Rattlesnake to Pacific Ridge Loop at Crystal Cove (~9 Mi, Moderate–Fast Pace)

Join us for a scenic ~9-mile loop through Crystal Cove State Park. This route showcases some of the best terrain in Newport Coast, taking us along Bommer Ridge, Red Tailed Ridge, and the rolling singletrack of Rattlesnake Trail before dropping into Moro Canyon for a change of terrain.

We’ll take a short break at the Crystal Cove Moro Campground, where restrooms and water are available, before continuing through No Dogs and No Name Ridge for a steady climb back toward Pacific Ridge. Our return along Pacific Ridge Trail offers expansive views and a strong finish to a beautifully varied route.

Please Note: Not So Casual means our hikes double as a workout — brisk pace, solid climbs, and an endurance challenge paired with a friendly, supportive group vibe. Come prepared with gear, water, and your best effort, and you’ll fit right in. The group moves at a steady, moderate-to-fast pace and may not wait if you fall behind, so please know your limits and be ready to hike at this level — or plan to finish on your own, ideally by pairing up with someone at a similar pace.

Meeting Details:

• Location: Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park Road, Newport Beach, CA 92657
• Meeting Place: Ridge Park Entrance (dead end of Ridge Park Rd, by trailhead sign)
• Parking: Free street parking
• Difficulty: Moderate+ / Moderate to Fast Pace
• Distance/Elevation Gain: ~9 miles, ~1800 feet cumulative gain.

Essentials:

• Traction hiking shoes
• Water (1.5-2L; electrolytes recommended)
• Quick snacks
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or sun protection

Route Details:

• Ridge Park Entrance → Bommer Ridge
• Bommer Ridge → Red Tailed Ridge
• Red Tailed Ridge → Rattlesnake Trail
• Rattlesnake → West Cut Across → Moro Canyon
• Moro Campground (restroom)
• No Dogs → No Name → Pacific Ridge → Ridge Park Entrance

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.

Disclaimer & Safety Notice: Not So Casual Hikes are challenging outings designed for hikers in strong shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We hike at a steady pace and the group may spread out. Please be prepared to navigate independently if you fall behind, though we’ll aim to check in at major junctions when possible. By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation, 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. Hiking carries inherent risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions. Be prepared for sun exposure, heat, or marine layer conditions depending on the day.