Santa Paula Canyon to the Punchbowls

Saturday, September 15

Santa Paula Canyon to the Punchbowls

Distance: 8 miles with 1500' elevation gain

Difficulty: Moderate

Trail Use: Hikers, horses, dogs and mountain bikes

Hiking Time: 5 hours + 1 hour fun time

Trail Notes: This hike will lead you into a peaceful world of waterfalls, swimming holes, tranquil pools, and shaded woodlands but does see heavy use on weekends. You begin your hike at the entrance to St. Thomas College. Follow the signs and please stay on the road. After 0.5 miles you will begin your hike on the Santa Paula Canyon Trail. The trail will take you by Big Cone and Cross Camp. We will hike by many swimming holes and have great views into the gorge. The Punch Bowls are a lot of fun, bring a pair of water shoes and prepare to get wet. For those who would like a little more adventure I will lead a short hike up to the falls. Worth the effort but will require some minor rock climbing. Unfortunately the area has a lot of graffiti and trash left by irresponsible people. On our way out please bring a plastic bag and help pick up some trash.

Directions: Take the I-5 north and exit Newhall Ranch Rd (exit 172). Turn left onto CA-126. Drive 28 miles and exit on 10th/CA-150. Turn right onto 10th St. Go 0.5 miles and make a slight right onto Ojai Rd/CA-150. Follow the road to St. Thomas College and park off the road. It would be best to carpool from Towsley Canyon to reduce the amount of cars at the trailhead. Meet at Towsley Cyn outside the gate at 06:30 - 06:45. Or you can meet at the trailhead at 07:30.

Look for the American Flag to find your leader!

Leader: Dave Pulsifer

Rated: Moderate +++