Hiking Temescal Canyon loop

November 9, 5:29 PMLA Outdoor Recreation ExaminerSeth Smigelski

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Temescal Ridge Trail

The 2.6-mile Temescal Canyon loop offers a variety of scenery and decent exercise, despite its relative brevity. The convenient urban location, just off Sunset Blvd in the Pacific Palisades, also contributes to the popularity of this hike.

• More photos of Temescal Canyon

Start by crossing the string of parking lots at the base of Temescal Gateway Park. Just past the bathrooms and general store, take the mulch road to the left following signs for the Ridge Trail. After a few hundred feet, take the stairs breaking off to the left. A mileage sign here marks the beginning of the Ridge Trail.

So too starts a 1,000-foot climb to the top of the ridge, providing a better workout than one would expect, demanding a mile of sustained effort. Chaparral arches over much of the trail, but there are also nice views of Palisade's neighborhoods and the Pacific Ocean.

The top of the ridge

Follow the ridgeback heading northwest past two connection trails to Bienveneda Ave before coming to a junction with the Skull Rock Trail. This ½ side-trek dead-ends at rock formation with facial resemblance.

From the junction, the Ridge Trail turns down the canyon passing through more chaparral and heavier vegetation. Upon reaching the canyon floor, cross over a wooden bridge that lies just downstream of a small season waterfall.

The bridge across Temescal Creek

From here, take the Canyon Trail to return to the parking lot. After a gradual descent over somewhat slippery gravel, the last half-mile of the Canyon Trail is quite flat. The bottom of the canyon offers an easy stroll through pleasant groves. Keep the creek to your right, staying on the trail as it passes fields, cabins and cabins on the way to the parking lot. Those not interested in the climb up the Ridge Trail, can enjoy a relaxing out-and-back along the Canyon Trail instead.

Beyond the loop, Temescal Gateway Park offers access to the far-reaching network of trails in Topanga State Park. Local Hikes offers a topographical map of the trail.

To get to the trailhead: Temescal Gateway Park is located at the end of Temescal Canyon Road at the intersection with Sunset Blvd, one mile from the PCH north of Santa Monica. Free parking can be found along Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Blvd. Parking inside the park is $7. Those who park in the lot should exercise caution passing through the intersection with the camera that issues tickets to those who do not come to a full stop.

If no parking can be found, or if you are looking for another good outing in the area, consider hiking to Parker Mesa Overlook from Los Liones Drive, two miles west on Sunset Blvd.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

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