Newer Trail Series: 4. New Millennium Historic Loop in Calabasas

Most of the trails in the Santa Monica Mountains have existed for decades, but there are some trails that have been built more recently. This series of hikes will explore some of our newer trails.

The New Millennium Loop Trail was constructed as a condition for building the exclusive gated community at the west end of Calabasas Parkway, The Oaks. The trail was begun in 2004 and completed in 2007. There is only one access point to the trail system from The Oaks, and three from the outside, but none from the east or south sides.

The trail system consists of two connected loops: the longer New Millennium Loop and the shorter Historic Loop. We'll be hiking the Historic Loop, with a side trip for 1.5 miles along the longer loop (photo) that will get us to the top of the "Too Tight Switchbacks" that overlook the Calabasas County Club.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/4/b/7/600_432613495.jpeg

The Historic Loop has one section in a swamp. Over the years, a number of trees have collapsed, making the trail very hard to follow. Last year, a new trail was roughed out that bypasses the swamp and more work will be done on it a week after our hike, so we'll get a chance to see a trail in development!

Hike Stats: The hike will be 7.6 miles with 1750' of climbing total.

Pace: We'll hike at a moderate pace so there will be time to take photos. We'll need to hike together as a group so that nobody gets lost by taking a wrong turn at one of the several forks we'll pass.

Driving Directions: From Agoura Hills and points west - Drive east on the 101 Freeway, exiting at Las Virgenes Rd. At the end of the off-ramp, drive across Las Virgenes Rd and park in the dirt lot next to the gas station. From Calabasas and points east, Drive west on the 101 Freeway, exiting at Las Virgenes Rd. Cross back over the freeway and turn left into the dirt parking lot, just before the gas station.

Map: Use this Google Map to help you find your way

http://tinyurl.com/4mes6sa

Dogs: Please leave your pets at home for this hike. Dogs should only accompany their human companions on hikes that are billed as “Dog Friendly.”