Towsley Canyon Loop
Details
We will be hiking this trail counterclockwise as a loop, exploring an incredible variety of sights, scents, and landscapes along the way. This route features unusual geologic formations, bubbling stream beds, natural tar pits, and diverse plant communities. The Tataviam people once used the naturally occurring asphalt here for healing and to seal their baskets.
Around mile 0.9, you will reach the Narrows, a slot-like canyon with dramatic, nearly vertical rock layers. After passing through the Narrows, the trail begins climbing the switchbacks of the Towsley Canyon Loop Trail. At the high point of approximately 2,450 feet, the route transitions into a steep, winding descent with breathtaking views of rolling hillsides and scenic canyons as you make your way into Wiley Canyon.
Please note that parts of the trail are currently overgrown, but the wildflowers are in bloom and adding to the beauty of the hike. Due to warmer temperatures, we will be getting an early start.
DETAILS:
· Hike leader volunteer(s): Michele
· Meet: Outer Towsley Park Parking Lot at 6:45 am, departure at 7:00 am sharp
(May 9).
· Distance: Approximately 5.5 miles.
· Elevation gain: 1,459 feet.
· Time: 2.5-3 hours hiking including a snack break.
· Conditioning: You need to be in general good physical condition.
· Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
· Restrooms – None.
· Adventure Pass – None Required.
IMPORTANT NOTES: We will maintain a brisk pace, so please plan to stay with the group for a safe, enjoyable outing. There will be stream crossings, exposures, bugs, or other warnings. As always, people may slip and fall, encounter poison oak, snakes, etc. on this hike. This event may be cancelled due to inclement weather before or at the start of the hike. Check the weather report and plan accordingly.
ESSENTIAL GEAR:
Hiking boots and poles.
Clothing layers are recommended.
Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets.
Hat and sunscreen.
Additional Hiking and Survival Gear Recommendations (link)
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3, Intermediate (see chart below).
THC HIKE RANKING SCALE:
1. Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3. Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5. Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION:
Towsley Park Parking Lot – We are meeting in outer parking lot, before you go into the gate.
24255 The Old Rd, Newhall, CA 91381
FILE DOWNLOADS
We highly recommend the AllTrails app be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to.
GPS Trail Map (link for downloadable mobile version)
We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via
cash contribution (at each hike).
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY - IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing The Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Hiking Club (THC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders, and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any The Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing The Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.