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 Reporter |
Summary: Lofty coastal and canyon views highlight this sagey trek through a canyon adorned with acres of Black Mustard. The hike is best traveled in the clockwise direction, as there is more shade climbing uphill (carry plenty of water). About 1.5 miles past the trailhead, El Moro Cyn Rd. intersects with the East Cut Across-continue NE on El Moro Cyn. After two miles, welcome shade is provided by abundant Oak and Sycamore in the riparian woodland area. At the fork near the third mile, continue NE (right), climb uphill, and then, at 3.6 miles, for a scenic route along better trail, turn left at the fork (Elevator Rd.), continue uphill, and then turn right at road's end to face a gate and a sign marking the East Loop ("Missing Link" Tr.)-go right (east)-beware of speeding bikes! After an additional .7 mile, turn right at Moro Ridge Rd., and continue downhill, turning right at the East Cut-Across to complete the loop. Turn left at El Moro Cyn Rd. to return to the trailhead. Trailhead: Three miles south of Corona Del Mar, on Pacific Coast Highway, look for a traffic light signed "School-State Park"-turn north (inland), and proceed past El Moro School to a stop sign-turn right, and proceed uphill, veering right, into the El Moro Canyon/Crystal Cove parking lot near the Park Headquarters building. Check if a parking fee is required (varies according to year and season), and proceed to the southeast end of parking lot-the El Moro Canyon trailhead begins behind the gate at the entrance kiosk. (Lat:33.56583 Lon:-117.82388) Trail Guides for El Moro Canyon/El Moro Ridge Grand Loop (East): Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: California State Parks-(949) 494-3539 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Patricia Barnes, who has posted 23 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Steph on 8/24/2005 I enjoyed this hike except for the mid-loop part where you can see the 73 freeway. However, for Orange County, its pretty hard to get a nice place where you can't see any freeways. The "elevator" section was REALLY hard on those who weren't in shape, and pretty difficult for the non-hikers who were in shape. Other than that, it was a pretty relaxing trail. 
Reviewed by BG on 12/30/2004 Great trail for winter time activities. I extended the trip by adding 'Slow N' Easy' and 'B.F.I. Trail', and was just the right distance. There are a couple steep portions, though the trail map at the ranger station indicates trail difficulty. I have also run portions of this trail and is great for that, though not during the wet seasons.
Reviewed by Dawn on 7/9/2004 Great hike! The $10 parking fee was in effect but it was well worth it. We started just past the ranger station and did the outer perimeter ( No Dogs Rd., No Name Ridge Rd and Deer Canyon Tr.) before coming back down on El Moro Canyon Rd. Bring lots of water. It was overcast near the beach but was quite sunny and hot as we hiked up and in. The elevation gain was quite a work out but the ocean view more than made up for it.
Reviewed by Peter on 9/23/2003 Bring plenty of water and start early. The park opens at 7am.
Reviewed by Gary on 9/14/2003 Patricia, Great hike description! I did the same loop but in the opposite direction. We were getting ready for a Mt. Whitney Summit backpack (which we did!). Nice to see some really REAL trail/hike descriptions on this site! Regards, Gary Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Orange County Hiking, Orange County Trails, Orange County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||