Part 4 of a 5-part hike from ONeill Park to Dana Point, this almost 8 mi, 1340 gain/loss loop gets a high-end moderate rating. Starting from Crown Valley, we follow the bluffs above the Arroyo, up and down, until we reach the highest point on Trabuco Ridge and a ramada. Although weve only done about 3 mi, this makes a good stopping point for a snack and great views. Now comes the fun: 2 long downhills: the first seriously steep, though the footing is excellent. Hiking poles will help your knees on both!!! As we near the I-5, well cross Trabuco Creek on a footbridge. Heading for home, well soon pass a petting farm with goats and come to a golf course. Somewhere around here may make another stopping point. Our route back through Arroyo proceeds steadilybut very gentlyuphill for 3+ miles until a short climb at the very end brings us back to our starting point and the possibility of a late-ish lunch (if you havent eaten it already!) at one of several eateries. Meet 8:30 am in the shopping center at Crown Valley and Cecil Pasture Rd. From the I-5 take Crown Valley east, cross the Arroyo, turn R on Cecil Pasture, L into parking lot. Bring 2 qts water, hiking shoes, poles, sun protection, and snack or lunch. Real rain up to 3 days before cancels. Ldrs: Ed and Helen Maurer, (949)357-9931.
27702 Crown Valley Pkwy Suite E-3, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694, USA
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