Interpretive Association
• I’ve seen rabbits, rattlesnakes and deer here. There are supposedly coyotes and bobcats, but I haven’t seen them. If you’re interested in learning more about the wildlife at Crystal Cove, stop by the visitor center. They have some great displays and free brochures to the plants, birds and wildlife of the park.
• You can pay your Crystal Cove day-use fees using the Passport Parking app after you safely park your vehicle. Complementary ParksWiFi is available to assist with processing your payment.
• SoCalHiker’s Inside Crystal Cove State Park

Trestles Beach is world-famous for great surfing, with a series of surf spots. Running from north to south are Cottons, Uppers, Middles, Lowers and Church. These beaches are extremely popular with surfers, and this section of coastline is one of the most unspoiled coastal areas in southern California.

Trail Details

Distance: 3.7 miles
Time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 171 ft
Dogs: No
Parking: $15

Trestles is named for the railroad trestles that cross the San Mateo Creek. The area before the outlet are protected wetlands, and the “creek” usually only flows to the ocean in the winter season when it’s been raining. The sediment from the creek has helped create the unique conditions that make Trestles such a popular surf spot.

Begin at the intersection of Cristianitos and El Camino Real at the south end of San Clemente. There is a day use parking lot for the State Beach (currently $15) or if you get lucky, you can find an open spot on the street. Because this is where nearly all the surfers park, it usually fills up early.

You can follow the crowds along the paved path south of Cristianitos. The wide paved path is filled with bikes, people walking with surfboards and skaters on the weekend. But when the crowds die down, nature is never far away. Bobcats and deer can sometimes be spotted through the brush.

We headed down the path and after about a mile, we saw the famous train trestles that give the beach it’s name.

Cross the train tracks with caution. These railroad tracks have frequent traffic.

Across the tracks is the beach, and immediately before you is Upper Trestles or simply “Uppers.” From here, amble along the beach to the south, soaking in the sunshine, the surf and the coastline. It’s a zen-like experience that’s meant to be savored, not rushed. Stop and let your senses take everything in.

At about 2.25 miles you’ll see another seasonal creek that ends at a marshy wetland. Cross the train tracks and follow the paved road up the bluff. From the top of the bluff you’ll have a great view over all of the coastline. Eventually this road winds back to the paved trail you walked in on. Follow this to the right and back to the parking lot.

Trail Map for the “Tour de Trestles” Hike

Essential San Onofre State Beach Resources

• Official San Onofre State Beach website
• SoCal Hiker’s Guide to San Onofre State Beach

The Cristianitos Fault is a major earthquake fault line located less than one mile from the San Onofre nuclear power plant. This hike takes you on a 3.8 mile loop through San Onofre State Beach to the site of the fault line. Along the way, you’ll see the Monterey Formation, which holds most of the oil and gas deposits known in the LA basin and off the coast, as well as the abrupt end of the San Mateo formation at the fault line. It’s a hike and a geology lesson rolled into one!

Trail Details

Distance: 3.8 miles
Time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: ~300′
Dogs: No
Parking: $15

The bluffs along San Onofre State Beach are marked by six trails that lead from the parking areas down to the beach. Each trails is numbered 1-6 from north to south. Trail 6 is the last trailhead to the beach, and the area is famous for nude sunbathing. Despite signs warning that this is not permitted, it still goes on today.

For this trip, I took Trail 3 down to the beach, then worked my way north towards the Cristianitos fault. The composition of the beach changes over time. Sometimes it may be sand; other times covered in well-worn stones. This particular trip most of the beach was covered in stones, making walking more difficult.

Heading north along the beach was a slog through the large, loose stones. I almost wished I wore boots. As you can see in the next photo, the bluffs are constantly changing due to erosion, so stick to the marked trails where possible and be prepared for the unexpected… like this drop at the bottom of Trail 2:

As you continue north, keep your eyes open for the distinctive striated shale of the Monterey Formation.

At about the two mile mark, you reach a gap in the bluff that marks the Cristianitos Fault.

There is no signage, but you’ll see that the bluff to the north has a distinctive sand-colored band known as the San Mateo Formation. This band abruptly ends at the gap — marking the location of the Cristianitos Fault.

This light-colored band in this photo is that San Mateo Formation.

At north end of this band is a gap; this is the Cristianitos fault.

You can scramble up the hill (with caution) and actually touch the strike plate of the fault.

Geologists have determined the last activity of the fault by the layer of rubble immediately above the San Mateo formation, which has remained relatively undisturbed for about 120 thousand years. By definition, an “inactive” fault has had no major activity for 100 thousand years, so the Cristianitos fault clearly falls into the inactive category.

After visiting the fault, we retraced our steps south, taking Trail 1 up the bluff and following the bluff back to our car.

The Geology of the Cristianitos Fault Explained in Video

My friend John is a geologist by education, and graciously shared some insights into the Cristianitos fault in these videos.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

You can lengthen or shorten this loop by starting at a different trail. Trail 1 is the closest to the fault; Trail 6 is the furthest. The map below shows our route, which began at Trail 3.

Photo Gallery

Essential San Onofre State Beach Resources

• Official San Onofre State Beach website
• SoCal Hiker’s Inside San Onofre State Beach

I have fond memories walking along the beach in Carlsbad. My grandparents retired to Carlsbad, and I’ve been there first with them, and later with my own kids. South Carlsbad State Beach is a great stretch of bluff-lined beach that makes a beautiful place to amble about, exploring the beach, enjoying the sunshine and the ocean breezes. At low tide, the beach becomes a broad, almost level expanse of sand strewn with seaweed, sea shells, well worn beach stones and other treasures.

Trail Details

Distance: 4 miles
Time: 1-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 465 ft
Hours: 6am-11pm

From North Ponto, head south along the fence at the top of the bluff and enter the gate to the campground.

You’ll follow the paved road south until you reach the first beach access steps on your right.

Once you get to the beach, amble south toward the outlet of the Batiquitos Lagoon and South Ponto — the southern terminus of South Carlsbad State Beach. The bluffs are lined with campsites that are always full during the summer, but often open in the off season.

At low-tide, the beach here is broad and full of interesting things to see. You may run across people fishing, skin-diving, or beach combing. Because it’s nearly flat, I’ve seen a lot of runners on the beach.

When you reach the outlet of the Batiquitos Lagoon, turn around and head back. You can choose to walk through the campground along the top of the bluff, or back along the beach.

Camping at South Carlsbad State Beach

South Carlsbad State Beach also has a bluff-top campground with 222 campsites — half of which are right along the bluff with great ocean views. The campground is very nice, but extremely crowded during the summer. I’ve visited in December and seen just a smattering of campers. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Water and restroom facilities are nearby, and token-operated showers are available for a nominal fee.

The campground has a campfire center and store which are open seasonally (primarily the summer months).

South Carlsbad State Beach Trail Map

Photo Gallery

SoCal Hiker Tips

• Check the tide schedule. At high tide, the beach may be impassable.
• The campground has no day use facilities. Day use parking is available off Carlsbad Blvd at either the north or south end of the park.
• Grab lunch at my grandmother’s favorite spot, the Harbor Fish Cafe. It’s about a mile north of the beach on Carlsbad Blvd. just as you enter the downtown village. The patio has ocean views. Grandma’s favorite? The fish and chips.

Essential South Carlsbad State Beach Resources

• Official South Carlsbad State Beach website
• EveryTrail guide to South Carlsbad State Beach – Web, Android and iPhone-ready

This moderate 3 mile loop trail in Crystal Cove State Park used to be known as the Green Loop. Now maps at the visitor center don’t name it that, but color code it as blue to designate it as a moderate hike. This loop begins and ends at the El Moro Visitor Center. It travels across a variety of terrain and gives you a good feel for the interior of Crystal Cove State Park.

Trail Details

Distance: 2.9 miles
Time: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 550 ft
Dogs: No
Parking: $15

The hike begins by climbing up No Dogs to No Name Ridge. Just before the one mile marker, turn right and head down Poles — so named because it follows the line of power poles. This trail is steep and footing can be tricky with the loose gravel. In fact, trekking poles would actually be useful here.

At the bottom of Poles, head right down Lower Moro Canyon.

Stay on the main trail down through Lower Moro Canyon, turning right after you cross the footbridge. Climb up the hill back to the parking lot and the visitor center.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Click any thumbnail to view the full-screen gallery. You can leave comments on any photo, too.

Other Hikes in Crystal Cove

• Crystal Cove Blue Route
• Crystal Cove Red Route

Essential Crystal Cove State Park Resources

• Crystal Cove State Park – Official Site
• SoCal Hiker’s Inside Crystal Cove State Park
• Crystal Cove Interpretive Center
• Get the Parking Passport app to pay your day-use fees using your smartphone

Crystal Cove State Park is nestled in the coastal hills between Newport and Laguna Beach. This hiking trail traces the boundaries of the inland section of the park, climbing up and down ridge and valley through coastal scrub. I love this park, not only because it’s so well located for Orange County, but because you really do feel like you’ve been transported to another place and time. As you enter the wilderness here, you soon forget that you are only a mile away from a sea of suburban tract homes. A hike through Crystal Cove is like a mini-vacation from suburbia.

Trail Details

Distance: 9.1 miles
Time: 3-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,800 ft
Dogs: No
Hours: 6am-10pm daily
Parking: $15

This loop is sometimes referred to as the Perimeter of the Park hike. The trails form a loop surrounding the backcountry of Crystal Cove State Park, and provides a grand tour of its features.

The route begins at the top of the El Moro Visitor Center parking lot. Pass around the gate and head up the double-track trail known affectionately as No Dogs. (Odd only because dogs are not allowed on ANY of the trails in Crystal Cove’s backcountry). Note that the sign calls this No Name Ridge, but the maps all call it No Dogs here.

As you head up the ridge, you’ll come to a couple of junctions heading right at the power poles (the aptly named “Poles” trail). Stay left and continue up and down the roller coaster hills of No Name Ridge.

At mile 2.25 you will reach the junction with Ticketron. This single-track trail veers to the right, winding down to the Deer Canyon trail. Turn left at Deer Canyon, watching for the campground on your left.

The Deer Canyon campground is one of three backcountry campgrounds at Crystal Cove. All have picnic tables, but do not allow open flames. There are a few chemical toilets, but no water; if you want to camp here, you’ll have to backpack in with everything you need!

I wondered who would go backpacking so close to civilization, but a friend pointed out that the backcountry campgrounds at Crystal Cove makes a great location to do an equipment check. It’s close by, so you could even hike in on a Friday afternoon. And if things go awry, you’re not far from the comforts of civilization.

Follow the Deer Canyon trail all the way up to the back of the park, passing through the gate to the Bommer Ridge trail. Technically, Bommer Ridge is part of neighboring Laguna Wilderness, but this trail is preferable to the parallel Fences trail that gets a lot of mountain bikers.

At about mile 4.75 you’ll reach Moro Ridge. Turn right through the gate and follow this ridge back towards the coastline. Along the way, you’ll pass two campgrounds on your right (Upper and Lower El Moro).

This ridge gives you great views of the ocean, Moro Canyon to you right and Emerald Canyon to your left. If you’re alert, you may also see artifacts from the days when this land was used for cattle and sheep herding.

Eventually you’ll turn right on to the affectionately titled BFI (Big F-ing Incline) trail, descending to Moro Canyon and the final hill back to the visitor center.

Reward yourself with a milkshake at the Shake Shack about a mile north on Coast Highway.

Trail Map

Photo Gallery

Essential Crystal Cove State Park Resources

• Official Crystal Cove State Park website
• SoCal Hiker’s Inside Crystal Cove State Park
• Crystal Cove Interpretive Association
• You can pay your Crystal Cove day-use fees using the Passport Parking app after you safely park your vehicle. Complementary ParksWiFi is available to assist with processing your payment.
• Ruby’s Shake Shack

If there’s a full moon tonight (and there is) it must be time for a Boat Canyon night hike.

Boat Canyon is a terrific 8.2 mile hike in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, climbing up above Boat Canyon, dropping down to Laguna Canyon Road and climbing back up again before returning to the trailhead — it’s a serious workout! There are fantastic ocean views and it makes a fun hike to do in the evening with the trail lit by the full moon.

Trail Details

Distance: 8.2 miles
Time: ~3 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,769 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year round

Pass the gate and head up the hill on Boat Road. At the first junction, you can take a short detour to the left for panoramic views up and down the Orange County coastline, including Laguna Beach and Newport Coast. Backtrack to the junction and continue up Boat Road. The next junction comes at the ridge. You’ll turn left here and head down Bommer Ridge.

Take the steep Big Bend Trail (the first right) down almost all the way to Laguna Canyon Road. The trail is well marked to the left and the Big Bend parking area, but take the lesser traveled trail to the right. This trail parallels Laguna Canyon Road back towards the coast before finally turning back uphill on the steep Laguna Ridge Trail.

When you reach the top of the ridge, you’ll jog to the right about five yards and turn left on Boat Road, returning the way you came and completing the lollipop loop.

I’ve hiked this several times with a group during full moons, although officially the park closes at sundown. I don’t know of anyone who has received one, but you technically could get a citation for doing this after the park is closed. Consider yourself warned!

Tips for a Moonlight Hike

• Don’t go alone! There is safety in numbers. Go with others and stick together.
• Have the Ten Essentials, especially a flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries.
• Make sure someone knows where you will be, and when you expect to return.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Additional Resources

• Laguna Coast Wilderness trail map (1.2 MB PDF)
• GPS user? Download the GPX file
• 3D trail view in Google Earth

San Clemente’s Ridgeline Trail is a great little 4.7 mile out-and-back hike along a ridgeline above the city. The trail is suburban and paved, making it a great choice for rainy weather when you don’t want to slog through the mud but you still want to get your heart pumping. And the ocean and mountain views are terrific.

Trail Details

Distance: 4.7 miles
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,545 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year-round

Though it’s not a wildnerness trail, the Ridgeline Trail has a fair amount of roller-coaster hills, and a total elevation gain of 1,545 feet. Because it follows the ridgeline, you get great views in every direction. You can see Dana Point marina, Santiago and Modjeska peaks, and on clear days, Catalina and San Clemente islands.

There is one point along the path where you cross Calle del Cerro and jog about 30 yards uphill to the trail on the other side, but other than that, the path is clearly marked. The water tower is your turnaround point. Stretch, enjoy the coastal views, and head back to the beginning.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Photo Gallery

Additional Resources

• San Clemente Trail & Bike Ways Map (PDF)

The Colinas Bluff trail is a great mixed-use double-track trail that follows the Colinas ridge between Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano. It’s a suburban trail with terrific, sweeping 360 degree views from Santiago Peak (or the San Gabriel mountains, when it’s clear) to the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.

I like this trail because it’s convenient for after work conditioning hikes during daylight savings time. Because it’s an out-and-back route, you can adjust the length to suit the time and distance you want. The geography of the trail lends itself well to two variations: the full 6.7 mile hike and an abbreviated 4.6 miler.

The Trailhead

Trail Details

Distance: 4.5 – 6.7 miles
Time: ~1.5 – 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,570 ft (full version)
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year round

The trailhead begins across the street from the Marina Hills shopping center, at the corner of Marina Hills Drive and Golden Lantern in Laguna Niguel. I park in the shopping center and meet my hiking partners outside Starbucks. From there, you’ll cross Golden Lantern and head south about 50 yards, where the trail begins on your left.

Once you reach the ridge, the trail goes up and down a few smaller hills in roller coaster fashion. There is one fairly big hill at mile 2.3. The top of this hill gives you great 360 degree views, and marks the turnaround point for the abbreviated 4.6 mile version.

If you want to do the full 6.7 miles, you’ll continue down the other side of that big hill, where the trail skirts the behind the McMansions of Bear Brand. At 3.35 miles, you’ll reach the top of another hill with paved walks and benches facing every direction. This is your turnaround point for the full version.

Tips

• Bring water and sun protection.
• Trail runners are fine, though I’d recommend boots when it’s wet and muddy.
• There just so happens to be a Starbucks at that corner, with a nice big patio that makes a great meeting place before or after your hike.
• The trail is wide and well maintained, and shared by bikers, trail runners and dog walkers, so keep your eyes peeled. And I’ve heard that people have seen rattlesnakes here. I haven’t seen any, but I would watch where you step.
• Portions of the trail pass behind resident’s backyards; be mindful of your noise level if hiking in a group.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Download file: colinas-bluff.gpx

 

 

Have fun, be safe, and see you on the trail!

Photo Gallery

The San Clemente Beach Trail extends from the Metro Station parking lot at North Beach to Calafia State Beach in the south. It is basically a flat, fairly smooth crushed granite trail that’s shared by walkers, runners, bikers, dogs and strollers. Because it’s a flat out-and-back trail, you can make it as easy or challenging as you want. I like it because (for me) it’s nearby. I can walk to it from my home. There are restrooms and water located along the trail and food is available at the pier.

Trail Details

Distance: 4.6 miles
Time: ~1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 50 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year round

The first mile is wide and well-groomed crushed granite, with a raised boardwalk for a portion that provides great views of the beaches up and down the coast. You cross the railroad tracks at about mile .75. There are crossing gates to warn you when a train is coming.  Between the railroad crossing and the pier, the trail narrows considerably. You’ll need to hike in single file to pass the oncoming foot traffic.

Once you reach the pier the trail widens and continues along the ocean side of the tracks, crossing again near mile 1.25. The turnaround point comes at the Calafia State Beach parking lot (about mile 2.25). There are restrooms here, and a snack bar that’s open during the daytime and summer.

Need more of a challenge? Of course you can hike it faster (or even run it), but there are a couple alternatives that will help you break a sweat. Along the trail there are six beach access points with stairs or hills you can race up and down for extra cardio points. Or when the tide permits, you can kick off your shoes an do the entire distance walking on the beach. The softer the sand, the harder the workout!

Trailhead parking is available at the Metrolink parking lot. This lot has pay stations that take cash or credit cards, and parking costs $0.25 for 15 minutes. Parking is free after 6pm.

San Clemente Beach Trail Map

Done at a brisk pace (3.5 miles per hour) hiking the Las Ramblas trail makes a great early morning workout. There are some steep hills and sweeping vistas of the coastline from Dana Point to Oceanside, and Santiago Peak and the Santa Anas to the east. The trail follows dirt double track, but the junctions are not all well marked. You can hike this year-round, though avoid it in (and immediately after) heavy rain, unless you enjoy carrying an extra 10 pounds of mud on your shoes.

Trail Details

Distance: 3.4 miles
Time: ~1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 900 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Year round

This trail is shared by horses and mountain bikers, and dogs are okay. I have spotted deer, rattlesnakes and even one bobcat on previous hikes in these hills.

The best times to hike these hills are early morning and early evening, mainly because there is no shade and the views are all the more spectacular at sunrise and sunset.

Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Looking to hike this trail with others? There are two groups that post early morning 6am hikes on this trail pretty regularly, often on Tuesday and Thursday mornings: Crystal Cove Cardio and Hiking OC (both on Meetup.com). Both groups are free to join, and provide a great way to experience the trail for the first time.