Deer to Moro Canyon Loop at Crystal Cove (~9.5 Mi, Moderate Pace)

Get a sneak peek here: Pacific Ridge, No Name, No Dogs, Rattlesnake, Moro Canyon Loop #hike

Read This Before Joining: Not So Casual Hikes are fast-paced, challenging outings designed for hikers in excellent shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Our organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We don’t provide sweepers, and the group may not wait if you fall behind. You might finish with new friends or on your own—and either way, it's part of the journey. By signing up, you take full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation. We don’t tailor pace or routes for individuals, and we don’t make space for complaints. What we do offer is a supportive, like-minded community that thrives on grit, respect, and pushing the edge together. If that speaks to you—we’re glad you found us. Let's move.

Join us for a 9+ mile loop starting from the Ridge Park Entrance in Newport Coast, CA. This route highlights some of Crystal Cove’s most scenic and rewarding terrain, featuring coastal views, ridgeline climbs, and shaded canyon paths.

We’ll be switching things up: instead of our usual Rattlesnake to Moro Canyon route, we’ll take Deer Canyon and Ticketron down into Moro Canyon for a fresh twist on familiar trails. Highlights include Bommer Ridge, Red Tail Ridge, Deer Canyon, Ticketron, and Moro Canyon, with a mid-hike break at the Crystal Cove Moro Campground (restrooms and water available).

This is a Not So Casual Hike, expect a steady pace, minimal breaks, and a solid workout. Best for hikers with experience and a good fitness base.

Location: Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park Road, Newport Beach CA 92657
· Meeting Place: We will meet at the Ridge Park Entrance at the dead end of Ridge Park Road, which is the start of the trailhead. Look for the group gathering near the trailhead sign.
· Parking: Street (free)
· Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
· Distance/Elevation: Approximately 9.5 miles; ~1600 feet (cumulative gain, accounting for both ascents and descents along the route).
·Facilities: Bathroom available at Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground.

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 Ridge Park Entrance, heading to Bommer Ridge
• Continue on Bommer Ridge to Red Tailed Ridge
• Descend to Deer Canyon
• Take Ticketron to No Name/No Dogs
• Reach Crystal Cove Moro Campground (restroom available)
• Return via Moro Canyon/Bommer Ridge to Ridge Park Entrance

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: #HikingOC #OutdoorAdventure #OrangeCountyHikes #AdvancedHike #CrystalCoveStatePark #Rucking