Serrano to Sycamore Canyon Loop Trail
Details
DESCRIPTION: We start at the Big Sycamore Canyon Campground near sea level, heading north on the pleasant Sycamore Canyon Trail for 1.5 miles before turning east into the densely wooded Serrano Canyon. The trail follows a seasonal stream with abundant crossings (if there is water which seems unlikely this late in August) and wildlife sightings as we wind through the narrow canyon surrounded by lush vegetation. After gaining elevation through the creek bed, we emerge into stunning open grasslands set against the dramatic backdrop of Boney Mountain, climbing approximately 800 feet over the first 4 miles. The trail traverses these rolling meadows, passing an old aluminum shack where many hikers pause to enjoy the sweeping vistas. From here, we connect to the Old Boney Trail for a scenic descent back toward Big Sycamore Canyon, completing the loop on a wide fire road that offers different perspectives of the surrounding wilderness. The final stretch returns us through the campground to our starting point, having experienced both intimate canyon beauty and expansive mountain views on this fun 9.2-mile adventure.
DETAILS:
- Hike leader volunteer(s): Tim R.
- Meet: Sycamore Canyon Trailhead, Point Mugu State Park, Malibu, CA (Sep 13).
- Distance: Approximately 9.2 miles.
- Elevation gain: Approximately 1,177 feet.
- Time: Approximately 4.5 hours hiking including a snack break.
- Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.
- Dogs: No dogs are allowed.
- Restrooms: There are bathrooms at the trailhead.
- Adventure Pass: Not Required.
IMPORTANT NOTES: We’ll hike at a brisk pace and ask everyone to stay with the group for a friendly and safe outing. Hiking may be hazardous due to uneven footing, stream crossings, exposures, snakes, bugs, poison oak, etc. Please be aware of your abilities and their limits. You are responsible for your own safety and well-being. This event may be cancelled due to any inclement weather or other conditions.
ESSENTIAL GEAR: Hiking boots and poles. Clothing layers recommended. Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets. Hat and sunscreen.
The Ten Essentials of Hiking (link)
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3, Intermediate (see chart below).
Please only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days, how would you score on the CHC Hike rating scale of one to five assuming a brisk pace?
CHC HIKE RANKING SCALE:
1. Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3. Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5. Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION: Sycamore Canyon Trailhead, Point Mugu State Park, Malibu, CA
There are two parking options: Park in the Sycamore Canyon Parking lot and pay a $12/ day fee with a credit card to a machine in the lot (recommended). Alternatively, you may or may not be able to find free parking out on the PCH (as available space is limited).
NAVIGATION: We highly recommend the AllTrails app be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to.
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY - IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.
Serrano to Sycamore Canyon Loop Trail