Mustard–Vista Lookout–Billy Goat (~10 mi) / Red Rock Alt (~8 mi, Moderate Pace)

Join us for a rewarding morning on the trails! We’ll take on a loop that blends challenge with scenery, offering open views and rugged terrain. Our route begins in Borrego Canyon, follows Mustard Trail all the way to the gate, then turns back to connect with Vista Lookout before continuing through rugged stretches of trail. At ~10 miles with about 1,800 ft of elevation gain, this hike combines long climbs, uneven footing, and steady pacing — a great workout for stamina, leg strength, and trail fitness. Expect variety, effort, and the satisfaction of a solid morning well spent.

For those looking for a shorter option (~7–8 miles), there’s also the possibility to cut distance and include a detour to Red Rock, a striking highlight for anyone who hasn’t experienced it yet.

Here are links to a few of our previous hike videos in this area:

Vista–Billy Goat–Red Rock Canyon (via Facebook)
Borrego–Mustard–Billy Goat
Vista–Red Rock

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.

Details:
• Meeting Place: By the big sundial statue near the Borrego trailhead (adjacent to Ralphs and the gas station, and across from McDonald’s).
• Parking: Small lot at the trailhead ($5 fee or OC Parks Pass). Free lot across the street between McDonald’s and the nearby shops.
🚫 Do NOT park at Ralphs — security patrols and actively tickets cars.
• Difficulty: Moderate – based on distance, elevation, and pace.
• Distance / Elevation / Duration: ~10 miles, ~1,800 ft gain, estimated 3.5–4 hours at a moderate pace. Shorter option ~7–8 miles with Red Rock.
• Map: Whiting Ranch Trail Map (OC Parks)

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.

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

Route:
We’ll begin on Borrego Canyon Trail and follow Mustard Trail all the way to the gate before turning back. On the return, we’ll take the spur to Vista Lookout, then head back toward Cactus Pond.

• Long Route (~10 miles / 1,800 ft): From Vista, continue to Billy Goat Trail, loop through 4 Corners, and return via Mustard to Borrego.
• Shorter Route (~7–8 miles): From Vista, turn toward Red Rock (optional) before reconnecting with Borrego for the return.

About Whiting Ranch:
Whiting Ranch spans 4,300 acres of rugged canyons, ridges, and oak woodlands, with the striking Red Rock Canyon as its highlight. Once cattle ranching land and later scarred by the 2007 Santiago Fire, today it’s a landscape of resilience and natural beauty.

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.