The Trail: Temescal Loop

Scott Regberg

Special to the Mirror

   My recent article described “three easy hikes” in the local Santa Monica Mountains: Kenter, Capri and the Santa Ynez Waterfall.
   A level up from those is one of the most popular trails on the Westside, the Temescal Canyon Loop. 
   Park at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon in the Pacific Palisades and walk about a quarter mile North of Sunset up Temescal into the park area. You’ll pass a YMCA camp, public restrooms and, surprisingly, a few rustic homes.
   The trail head begins on your left and presents two options: the waterfall route to your right, or up a steep rocky trail straight ahead.
   Either way you’ll cover the same ground, but I suggest doing the circle to the right, especially for beginners. The waterfall route is an easier steady incline and affords better views on the way down.
   The trail starts relatively easy, with a few small bumps for exercise and a pleasing pathway that winds its way uphill, along side a seasonal stream. After about fifteen minutes, beginners will start complaining that it’s all uphill. This is only a warm-up for serious sherpas, but to be fair, it’s a good work-out for most of us. The path works its way up from the canyon floor to the waterfall bridge in about 30 minutes
Depending on the season, the falls can be a trickle or a modestly raging double drop fall. The bridge is relatively new and its distinctive green fiberglass looks like wood, spans a 20-foot ravine and provides easy passage over the stream. It’s also a charming spot for a rest.
   While many hikers turn around at this point, I urge you to finish the loop—some great sights are ahead. 
   The trail is particularly steep for the next fifteen minutes with dramatic canyon-to-ocean views revealed around every bend. You’ll pass a long phone pole lying next to a rocky ridge and in just a few more minutes take a left up to the high point and the beginning of the descent.
   You’ll witness an amazing change in the terrain, from dense canyon floor foliage to barren scree. You’ll also be amazed by the panoramic ocean-to-downtown L.A. views.
   The way down is steep, a little tricky and a lot of fun. You’ll definitely use different muscles and probably be disappointed that the hike is over so soon.
   The next time we visit Temescal, we’ll explore some of the interesting side trials, including Bienvenida, El Medio, Leacock, and the dramatic Skull Rock. 
   Readers interested in joining Monday and Wednesday night hikes please call Scott Regberg at 310 475-5735.