Saddle Peak Loop

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/b/4/f/event_34187951.jpeg During the summer months, we'll want a hike that will give us some relief from the hot sun, and this hike should do it! Most of the trail is shaded by an oak canopy or tall chaparral. In addition, we'll be on the north side of the ridge, in the shadow of Saddle Peak.

Not only will we have protection from the sun, we'll see some fantastic views and rock formations. As we climb the Stunt High Trail and then Saddle Peak Trail, we'll have increasingly expansive views of Calabasas Peak to the south and Topanga Ridge (a favorite hike for many) to the east. Eventually we'll be hiking among the gigantic boulders of Saddle Peak where we'll likely pause for a snack and to admire the surroundings.

On the way down, we'll take the shaded and serene Cold Creek Canyon Trail though the Cold Creek Preserve.

Statistics: The distance will be about 6.7 miles, with about 1750 feet of climbing.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/7/d/event_34189021.jpeg Directions: From Agoura and points west, turn south on Lost Hills Parkway from the 101 Freeway in Agoura. Drive 1.1 miles and turn right onto Las Virgenes Rd at the T-junction. Continue 1.6 miles, then turn left onto Mulholland Hwy. Drive for 4.0 miles, then turn right onto Stunt Rd. The trailhead is 1.0 miles along where Calabasas Peak Mtwy comes down from the left. You can park on either side of the road.

From the Valley & West LA: Take the 101 Freeway, exit Valley Circle/Mulholland Drive and go south on Mulholland for ½ mile, turn right on to Valmar Road which becomes Old Topanga Canyon Rd. Take a right on Mulholland Hwy and continue for about 3 miles and turn left onto Stunt Road. Continue up Stunt Road for 1 mile to the Calabasas Peak Motorway (on the left). You can park on either side of the road.

Map: http://tinyurl.com/3n8t7ny