Lizard, Laurel, Willow & Emerald Canyon Loop (~10 Miles, L3, Moderate Pace)

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

***This hike is not recommended for beginners due to the elevation gain and distance. Expect steep sections and technical terrain. We highly recommend this hike for those with prior hiking experience and a solid fitness level.

Join us for a scenic ~10-mile loop hike through Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness. This route features diverse landscapes, taking you along Bommer Ridge, Lizard Trail, Laurel Canyon, Willow Canyon Road, and Emerald Canyon, with a stop at Old Emerald Falls for a rewarding finish.

Optional Shorter Route (~8 miles):

If you prefer a less strenuous option, you can bypass Emerald Canyon. After reaching Willow Canyon Road, return to the trailhead via Bommer Ridge. This alternative route still offers great views and an excellent workout, covering approximately 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: ~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
• Trail Sequence:
• Follow Bommer Ridge
• Continue onto Lizard Trail
• Take Laurel Canyon
• Ascend via Willow Canyon Road
• Continue to Emerald Canyon and visit Old Emerald Falls
• Return via Bommer Ridge to the starting point.
• Shorter Route Option:
• After ascending Willow Canyon Road, skip Emerald Canyon and follow Bommer Ridge directly back to the trailhead.

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