Lizard, Laurel & Willow Canyon (~8mi)

Join us for a scenic ~8-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 and Willow Canyon Road.

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
• Distance/Elevation Gain: ~8 miles, ~1600 feet cumulative gain
• Facilities: Restrooms available at the Willow Staging Area.

Essentials:

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

Route:
Ridge Park Entrance→ Bommer Ridge → Lizard Trail → Laurel Canyon → Willow Canyon Road → Bommer Ridge back to trailhead

From the Trail:
Field notes on human capacity, written from the trail. Not So Casual Hikes newsletter.
https://notsocasualhikes.beehiiv.com

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.