Hike part of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) South to Martindale Ridge and enjoy views of the Sierra Pelona/ Aqua Dulce/ Mojave/ Lancaster etc.
DISTANCE: ~ 6.5 Miles, Round trip, Out and Back style
GAIN: 1300′ Approx.
DURATION OF HIKE: 3.0 hours including a 20 minute break
RATING: Moderate + , for gain
DESCRIPTION:
This hike is another one of our local favorites, close to suburbia but feels miles away. The hike is entirely on the well maintained Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), that goes from Mexico to Canada. We will start at 3320′ and enjoy mainly a gentle gain that PCT is known for, climbing through luscious chaparral of manzanita, mountain mahogany and oak. There will be a few short steeper sections.
Along the way, we hope to enjoy views of the Bouquet Reservoir, and Jupiter and Grass Mountains. We will visit Bear Spring and eventually emerge on Martindale Ridge at 4500′, after 3.2 miles. From here, if it is clear, we take in views in all directions (i.e. Mojavi, Lancaster and the Sierra Pelona area (Aqua Dulce/ Acton etc.) spread out below. After a quick snack, we head back down the PCT for a total of 6.5 miles.
MEET: At Trailhead at 7:30AM, to start heading up the trail at 7:45AM SHARP. See directions below
DIRECTIONS to trailhead: Address = 37862 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA. (Google : 34.583655, -118.321585 is best)
About 35 minutes up Bouquet Canyon from Santa Clarita.
From the I-5 Freeway, heading North (toward Castaic):
Exit at Newhall Ranch Road (Route 126). After heading up the off ramp, turn East (right) along Newhall Ranch Road, toward Valencia. Go 4.4 miles on the Newhall Ranch to the intersection with Bouquet Canyon.
Turn left at the Bouquet Cyn./ Newhall Ranch light and drive 17 miles up Bouquet Canyon until you see Bouquet Reservoir on the left, followed shortly by Spunky Canyon Road on the left also. Stay on Bouquet Canyon. Drive another 2.2 miles and park at a large turnout on the right (with Pacific Crest Trail markers on either side of the road).
From Antelope Valley/ North of Santa Clarita:
If you are driving from Lancaster, take Elizabeth Lake Road to Bouquet Canyon Road (just before Leona Valley). Turn left and drive 4.3 miles on Bouquet until you see a large turnout on the left (with Pacific Crest Trail markers on either side of the road).
BRING: Hiking Poles, lunch/snacks, at least 2L of water with 1L electrolytes, camera, hat and SUNSCREEN, hiking shoes/boots with good tread.
Adventure Pass / Bathrooms: Pass is not required; no bathrooms at Trailhead, plan accordingly.
Dogs: OK, on leash and if well behaved around people / other dogs. If you bring a dog, please drive yourself.
Leader: Paul
