Hill Canyon Lollipop

Hill Canyon is part of a system of deeply eroded canyons, plateaus and ridgelines known as the Conejo Canyons Open Space. On clear days, trails in this area afford dramatic views of Ventura and the coastline, as well as inland to the Topa Topa mountains north of Ojai. This area also conserves a variety of habitats, including coast live oak woodlands, riparian habitats, interior sage scrub/chaparral, and coastal sage scrub.

Many of you have viewed Hill Canyon from Wildwood Park. Its the area to the west of Lizard Rock and the Hill Canyon Water Treatment Center.

The hike will be about 8 miles with moderate elevation gain. Some parts of the trails are a little overgrown due to lack of use, especially in the barranca. Long pants and long sleeves are recommended. Some of these trails still cannot be found in the hiking literature and remain hidden from the casual hiker. I have explored the area on three occasions (accompanied by Robin on one) and have put together this new hike.

Directions to trailhead

From the 101 Freeway exit Rancho Conejo Blvd. Turn north and make a left at the first light, Hillcrest Dr.

Turn left at W Hillcrest Dr 0.3 mi
Turn right at Lawrence Dr 0.8 mi
Turn left at Conejo Center Dr 0.7 mi

Park on the street among the truck trailers. Trailhead is on the west (left) side.

Bring 2 Qt water, lugsoles, snacks, sunscreen, hat