Not So Casual Hikes Orange County

Get a sneak peek here: Bell Canyon, Oso, East Ridge, Quail Run at Caspers Wilderness Park.

***This hike is not recommended for beginners. It requires solid physical fitness, prior hiking experience, and the ability to handle challenging terrain. We strongly advise participation only if you meet these criteria.

Join us for a scenic and moderately challenging ~10-mile hike at Caspers Wilderness Park, where we’ll explore a beautiful mix of canyon paths, panoramic ridgelines, and open grasslands. We’ll be doing Bell Canyon to Oso as an out-and-back route, which offers a mix of gradual climbs, rolling terrain, and peaceful canyon scenery. Expect steady elevation, mostly shaded stretches through the canyon, and open views as we approach Oso. It’s a scenic and moderately challenging route with a strong payoff in both effort and views.

Location: Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Meeting Place: We'll meet at the Bell Canyon Trailhead (Gate 18), located at the dead end of Caspers Park Rd, where the trail begins. Look for the group gathering near the Gate 18 sign.
Park Map

Parking: $5 on Sundays. OC Parks annual passes are also accepted.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance/Elevation: Approximately 10 miles; ~1600 feet (cumulative gain, accounting for both ascents and descents along the route).

Essentials:
· Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Hiking poles (optional but recommended for steep sections)
· Water
· Snacks/energy bars
· Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
· A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Route Details:

• Start at the Bell Canyon Trailhead (Gate 18)
• Follow Bell Canyon Trail through the shaded canyon
• Ascend Oso Trail
• Turn around near the 5-mile mark
• Return to the starting point at Bell Canyon Trailhead

📍 Route Map (AllTrails):
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/bell-canyon-to-oso-out-and-back-79fde54?u=i&sh=pxabuh

Click the link above to view the full route map, elevation profile, and trail details. You can view the route in the AllTrails app. If you have AllTrails+(Pro), you can also download it for offline use on the trail.

Note: DOGS are not allowed, so please leave pets at home.

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Tags: #Hiking #OutdoorAdventure #OrangeCountyHikes

Get a sneak peek here: Dreaded Hill + Billy Goat

Start your 4th of July with purpose. This short but powerful loop features the signature climb up Dreaded Hill and a winding, technical stretch through Billy Goat. A pre-BBQ leg burner with rewarding views and just enough grit to earn your holiday.

Disclaimer: Early start, steady pace, off trail before the sizzle. We’ll kick off at 7am and aim to wrap by 9:30. Expect sustained climbs, loose terrain, and minimal breaks. Best suited for hikers with trail experience and solid fitness looking to celebrate the 4th with some earned effort.

Details:

• Meeting Place: Parking lot adjacent to Starbucks - Wahoo’s.
• General Rating/Difficulty: Level 2/2+ (Moderate for distance, elevation, and pace.
• Distance/Elevation/Duration: Level 2/2+ Estimate: 7 miles, 1250+- ft gain, and ~2.5–3 hours (moderate to fast pace).
• Note: This is a group workout; there is no designated leader or sweeper.

Essentials:

• Traction hiking shoes
• Plenty of water (electrolytes recommended)
• Quick snacks
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or sun protection

Route: We’ll be starting on a flat trail for approximately 1.5 miles. The workout kicks off as we ascend Dreaded Hill, exploring trails like four Corners, Billy Goat, Cactus Hill, Sage, Serrano Cow, and returning to the trailhead and parking lot via Serrano.

About Whiting Ranch: Explore the natural beauty of Limestone Canyon & Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, spanning 4,300 acres of diverse landscapes. From riparian and oak woodland canyons to rolling grassland hills, immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, including the captivating Red Rock Canyon. Witness remnants of the park's cattle ranching past as it rejuvenates from the 2007 Santiago Fire.
For more information:

• Orange County Parks
• Whiting Ranch Wilderness

Directions: If traveling south on Fwy 405 or 5, exit Bake Pkwy, turn left on Bake Pkwy, and continue for about 4.5 - 5 miles. Turn right at Portola and right at the light of Glenn Ranch (park at the Starbucks coffee parking). For those heading north on 5, consider exiting at Lake Forest and proceed toward Foothill Ranch, following similar directions as mentioned above.

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.

REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Get a sneak peek here: Lizard, Laurel, Willow & Emerald Canyon Loop #hike

Disclaimer: Challenging route with climbs, rough terrain, and a steady pace. Best for experienced hikers with solid fitness.

We’re running this classic loop in reverse to beat the late-morning heat and enjoy the canyon shade while it lasts.

Starting from Ridge Park, we’ll descend Emerald Canyon, climb up Old Emerald Trail, descend Willow, cut through Laurel, climb Lizard Trail and finish with a breezy cruise along Bommer Ridge.

Expect scenic singletrack, switchbacks, and a solid climb that pays off with views and grit.

Optional Shorter Route (~6-8 miles):

If you prefer a less strenuous option, you can bypass Lizard Trail. After finishing on Old Emerald Trail, return to the trailhead via Bommer Ridge. This alternative route still offers great views and an excellent workout, covering approximately 6-8 miles.

Meeting Details:

• Location: Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park Road, Newport Beach, CA 92657
• Meeting Point: Ridge Park Entrance (at the dead end of Ridge Park Road near the trailhead sign).
• Parking: Free street parking available.

Hike Details:

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Distance/Elevation Gain:
• Full Loop: ~10 miles, ~1600 feet cumulative gain.
• Shorter Route: ~6-8 miles, bypassing Emerald Canyon.
• Facilities: Restrooms available at the Willow Staging Area.

Essentials:

• Sturdy hiking shoes (with good traction)
• Hiking poles (optional but helpful for steep sections)
• Water (minimum 2-3 liters)
• Snacks and electrolytes
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Route Details:

• Start: Ridge Park Entrance
• Bommer Ridge → Emerald Canyon (descent)
• Old Emerald Trail (climb)
• Willow Canyon (descent)
• Laurel Canyon (cut-through)
• Lizard Trail (climb)
• Return via Bommer Ridge

Note: DOGS are not allowed on many trails within Crystal Cove State Park, so please leave pets at home.
Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Tags: #Hiking #OutdoorAdventure #OrangeCountyHikes #CrystalCoveStatePark