Let’s go see what’s in bloom in one of our favorite hiking spots, Newton Canyon to Buzzard’s Roost!
This area was burned over in the Woolsey fire, but since then it has been thick with wildflowers, freely flowing water, and a few waterfalls, including the Upper Newton Canyon falls, above. Last spring, we saw lupines, poppies, lilies, and a real rarity – Indian Chief (related to Indian Paintbrush, but much rarer here in southern California). There is a tiny bit of Poison Oak sprouting, easily avoided. This year, the Phlox and Phaecelia are already starting to poke their heads out, and Shooting Stars are starting to appear, so let’s go see what else is blooming.
From the Kanan Rd trailhead, we’ll jump on the Backbone Trail for a cruise over and up to the peak of the Zuma Ridge Trail at Buzzard’s Roost. On the ridge, we’ll have a great view of Zuma Beach and the Pacific. On our way there, we’ll cross a free-flowing creek near where a footbridge once stood, pass under a scorched oak canopy, and come out to a beautiful view of Upper Newton Falls spilling down a cliff to the valley floor.
This is an out and back hike at a total of 8 miles, with 1600′ total elevation gain, most of it leading to the turnaround point with the ocean view at Buzzards Roost. Even the beginning and end of the hike are mostly exposed after the fire. The middle portion is completely exposed; prepare accordingly.
Directions:
From the 101, go south (toward beaches) on Kanan Road about 8 miles to just before the third tunnel (T1). The parking lot is on the right.
From Pacific Coast Highway, go north on Kanan Dume Road about 4 miles and make a left turn into the parking lot immediately after going through the first tunnel.
If another hike is posted for this date, please sign up for only one.
Please review our guidelines to participate in our hikes:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Please plan on completing the entire hike or choose another hike compatible with your hiking ability.
No dogs allowed, on leash, in doggy backpacks, etc.
Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
PLEASE NOTE: There is overflow parking a quarter mile north of the trailhead, recently graded.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
Your personal safety should be your very first, and top concern and priority. Please make an honest assessment of your own ability, and plan and act accordingly.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike; please have your friends join The Weekday Trailblazers, and register for the event.
Sorry, no dogs on this hike (State Park land).
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
