Redwood grove in Carbon Canyon Park

Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Carbon Canyon Nature Trail

• Location: East of Brea, in north Orange County.  From highway 57 in Brea, take the Lambert Road exit and head east (left if you are coming from the north, right if from the south) for 2.8 miles.  On the way, Lambert becomes Carbon Canyon Road (highway 142).  Carbon Canyon Park is on the right.  Parking is $3 per vehicle on weekdays; $5 on weekends and $7 on holidays.  If you are coming from the east on highway 142, the park will be on the left, 7.6 miles from Chino Hills.  Once inside the park, take a left and drive to the end of the road.  The nature trail leaves from the southeast corner of the parking lot, near by the signed trail to Telegraph Canyon in Chino Hills State Park.
• Agency:  Carbon Canyon Regional Park
• Distance: 2 miles
• Elevation gain: 100 feet
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Suggested time: 1 hour
• Best season: Year round
• USGS topo map:  “Yorba Linda”
• Recommended gear: sun hat; sunblock
• Recommended guidebook: Afoot and Afield: Orange County
• More information: here
• Rating: 3

Pint-sized Carbon Canyon Regional Park is a good place to keep in mind during the summer months, when much of north Orange County is too hot for hiking.   The mile-long nature trail here is a good introduction to hiking for people who have wanted to get into it but don’t know where to start, and veteran hikers who use this park to access Chino Hills trail can use it as a warm-up.

The trail leave the parking lot, descends into Carbon Canyon and doubles back to the west, crossing the stream.  The nature trail parallels the athletic fields and the pond before reaching a junction.  Head left, and soon you arrive at a grove of coast redwoods.  Hard-core botanists might not like the presence of these non-native trees here, but they provide a taste of the Sierras–and the only real shade on the route.  (While exposed, the trail is short and level enough so that even on hot summer days, with adequate sunscreen and water, it’s easy to do.)

After relaxing in the shade of the redwoods, retrace your steps to the parking lot.  If the weather is cool enough, you can easily access to Telegraph Canyon in neighboring Chino Hills State Park.

Wildflowers in Elysian Park

On the Portola trail in Elysian Park

Elysian Park: Portola Trail from Park Row to Stadium Way

• Location: Corner of Park Row Drive and Grand View Drive in downtown L.A.  From the south, take I-5 to the Broadway exit.  Turn left, go 0.4 miles and turn right on Casanova St.  Make another quick right on Park Row Drive and go 0.3 miles.  Park on the street just above the intersection with Grand View Drive.  From the Valley, take I-5 to Broadway (follow the signs for the 110 freeway).  Turn right on Pasadena Ave, go 0.3 miles and turn right on Broadway.  Go 0.3 miles and turn right on Casanova St and take a right on Park Row.
• Agency:  City of Los Angeles
• Distance: 2.8 miles
• Elevation gain: 200 feet
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Suggested time: 1.5 hours
• Best season: Year round
• USGS topo map:  Los Angeles
• More information:  here; YELP reviews here; trail guide here
• Rating: 2

Salt Creek Beach

Old Saddleback from the Salt Creek Trail

Salt Creek Beach from Chapparosa Park

• Location: Chapparosa Park, 25191 Chapparosa Park Road, Laguna Niguel.  From I-5, take the Crown Valley Parkway exit.  Drive southwest for 0.2 miles and turn left on Cabot.  Drive 0.6 miles and turn right on Paseo de Colinas.  Drive 0.9 miles and turn left on Golden Lantern.  Drive 1.4 miles and turn right onto Chapparosa Park Road.  Drive 0.7 miles and park in the far lot, by the baseball field.
• Agency: City of Laguna Niguel; County of Orange
• Distance: 7.8 miles
• Elevation gain: 600 feet
• Difficulty Rating: PG
• Suggested time: 3.5 hours
• Best season: September – May
• Recomended gear: sunblock; sun hat
• USGS topo maps: San Juan Capistrano; Dana Point
• More information: Salt Creek Beach page here; Laguna Niguel trail page here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 3

If hiking on a paved bike path doesn’t bother you, this long trip to Salt Creek Beach can be an enjoyable hike with a lot of scenic variety. And even if hiking on a bike path isn’t your thing, this route can be a good one to keep in mind as a training trip for longer hikes, especially on hot days (such as those we’ve recently had). Although the trail is almost entirely exposed, its proximity to the coast usually keeps the temperatures moderate.

From the end of Chapparosa Community Park, pick up the bike path heading southwest into the Salt Creek Corridor. A dirt trail runs parallel to the bike path for the first leg of the trip, to Niguel Road. Although the signs of civilization are plenty, this part of the route is usually pleasantly quiet.

At 0.9 miles in, you cross under Niguel Road and continue south. Stay right at the first junction and left at the second (these are spurs that lead to Niguel Road) and make an ascent. This next portion of the hike suffers much more from road noise than the previous leg, but you also get some nice views of Old Saddleback and your first looks at the ocean.

At 2.1 miles, you cross under Camino del Avion, and pass by the golf course. After this pleasant but not very interesting stretch, you cross under Pacific Coast Highway. Follow the signs for the public trails to Salt Creek Beach. A concrete path parallels the beach, passes by Salt Creek Park and continues to the Niguel Marine Wildlife Refuge, tucked beneath some towering bluffs and the Ritz Carlton hotel. From here, you get great views of Dana Point to the south and the coastline up toward Newport to the north. This makes a good turnaround point, although the trail does continue south along the beach.

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

Bud Turner Trail at Laguna Lake

On the Juanita Cooke Greenbelt trail

Turner/Cooke Loop

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

Crossing Serrano Creek

Eucalyptus grove in Serrano Creek Park

Serrano Creek Park (Lake Forest)

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

Woodlands in the Linden Chandler Preserve

Linden H. Chandler Preserve

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

Wetlands in Harriet Wieder Park

Harriet Wieder Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View from the Vista Del Norte Trail

Ascending the Vista Del Norte Trail

Vista Del Norte Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the Elfin Forest Trail

Elfin Forest Nature Trail

• Location:   Lower San Antonio Fire Station, 3000 N. Mountain Ave, Upland.  From I-210, take the Mountain Ave. exit and head north for 4 miles.  (Note that Mountain Ave. makes a few turns on the way up, so be sure to follow the street signs.)  The fire station is on the right, shortly before Mountain Ave. becomes Shinn Road and meets Mt. Baldy Road.  A United States Forest Service adventure pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking. Click here to purchase.
• Agency:  Angeles National Forest/San Gabriel River Ranger District
• Distance: 0.9 miles
• Elevation gain: 200 feet
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty rating: G
• Best season: Year-round
• USGS topo map: Mt. Baldy
• More information: here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 3

This short trail takes in nice views of Mt. Baldy, San Antonio Canyon and the Inland Empire. Although it never really escapes the sights and sounds of nearby civilization, it is a nice introduction to the San Antonio Canyon area, and is conveniently located to many Inland Empire residents. It makes a fun outing with the kids on a weekend (although it does tend to get crowded), or a nice little evening hike after work; stretching your legs here surely beats sitting in traffic on the 210 Freeway.

From the parking area near the fire station, head up into the canyon. A somewhat obscure trail follows the canyon’s east wall (you’ll be climbing over rocks) before heading uphill, past the back side of the fire station and up to a viewing platform. Here, you can see Mt. Baldy to the north.

The trail continues, clinging to the side of the canyon, crossing a couple of bridges. There are also interpretive plaques describing the natural history of the area, including its recovery since the 2003 Padua Fire. Stay left at the split and continue along the trail, which continues east for a little ways before heading back. After a slight uphill grade, you descend back to the road on a few switchbacks, arriving at the fire station.

There’s plenty more to check out here; with caution, you can scramble up the rocks of the canyon, or you can walk along the fire road on the south side of the street. It’s also not far to Mt. Baldy Village and the many trails that branch off from there.

The Elfin Forest trail is also known as the Joatngna Trail, which means “Village at the Snowy Mountain.”

View from the top of the Coyote Hills Tree Park

On the trail in the tree park

West Coyote Hills Tree Park  (Fullerton)

• Location: Coyote Hills Drive and Vintage Way, Fullerton.  From the 91 Freeway, take the Beach exit (highway 39) and head north for 3 miles.  Turn right on Rosecrans, go 1.2 miles and turn left on Gilbert.  Make a quick right on Coyote Hills Drive, and go 0.6 miles to the corner of Vintage Way.  From the 57 Freeway, take the Imperial Highway exit and head west for 4.3 miles.  Turn left on Idaho, and go 1.2 miles (Idaho becomes Gilbert along the way).  Turn left on Castlewood, go 0.2 miles and turn right on Coyote Hills.  Go 0.3 miles to Vintage.
• Agency: City of Fullerton Parks and Recreation
• Distance: 0.5 miles
• Elevation gain: 100 feet
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Best season: Year-round
• USGS topo map: Anaheim
• More information: here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 2

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, West Coyote Hills Tree Park is a great little place for an urban oasis. While the larger nature reserve nearby is still entangled in a legal controversy as the public fights for access, hikers can enjoy a nice stroll before or after work, or even during their lunch break, on a half-mile loop through this park.

From the corner of Vintage Way, take the path into the park and turn left. You follow the wide fire road through a pleasant grove of trees, and then bear right and begin heading uphill. The trail leads to North Parks Road, but you can make your route a little more interesting by turning right on a rough, single-track trail that has been cut through the bushes. You zigzag up the side of the hill and meet another trail. Head right, and follow the upper rim of the hillside, under the shade of more trees.

This brings you to a wide fire road that descends at a surprisingly steep angle. You get nice views of the Fullerton area, and possibly farther beyond if the weather is clear, but take care as you make your way down. At the bottom, turn right to complete the loop.

Like Fullerton’s other trails and natural areas, the West Coyote Hills Park is a nice place to know about if you want to get outdoors. It’s also a good way to keep kids active during the summer.

View of the San Fernando Valley from the Saddletree Trail

View of the San Gabriels from the Saddletree Trail

 Stetson Ranch Park/Saddletree Trailhead

• Location: Sylmar.  From I-5, take I-210 east to the first exit, Yarnell.  Turn right onto Yarnell and make a quick left on Foothill.  Go 0.6 miles on Foothill, turn left on Glenoaks, go under the freeway and park by the signed trailhead on the left side of the road, before the entrance to the gated community.  From Pasadena and points east, take I-210 to Rexford.  Turn left on Rexford and make a quick right on Foothill.  Go 0.5 miles and turn right on Glenoaks, cross under the freeway and park by the trail head sign.
• Agency: City of Los Angeles/Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
• Distance: 2.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 400 feet
• Suggested time: 1 hour
• Difficulty rating: PG
• Best season:  October – June
• USGS topo map:
• Recommended gear: hiking poles; sun hat
• More information: here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 3

Start of the Saddletree Trail (Click pictures to see the full sized version)

The good news is that the Saddletree Trail Head and Stetson Ranch Park are very conveniently located to the northern San Fernando Valley, and on clear days, the views include the San Gabriels, the Verudgos, Hollywood Hills, Santa Monica and Santa Susana Mountains.  The bad news is that the trail never escapes the sights and sounds of civilization nearby, and that the same rains that clear the air also make conditions less than optimum.  Still, this trail is worth a visit if you’re in the area.

0:04 (Times are approximate) – If you are bringing kids, this is how you make sure they behave.

The first 0.2 miles follow a paved road that parallels I-210, which is about as inspiring as it sounds. (If the gate is open, you may be able to drive this stretch and park in the lot). At the parking lot, head right and uphill toward the mountains, passing by a fence and some equestrian rings. Turn left after the second, smaller ring, pass by it and then turn right on a dirt road. Almost immediately, look for a single-track trail heading off sharply to the left (0.4 miles from the start.)

0:08 – Turn right and head uphill past the equestrian arenas

You begin an ascent, taking in some nice views to the south, and soon you reach the official trailhead for the Marge Feinberg Rim of the Valley Trail, named for the woman who conceived it. As you make your way up along a ridge, overlooking a canyon, the noise from the freeway starts to fade away.

0:13 – Sharp left on the switchbacks

At 0.9 miles, you reach the top of the ridge, and the trail makes some switchbacks, descending to a paved road. You can explore farther along a series of service roads, but as of this writing, recent rains have made the conditions difficult. The prevalence of power lines also cuts down on the scenic appeal, although the view of the mountains to the north is impressive. Turning around here and returning by the same route provides a good workout that can be done in about an hour.

0:17 – Rim of the World Trail Head

Text and photography copyright 2012 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of

0:21 – View of the Verdugos and the Hollywood Hills

hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this

0:30 – Dirt road marking the turnaround point

trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Looking up from the bottom of the dune

Heading back down the stairs into the park

Sand Dune Park (Manhattan Beach)

• Location: 33rd St. and Bell Avenue, Manhattan Beach.  From the 405 Freeway, take the Rosecrans Avenue exit and head west for 2.5 miles.  Turn left on Bell Avenue and drive 0.2 miles to the park entrance.  From the 105 Freeway, take the Sepulveda/Highway 1 South exit.  Head south for 2.4 miles, turn right on Rosecrans, go 0.9 miles and turn left on Bell Avenue, and drive 0.2 miles to the park.   To visit Sand Dune Park, you need to make a reservation online and pay a dollar bill (coins not accepted, change from larger bills not given.)
• Agency: City of Manhattan Beach
  
• Distance: 0.4 miles
• Elevation gain: 250 feet
• Difficulty Rating: PG
• Suggested time: 45 minutes
• Best season: Year-round
• USGS topo map: Venice
• More information: here; Yelp page here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 2

0:00 – Bottom of the stairs and the sand dune (click thumbnails to see the full sized version)

Hiking purists may not be impressed with it, but the giant sand dune in Manhattan Beach has to be considered one of So-Cal’s more unusual outdoor recreation spots. According to an L.A. Times article, the dune is not only popular with locals, but has also been visited by a wide range of athletes, including Kobe Bryant and Troy Palomalu. It seems as if climbing what basically amounts to an enormous sandbox should be easy–but it’s tougher than it sounds.

0:01 – Beginning the climb (times are approximate)

Rising nearly 100 feet, the dune is the dominant feature of the park. Using it requires making an online reservation (see link above). It may seem like a lot of hoops to jump through for a neighborhood hike, but I made my reservation in less than ten minutes.

0:10 – Top of the dune

After paying your $1 fee (dollar bills only) at a table by the base of the dune, you enter through a fence and begin your climb. If you’re not used to walking in sand–especially at a nearly 45 degree angle–expect progress to be slow. Even veterans will feel the burn in their calves by the time they reach the top.

0:20 – Walking up the stairs next to the dune

At the top of the dune, you get a nice view to the east of residential Manhattan Beach. The descent is fun – while the grade would be very steep for a single-track hiking trail, the sand slows you down, so you don’t have to worry about falling. And even if you fell, it would be on…well, sand.

0:23 – Walkway at the top of the stairs, heading south toward 30th St.

At the bottom, you can challenge yourself with multiple “reps” on the dune, or you can explore the rest of the park. A staircase runs parallel to the dune, climbing to the end of 32nd St. Turn left and follow a narrow walkway for a few blocks, re-entering the park at the end of 30th St. Head down a staircase through a pleasantly wooded hillside before meeting with another walkway. Turn left and follow the path back to the staircase, where you descend to the park. If you have time and energy, you can try the sand dune again.

0:25 – Heading back down into the park

Text and photography copyright 2013 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

0:30 – Following the walkway back to the stairs

Deer on the hill across from the Thompson Creek Trail

Foliage and mountains, Thompson Creek Trail

Thompson Creek Trail (Claremont)

• Location: Claremont.  From I-210, take the Towne Ave. exit and head north (left if you’re coming from the west, right if from the east.)   Cross Base Line Road and follow Towne for a short distance.  Park in the dirt turnout on the left side of the road, before the church entrance.  Look for the signed trail, heading right, following the concrete drainage channel.
• Agency: City of Claremont
• Distance: 4.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 350 feet
• Difficulty Rating: PG
• Suggested time: 2 hours
• Best season: Year round
• USGS topo map: “Mt. Baldy”
• Recommended guidebook: Afoot and Afield: Inland Empire
• More information: Yelp page here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 2

Veteran hikers might not get too excited about a paved path that parallels a concrete channel, but the popular Thompson Creek Trail is worth a visit if you’re in the area. Inland Empire and San Gabriel hikers might want to keep it in mind during the hot summer months; area residents who want to get out into nature but are a little intimidated by the tall San Gabriels might well also find the Thompson Creek Trail a worthwhile destination. The trail is popular with bikers, joggers and dog walkers, so expect a lot of company.

0:00 – The trail at Towne Avenue’s north end (click thumbnails to see the full sized version)

From the parking area at the end of Towne Avenue, turn right at the gate and begin your walk. The trail passes Mountain Avenue at 0.5 miles, and soon afterward comes to Higginbotham Park, where there are restrooms. Across the channel from the park, the Sycamore Canyon area is currently being refurbished, and will hopefully soon become accessible.

0:18 – Higginbotham Park (times are approximate)

At just over a mile, the trail bends slightly and starts heading northwest. Your view is livened up by bright red toyon berry bushes, and you’ll get glimpses of the Ontario/Cucamonga Ridge between the tall eucalyptus trees lining the path. At 1.6 miles, you cross Pomello Drive and enter a flood plain, with the mountains prominently off to the left and straight ahead.

0:45 – Nearing the upper end of the Thompson Creek Trail

The trail ends at Mills Avenue (2.1 miles). If you have time, you can head north on Mills and explore the Claremont Hills Wilderness Area.

1:00 – End of the trail at Mills Avenue

Text and photography copyright 2013 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Open space in Mason Regional Park

Shade trees in Mason Regional Park

Mason Regional Park

• Location: Irvine.  Free parking is available on the corner of Rosa Drew Drive and Tamarack Way.  From I-405, take the Jeffrey Rd./Unviersity Dr. exit.  Head west (left if you’re coming from the south, right if from the north) and go 0.7 miles to Rosa Drew Drive.  Turn right, go a short distance and park where available.
• Agency:  Orange County Parks & Recreation
• Distance: 2.8 miles
• Elevation gain: Level
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Suggested time: 1.5 hours
• Best season:  Year round
• USGS topo map: “Tustin”
• More information:  Mason Park homepage here; Yelp page here; park descriptions here and here; Everytrail report here
  
• Rating: 2

The eastern part of William Mason Regional Park is known as the “Wilderness Area”, which may be a little generous (the majority of the trails are paved), but it’s still a nice and convenient place to get some fresh air and exercise.  Though some traffic noise can be heard, this section of the park has a pleasantly secluded feel. Dogs are allowed with a 6-foot leash.

0:00 – Beginning of the hike on Rosa Drew Drive (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

From the parking area on the east side of Rosa Drew Drive, cross the street and head south. Cross University, continue south and make a hard right on a paved walkway leading into the park. You cross a seasonal stream and head west on the path. Signed as the Sand Canyon Wash on park maps, this is the main artery through the wilderness area.

0:03 – Turn right into the park (times are approximate)

A few benches make for a nice place to sit and there’s a decent amount of shade from the willows. At 0.7 miles you reach a junction. The two paths soon rejoin but the left route, which briefly leaves the pavement, is more pleasant. If you go this way take an almost immediate right and continue walking on the trail before rejoining the paved walkway (0.9 miles.)

0:14 – Bear left onto the dirt trail

Soon after the paths converge, you reach an intersection. You can extend the hike by heading left but for this route, head right, continuing west. Stay straight at another intersection (the right route is a spur to University Drive). You make another stream crossing and travel in and out of shade.

0:21 – Turn right at the junction

At 1.3 miles, you reach a final junction, shortly before Culver Drive. Both routes lead a short distance to Culver, a good turnaround point. However, if you want to extend your hike, you can cross Culver Drive and walk through the more developed part of Mason Regional Park; this might be a fun option for families with small kids.

0:32 – Turnaround point (Culver Drive)

Text and photography copyright 2013 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Geology in Camarillo Grove Park

Prickly pear in Camarillo Grove Park

Camarillo Grove Community Park

• Location: Camarillo.  From Highway 101, take the the Camarillo Springs Road exit.  Head east (turn left if you’re coming from Ventura or right if from L.A.) and drive 0.8 miles to the park’s entrance.  Entrance fees are $2 per vehicle on weekdays, $5 on weekends and $8 on holidays.   Drive to the back of the lot and park in front of the fence near the beginning of the trail.
• Agency:  Pleasant Valley Recreation & Parks District
  
• Distance: 0.6 miles
• Elevation gain: 200 feet
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season:  Year round
• USGS topo map: Newburry Park
• More information: Trip report here; park website here; Everytrail report here; Yelp page here
• Rating: 3

0:00 – Trail head (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

Nestled beneath the 101 Freeway as it descends from Thousand Oaks to the Ventura coastal plain, Camarillo Grove is a popular dog park that also features a short nature trail.   Though it suffers from graffiti and nearby traffic noise, the trail is still a nice place to stretch your legs if you’re traveling on Highway 101. Though the trail is certainly not difficult, there are a few steep, loose spots where parents with small kids should be careful.

0:02 – Junction at the beginning of the loop (times are approximate)

From the back of the parking area, start hiking uphill on the signed trail. A short walk brings you to a junction. You can hike the loop in either direction but to get the majority of the climbing out of the way quickly, head left. You make your way up the side of the hill, passing some interpretive signs describing the local plants including  fennel, California buckwheat, purple sage, prickly pear cacti and poison oak.

0:09 – Sharp right turn at the top of the hill, descending into the canyon

At a quarter of a mile, you reach the top of the switchbacks, where you get a nice view of the western Santa Monica Mountains. Look for an obscure trail heading off sharply to the right and downhill. You drop into the canyon, reaching another junction at 0.4 miles. Head right, passing by some interesting geological formations in the bottom of the canyon. A gentle ascent of about 50 feet brings you to the beginning of the loop. Turn left and follow the spur back downhill to your car.

0:14 – Trail junction at the bottom of the canyon (head right)

Text and photography copyright 2013 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

0:18 – Completing the loop (turn left and head back to the parking lot)

Franklin Creek, Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park

Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park

• Location: Carpinteria, on the corner of Ash Avenue and Sandyland Road.  From Ventura/L.A., take Highway 101 to the Casitas Pass Road exit.  Turn left on Casitas Pass Road and go 0.2 miles to Carpinteria Avenue.  Turn right and go 0.3 miles to Linden Avenue.  Turn left and go 0.5 miles to Sandyland Road.  Turn right and go 0.3 miles and park where available on the corner of Ash and Sandyland. From Santa Barbara, take Highway 101 to the Linden Avenue exit.  Turn right and go 0.6 miles to Sandyland Road.  Turn right and follow Sandyland to the corner of Ash and park where available.
• Agency: City of Carpinteria
• Distance: 1 mile
• Elevation gain: Level
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty rating: G
• Best season: Year round
• USGS topo map: Carpinteria
• More information: Trip descriptions here and here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 1

0:00 – Carpinteria Salt Marsh trail head (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

This short nature trail visits some coastal wetlands near downtown Carpinteria, providing nice views of the surrounding mountains and a good opportunity to see migratory waterfowl including herons, egrets and terns.  You also might see hummingbirds, wrens and goldfinches.  To be sure the trail’s purpose is primarily educational; don’t expect much in the way of solitude or physical challenge.  If you’re driving on Highway 101 the park is a nice place to stop to stretch your legs, located less than a mile from the freeway.  Scenic downtown Carpinteria also invites exploration before or after your visit here.

0:06 – View of the wetlands shortly after leaving Ash Avenue (times are approximate)

From the corner of Ash and Sandyland, enter the preserve and stop by an observation deck where interpretive plaques describe the ecology and geology of the area. The trail bends right and parallels Ash Avenue for 0.2 miles before bending left and heading northwest. (A short loop branches off, leading to an amphitheater where you can get some more views of the wetlands.)

0:11 – View of the mountains after crossing Franklin Creek

At 0.3 miles you reach a T-junction. Turn left (the right fork heads toward a mobile home park) and cross Franklin Canyon on a footbridge. On the opposite side, continue following the trail, first northeast and then northwest toward Sunnyland Cove Road. Just before you reach it, bear left at a fork and follow the boardwalk to a clearing where you can sit on some rocks and look out over the marsh. This is the turnaround point.

0:15 – View from the turnaround point

Text and photography copyright 2014 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Looking northeast from Tarantula Hill

 Tarantula Hill (Thousand Oaks)

• Location: Thousand Oaks.  From Highway 101, take the Lynn Road exit.  Head north (turn left if you’re coming from the west; right if from the east) and go 0.8 miles to Gainsborough Road.  The trail head is a small dirt turnout on the left side of the road in 0.7 miles, shortly past the Conejo Valley Botanic Gardens.  From Highway 23, take the Janss Road exit.  Turn right and go 0.6 miles to Moorpark Road.  Turn left and go 0.4 miles to Gainsborough Road.  Turn right and go 0.8 miles to the trailhead.  If you see the Conejo Valley Botanic Gardens, you’ve come too far.
• Agency:  City of Thousand Oaks/Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency
• Distance: 1 mile
• Elevation gain: 250 feet
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season:  Year round
• USGS topo map: Newbury Park
• More information: Trip description here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 3

Known also as Dawn’s Peak, pyramid-like Tarantula Hill towers above the surrounding areas.  A short but steep hike up a paved trail (closed to vehicles) yields panoramic views of the area, including a nearly aerial perspective on Gainsborough Rd.

0:00 – Trail head on Gainsborough Road (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

From the signed trailhead on the west side of the street, begin your climb, passing by a few oaks and clusters of cacti. The grade is mellow at first but soon becomes fairly steep, gaining almost 200 feet in about a third of a mile.

The trail curves around the north side of the mountain, passing by a rope tied between two metal posts. You get aerial view of Redwood Middle School to the north and Madrona Elementary to the west. Curling around to the east side of the hill, you can see Boney Mountain and the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains.

0:10 – Looking north about 2/3 of the way up (times are approximate)

At half a mile, the road ends at the summit. Much of the summit is fenced off, but you can still sit on the side of the hill and enjoy a view of the area before heading back down (the bench that appears in some photos of Tarantula Hill is no longer there.)  In case you were wondering, Tarantula Hill is in fact named for the spider, which according to the city website, is commonly found in the area.

0:15 – Looking southeast toward the Santa Monica Mountains from Tarantula Hill

Text and photography copyright 2014 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Guajome Lake

Sunset, Guajome Regional Park

Guajome Regional Park

• Location: Oceanside.  From I-5, take Highway 76 east for 7.2 miles.  Turn right into the park and turn right into the day use area.  From I-15, take Highway 76 west for 9.8 miles to the signed park entrance.  Turn left into the park and turn right into the day use area.  The fee is $3 per vehicle.
• Agency: County of San Diego
• Distance: 2.3 miles
• Elevation gain: 100 feet
• Suggested time: 1 hour
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season:  All year
• USGS topo map: San Luis Rey
• Recommended guidebook: Afoot and Afield: San Diego County
• More information: Park homepage here; Yelp page here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 3

0:00 – Start of the hike by the day use parking area (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

If you don’t mind noise from nearby streets and having a lot of company on the trails, popular Guajome Regional Park is an enjoyable place to get some fresh air and see wetlands that aren’t common in the San Diego area.  Spring-fed Guajome Lake dominates the northern end of the park; smaller Upper Pond is on the southern corner.  There are several trails and paved roads throughout the park thus numerous different routes are possible; hiking from one lake to the other and back is a pleasant walk that can be done in an hour or so.

0:09 – Footbridge leading away from the lake toward the marsh (times are approximate)

From the picnic tables beside the day use parking area, look for a trail beaten into the hillside heading down to the lake. Turn left and follow a wide dirt path around the permiter of Guajome Lake, passing a few picnic tables. Breaks in the vegetation provide glimpses of the lake. At 0.3 miles, you cross a footbridge and reach a junction. Turn left and cross another footbridge, this time entering a marshy area full of cattails. You enter an attractive woodland of coastal live oaks and red willows; while car noise is still audible this part of the hike feels more secluded.

0:13 – Woodlands on the Nature Trail

At 0.7 miles, you reach a T-junction. You can cut the trip short by turning left but to explore more of the park, turn right and follow the path to a picnic area (0.9 miles.) Bear left and follow the Luiseno Trail through a meadow, passing by an interesting sandstone outcrop.

0:22 – Start of the Luiseno Trail near the picnic area

You reach a junction at 1.3 miles where a short but steep trail on the right brings you to the upper pond and a four-way junction. The right and middle forks form a small loop around the pond. The left fork is your return route, which reaches a Y-fork at 1.8 miles. Turn right and follow the trail to a service road (2 miles.) Turn left and follow the road through the campground and back to the day use area.

0:30 – Geology on the Luiseno Trail

Text and photography copyright 2014 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

0:35 – Upper Pond

Trail through the eucalyptus trees in Hosp Grove

Hosp Grove Park

• Location: Carlsbad, near the intersection of I-5 and Highway 78, San Diego County.  From I-5, take the Las Flores Drive exit.  Turn left if you’re coming from San Diego or right if you’re coming from Orange County and follow the road to Jefferson St.  Turn right on Jefferson and follow it 0.7 miles to the park entrance on the right.  From San Marcos/Escondido, take Highway 78 west to Jefferson St.  Turn left on Jefferson, follow it 0.3 miles and turn right to stay on Jefferson.  The park entrance is on the left in 0.1 miles.
• Agency: City of Carlsbad
• Distance: 0.9 miles
• Elevation gain: 100 feet
• Suggested time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season: All year
• USGS topo map: Del Mar
• Recommended guidebook: Afoot and Afield San Diego County
• More information: Park information here; Trip Advisor page here; Everytrail report here
• Rating: 2
  

0:00 – Hosp Grove trail head (click thumbnails to see the full sized version)

Purists might not be impressed with this short loop, which never really escapes the noise of the nearby streets–or perhaps put off by the presence of non-native eucalyptus trees–but most people would probably prefer to see this land in north San Diego County used as a public recreation spot than for retail or residential development.

There are a number of trails, both official and non-official, that run through the park.  It’s a pleasant place to take a stroll, by yourself, with friends, kids or a dog, without having to stick to a specific route.  The route described in “Afoot and Afield” is a good one to follow if you’re short on time and are looking for a quick way to get some exercise.

0:02 – Right turn past the playground at the beginning of the loop (times are approximate)

From the parking area, follow the signed trail at the east end of the parking lot.  A trail branches off left toward the Buena Vista Lagoon; stay right, pass the playground and  turn right again at a T-junction (the left route is your return.)  At the third intersection, head left, although you can explore the right fork which dead-ends if you have time.

0:04 – Left turn and ascent

The trail climbs–the only significant ascent on the route–through the eucalyptus grove.  You pass a few informal fire breaks and reach a Y-junction a little less than half a mile from the start.  Again if you have time, you can explore the right fork, which dead-ends in a residential neighborhood.  For this route, follow the left fork downhill and make a hairpin turn.  You return along on Monroe and Marron Streets, reaching the junction by the playground.

0:15 – Returning to the park

Text and photography copyright 2014 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities.  By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail.  Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.

Wetlands in the south end of the park

California Golden Poppies, Dominguez Gap Wetlands

Dominguez Gap Wetlands (Long Beach)

• Location: Del Mar Avenue and Virginia Vista Court, Bixby Knolls neighborhood of Long Beach.  From the 405 Freeway, take the Long Beach Blvd. exit and head north for 0.2 miles.  Turn left on 36th St., go 0.3 miles and bear right on Country Club.  Go 0.3 miles and turn left on Los Cerritos Park Place.  Follow it past the side of the park to a T-junction and turn right on Del Mar.  The entrance (unmarked, just a gap in the fence) to the wetlands will be on the left in half a mile, just before Virginia Vista (a private road).  Park on the street for free, keeping in mind posted restrictions about time and days.
• Agency: Los Angeles County Department of Public Works
• Distance: 2.3 miles
• Elevation gain: Level
• Suggested time: 1 hour
• Difficulty Rating: G
• Best season:  All year
• USGS topo map: Long Beach
• More information: Park description here; Everytrail report here; Yelp page here
• Rating: 1

0:00 – Entrance to the park on Del Mar Avenue (click thumbnails to see the full sized versions)

Most hikers probably won’t drive too far to visit the Dominguez Gap Wetlands, but for residents of Long Beach – the Bixby Knolls area in particular – this pleasant little pocket of open space is an enjoyable place to explore.  The park occupies a thin corridor between the 710 Freeway and the Virginia Country Club.  In addition to the attractive pools of water, this spot is a good one for birdwatching.  Ducks, blackbirds, hawks and cormorants are among the fowl that might be seen here. From Del Mar Avenue, enter the park through a gap in the chain linked fence.  Follow a wide walkway a short distance to the beginning of the loop.  There are a few benches beneath a shade structure and interpretive plaques describing the restoration process of the wetlands.

0:05 – Interpretive plaque beneath the shade shelter (times are approximate)

The loop can be hiked in either direction.  To go clockwise, look for a dirt walkway descending slightly (as opposed to the spur leading to the paved bike trail).  The opposite end of the loop branches off on the right in a similar manner; use this if you would prefer to hike counter-clockwise.

0:12 – Indian Paintbrush on the west trail

The trail borders the wetlands, briefly sharing a portion of the bike path, crossing under a railroad bridge before finally reaching a turnaround point at Del Amo Blvd (about 1.2 miles from the starting point).  Along the way keep an eye out for plant life including California Golden Poppies and Indian Paintbrush as well as the diverse array of birds (possibly rabbits too).  Once you reach Del Amo, turn around and follow the opposite side of the loop back to Del Mar Avenue.

0:27 – Looking back from just before Del Amo

Text and photography copyright 2014 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.