Los Angeles Trails
Skull Rock Topanga State Park Pacific Palisades - Skull Rock: trail description, GPS map, photos, and directions for a short trek to this head-shaped out cropping on Temescal Ridge in Topanga State Park
Skull Rock sits on the shoulders of Temescal Ridge north of Temescal Gateway Park, delivering broad views over Santa Monica Bay. The head-shaped sandstone formation can be reach as an extension of Temescal Canyon Loop, bringing the hike to 3.8 miles. Skull Rock can also be reached via trailheads further up Temescal Ridge. The nearest trailhead, located in the Palisades… Read more.
Pinnacles National Monument California
High Peaks Trail Pinnacles National Monument hikeThe High Peaks of Pinnacles National Monument are a one of a kind collection of sky-pointed spires that provide fascinating scenery and a robust hiking experience.  The adventurous hike across the top of the Pinnacles crosses a steep, narrow, and impressively constructed trail that is a highlight of any visit to the park.  The High Peaks can be reached from the east or west entrance (There are no roads traveling across Pinnacles National Monument).  The heart of the rugged park is only accessible on foot via a well-maintained network of trails.  There are a few routes to choose from incorporating the High Peaks.  One excellent option is a loop beginning on the east side of the park, which travels up High Peaks Trail, across the Pinnacles, and down Condor Gulch Trail.  There is 1,325 feet of elevation difference between the top and bottom of the six-mile loop trail.
The High Peaks of Pinnacles National Monument are a one of a kind collection of sky-pointed spires that provide fascinating scenery and a robust hiking experience. The adventurous hike across the top of the Pinnacles crosses a steep, narrow, and impressively constructed trail that is a highlight of any visit to the park. The High Peaks can be reached from the east or… Read more.
Central Coast California Trails
Bishop’s Peak, formally known as Bishop Peak, is the most sought after summit in San Luis Obispo.  Bishop Peak is the tallest of the Nine Sisters, the picturesque volcanic Morros stretching across San Luis Obispo. The iconic mountain has a rocky crown shaped like a bishop's miter, which provides panoramic views over the city and nearby peaks.   The single-track trail to the 1,559-foot summit is demanding and rewarding – an excellent hike.  From the trailhead at the top of Highland Drive to the summit is 3.5 miles round trip with 950 feet of elevation gain.
Bishop’s Peak, formally known as Bishop Peak, is the most sought after summit in San Luis Obispo. Bishop Peak is the tallest of the Nine Sisters, the picturesque volcanic Morros stretching across San Luis Obispo. The iconic mountain has a rocky crown shaped like a bishop's miter, which provides panoramic views over the city and nearby peaks. The single-track trail to the… Read more.
Joshua Tree Trails
Wonderland Wash Trail Joshua Tree
In between Barker Dam Trail and Wall Street Mill Trail is Wonderland Wash Trail, an unmaintained single track through the Wonderland of Rocks. This less-traveled trail passes monzogranite mounds that are a popular playground for rock climbers and bouldering enthusiasts. There is no defined end to the trail, but a hike to the prominent rock formation known as the Astro… Read more.
Joshua Tree Trails
Joshua Tree Barker Dam Hike joshua Tree National Park Trail desert reservoir dam look hike
Barker Dam Loop visits a small foreign-looking reservoir within the Wonderland of Rocks in Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers of all abilities will enjoy this level 1.5-mile hike. The water can all but disappear during the dry season, so make a point to visit this trail in the winter and spring.The well-marked loop is easy to follow and easy to hike. From the parking… Read more.
Los Angeles Trails
Calabasas Peak hike Red Rock Canyon Santa Monica Mountains Trail
Calabasas Peak offers panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains, Red Rock Canyon, and a sliver of the Pacific Ocean. To the north, the peak looks down on the city of Calabasas and a wide stretch of the San Fernando Valley. The 3.6-mile round-trip hike to Calabasas Peak travels an easy-to-follow fire road. There is 1,000 feet of elevation gain along the way, but that… Read more.
Los Angeles Trails
Red Rock Canyon
As the name implies, Red Rock Canyon is filled with impressive colorful sandstone. The red rocks stand out from their lush green surroundings to create a dramatic landscape. The canyon lies adjacent to Calabasas Peak, which can be visited in conjunction with the park to form an excellent excursion.The park’s “main” entrance is located at the end of Red Rock… Read more.
Joshua Tree Trails
Hidden Valley Joshua Tree
For an introduction to Joshua Tree plant and wildlife, and great opportunities for bouldering, visit Hidden Valley. Here a one mile loop circles the interior of this small valley surrounded by tall boulders.Take the path from the parking lot and pass between the rocks and into Hidden Valley. When the trail Ts, pick a direction and start along the loop. Signs along the… Read more.
Joshua Tree Trails
Indian Cove Joshua Tree National Park camping and hiking
Beyond its 101-site campground, Indian Cove offers a 0.6-mile long interpretive trail, a picnic area, and plenty of rocks for climbers. The picnic area serves as the starting point for an unmaintained trail up Rattlesnake Canyon. The rock formations around Indian Cove are perfect for bouldering, rock hopping, and more serious climbing. Have some fun in the sun and burn… Read more.
Los Angeles Trails
Malibu Creek state park
Between Rock Pool and Century Lake in Malibu Creek State Park lies a large C-shaped gorge that can be traversed by experienced hikers who are willing to get wet and engage in a bit of rock climbing. To get to Rock Pool, begin hiking west on Crags Road, the main trail through the park. A quarter mile west of the main parking lot, and just past a junction with Grassland… Read more.
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