Sheep Run & Meadows Loop + Cave Rock Alt (7–11 mi, Moderate Pace)

Join us for a scenic loop through Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park! We’ll take on a beautiful 11-mile loop starting from Canyon View Park in Aliso Viejo. The route climbs Wood Canyon Trail up to Sheep Run, continues across rolling ridges, and descends the Meadows Trail, with a return through Wood Canyon. Expect ~1,470 ft of elevation gain and a total time of 3.5–4 hours, depending on pace and breaks.

Optional Shorter Route (6–7 miles): For those who prefer a lighter day, you can branch off at Wood Canyon to explore Dripping Cave and Cave Rock before looping back.

Here’s one of our previous hike videos from this area:
Sheep Run & Meadows loop

Disclaimer: Not So Casual Hikes are moderate to fast-paced, challenging outings designed for hikers in great 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 — and in return, you’ll find 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.

Meeting Point: Canyon View Staging Area (Canyon View Park, Aliso Viejo)
Parking: Free street parking nearby
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance & Gain: 7–11 miles | ~1,470 ft cumulative elevation gain

Essentials:
• Traction hiking shoes
• Plenty of water (at least 2L; electrolytes recommended)
• Quick snacks
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or sun protection

Route Overview (Long Loop):

• Start at Canyon View Staging Area
• Follow Wood Canyon Trail → (alt.) Wood Canyon Creek → Coyote Run
• Climb Sheep Run and connect with Aswut
• Descend Meadows Trail back to Wood Canyon
• Finish at Canyon Vistas

Alternate Route (~6–7 miles):
Follow Wood Canyon to Dripping Cave and Cave Rock trails before looping back

Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.

Important Safety Notice: Hiking carries risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions.

By joining, you accept full responsibility for your safety and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service, which include a liability release for organizers.