Name: Elder + Towsley Loop
Start: 2025-11-01T07:00:00-07:00
End: 2025-11-01T11:00:00-07:00

**DESCRIPTION:** This epic combo hike starts at the Elder Loop parking lot off The Old Road and takes you through Santa Clarita's most diverse terrain! Begin by winding through open mountain vistas along the creek, then tackle a few switchbacks with dramatic drop-offs (minimal shade, so bring sun protection).

The adventure really kicks off when you transition into Towsley's geological wonderland - think tar pits, frothy streams, and rock formations that'll make your jaw drop! The Tataviam people once harvested natural asphalt here for healing and crafts. Squeeze through the slot-like Narrows with its towering vertical rock walls - it's like nature's own hallway!

Stay left twice after the Narrows, then climb the switchbacks to reach the 2,450-foot summit. Your reward? Breathtaking views as you descend into lush Wiley Canyon. Follow the dirt road left, then take the Canyon View Loop Trail for one final summit traverse before finishing at Ed Davis Park near the ranger station.

**What to expect:** Steep terrain, incredible diversity (desert to riparian), geological marvels, and panoramic views. This challenging combo showcases the best of Santa Clarita's wild side!

**DETAILS:**

* Hike leader volunteer(s): Tim R.
* Meet: Towsley Canyon Park (Nov 1).
* Distance: Approximately 7.8 miles.
* Elevation gain: Approximately 1,453 feet.
* Time: Approximately 4.0 hours hiking including a snack break.
* Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.
* Dogs: Dogs are allowed.
* Restrooms: There are no 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)](https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/)**

**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:** Towsley Canyon Park, Los Angeles County, CA

**[Driving Directions (link)](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/34.35808,-118.55534/@34.3580524,-118.6377431,16262m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDgyNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)**

Free and fee parking is available.

**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.

**[GPS Trail Map (link)](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/elder-towsley-loop-june-18-2025-e5e580b?u=i&sh=afpq6t)**

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.

Tim R.

Community Hiking Club (CHC)

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Elder + Towsley Loop

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Elder + Towsley Loop

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