O: Hike the Secret Rainforest Trail

This adventurous hike through part of the Rainforest starts from the parking lot of TreePeople at Coldwater Canyon and Mulholland Drive. From TreePeople’s parking lot we descend into a residential cul-de-sac to reach the trailhead to the Secret Rainforest. The path will turn into a single trail, which includes steps and short steep trails up and down. While enjoying views of the San Fernando Valley, at times we will be in the open, under the sun, and at other times under the canopy of the forest. If you can hike comfortably on Kathy’s hikes in Griffith Park, you’ll enjoy this one as well. Bring at least 2 quarts of water, a snack, suitable clothing layers, hat, and hiking boots/shoes with good tread. Trekking poles are recommended. Rain cancels.

Tree People is located up on the ridgeline between Beverly Hills and Studio City. The park entrance is at the stoplight where Coldwater Canyon Ave., Franklin Canyon Dr. and Mulholland Dr. (West) intersect. The entrance is on the Valley side of the street.

Level: Easy (O), about 5 miles RT with about 500 feet of elevation gain

Sponsored by the S. C. Griffith Park Section

Leaders:

• Kathy Faulds – 1-818-681-7947

• Sue Schohan – 1-818-648-9170

Check the weather (http://www.weather.com/weather/hourbyhour/l/USCA1107:1:US)

Directions (adapted from TreePeople):

From the Valley via 101 Freeway
Exit at Coldwater Canyon Ave and drive south, cross Ventura Blvd., and continue on Coldwater almost to the top of the hill. TreePeople is at the intersection with Mulholland Dr. (West) and Franklin Canyon Dr. -- the second light (and 1.7 miles) south of Ventura Blvd. Turn left into Coldwater Canyon Park (the one on top of the hill).

From 405 Freeway (southbound alternative from the Valley)
Exit to the 101 Freeway east (toward Los Angeles) and follow 101 directions, above

From 405 Freeway north or south
Exit Skirball Center/Mulholland Dr. Turn left off the exit ramp. Take the first right onto Mulholland Dr. Pass through four traffic lights: Casiano, Roscomare, Beverly Glen, and Benedict Canyon. At the fifth traffic light (fifteen minutes from the 405, and 4.7 miles later) turn left at the signal and proceed through the intersection into the park (this is the intersection of Coldwater Canyon, Franklin Canyon, and Mulholland)

From Beverly Hills Take Beverly Dr. north (NOT Beverly Blvd.) About ½ mile north of Sunset Blvd. turn left to stay on Beverly Dr. (towards Coldwater Canyon). At the next signal, travel straight on Coldwater Canyon Ave. (Beverly turns left again and Coldwater Canyon Ave. begins). Take Coldwater up the hill straight through the light at the first Mulholland intersection. Less than a minute later, you'll reach a second Mulholland intersection. Turn right at the light into Coldwater Canyon Park (the one at the top of the hill).