Overnight Wilderness Journey to Topa Topa Bluff, Sisar Peak & White Ledge Camp

Rising sharply above the Ojai Valley, Topa Topa Bluff is one of Southern California’s most striking and iconic Matilija sandstone formations - visible from miles away, even as far south as Ventura. Its sheer presence feels like an invitation to explore what lies beyond the horizon.

This overnight adventure begins along the Sisar Canyon Trail, following in and out of the winding flow of Sisar Creek, where the sound of flowing water accompanies the hike deeper into the backcountry.

This time of the year should be quite ideal conditions: cool, crisp air, flowing creeks, and the spring wildflowers adding bursts of color to the canyons and ridgelines—nature waking up just in time for the journey.

By late afternoon, we should arrive at White Ledge Camp, one of the most serene and distinctive campsites in the region. Tucked into a dense forest of towering sycamore and giant California bay trees—the largest I’ve ever encountered—the camp feels like a hidden sanctuary. Pristine Sisar Creek borders the eastern edge of the site, providing a constant calming presence. As night falls, a crackling campfire and a simple back country dinner turn the forest into a cathedral of shadows, stars, and stillness.

Day two is mostly about elevation climb and exploration. From camp, the trail climbs toward Sisar Peak and onward to Topa Topa Bluff, where sweeping panoramic views reward the strenuous effort. From this lofty perch, the landscape opens wide—Ojai below, the Channel Islands on clear days, and endless ridges rolling toward the horizon. It’s the kind of place that makes the miles feel worthwhile and the solitude feel profound.

This trip isn’t just a hike—it’s a true wilderness life experience, blending rugged terrain, hidden camps, flowing water, and iconic summits into an unforgettable overnight adventure.

If you are also passionate about hiking & exploring in beautiful nature, committed to health, fitness & agility, and meet the quality below by self assessment, you are welcome to join.

Mindset: adventurous yet very safety conscious, self responsible & self accountable, self reflective, continuous self improvement, intellectually curious, independent thinking, open-minded worldview, collaborative & can do attitude

Personality & Character: authentic, sincere, down to earth, cheerful, pleasant to chat with, thoughtful, effective in communicating, competent, intelligent

Physical & Mental: healthy & fit for wilderness hiking & exploring, mentally & emotionally sound

Experience & Skill: hiking in rocky & uneven terrain, scrambling, wilderness bush traversing, camping/ backpacking, outdoor & wilderness survival

Ability: assess & manage all risks effectively, carry on meaningful conversations

Distance & Ascent: 23 miles, 5500' climb & descent, up to 3 days of exploring adventure in beautiful nature and wilderness

Supply & Equipment: adequate proper hydration & nourishment, reliable headlight, backup battery, water filter, camping gears, navigation apps, basic first aid and outdoor survival kit

Starting Point: Sisar Rd, Ojai Hwy 150

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Liability Waiver
By RSVPing and participating in this event, you acknowledge that outdoor adventures carry risks (injury, illness, accidents, etc.) and agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and belongings. The organizer(s) and co-hosts are not liable for any loss, damage, or injury. By joining, you agree to the full terms and conditions.