Overview
This is a quick and beautiful loop with some fun sights along the way. A nice climb, a couple small caves, and a certain rock formation that demands your attention.
Parking
The lot is open from 8am – 5pm daily. It can fill up, so get there early if you want to run or hike on the weekend. Parking is $3. There is a port-a-potty to the far left of the parking area – and the only bathroom for a few miles.
Trail
Start out heading up Willow Trail. It’s a well-packed, wide trail and a steady climb for a good mile or so. Take the time to soak in the views of Laurel Canyon and south Orange County as you ascend. At the top, take your first right onto Laurel Spur which rounds you over to Laurel Canyon Trail. Start heading down a steep descent.
At the bottom, the trail splits. To the left is Lizard Trail – part of one of my favorite runs. But keep right, where Laurel Canyon Trail levels out to a single-track that takes you over a fun rocky path. Trees are plentiful at the bottom of the canyon and the path is well shaded. There are a few nice spots to pull over and pause for a breather if you’d like – a rocky cliff outcrop, a small waterfall into a stream when it rains, and the ever popular “Ghost Rock”. Personally I always hear “Bring me Solo and the wookie!” in my head whenever I see it, but that’s me.
The trail loops back around to Willow Staging Area – and there are a couple tiny shallow caves around there. Nothing impressive for grown-ups, but kids would enjoy climbing around in them.
And that’s it. Head on out or rinse and repeat for another lap.