Big Sycamore Canyon - Boney Loop

A strenuous but pleasant 12 mile loop through the low mountains and wide grasslands of the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area known as Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa. This hike features a seasonal waterfall, cabin ruins, and great spring wildflower blooms.

"Satwiwa" means "the bluffs" in the language of the Chumash, and it was the name of a village that once stood on the banks of a small stream in this corner of the Santa Monica Mountains. The property became part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in 1980; before that it was known as Rancho Sierra Vista, the name bestowed upon it by rancher Carl Beal, who had acquired it in 1937. It was originally part of the 48,672 acre Rancho El Conejo land grant deeded to former soldiers by the king of Spain.

Directions to Trailhead: From Highway 101/Ventura Freeway in Newbury Park, exit on Wendy Drive. Drive 2.5 miles south to Lynn Road and turn right. Continue a mile or so, then just past Reino Rd turn left on marked road (Via Goleta) into Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa Park. Follow the road for about .8 miles until it ends at a (usually locked) gate and park.

Click Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa (https://files.meetup.com/454296/satwiwa.pdf) for trail map and directions.

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks and a camera.