Mammoth Highlands Loop
DESCRIPTION OF HIKE: Moderate 3.1 miles RT with about 440’ of elevation gain/loss AND an option to add another 1,4 miles RT with an additional 84’ of elevation gain/loss.
We’ll begin by hiking from the trailhead, in Moorpark on College Heights Dr., along a well-maintained trail passing Mammoth Highlands Park. After crossing Ridgecrest Dr., we’ll start gaining elevation as we climb up to a ridge affording expansive views of Happy Camp and northern Moorpark. If it’s a clear day, we’ll see Santa Cruz Island in the distance. The trail will continue along the perimeter of the residential area until we reach an intersection with a steep, single-track trail to an overlook and a covered bench. From there we’ll take a rapidly descending trail back to Ridgecrest Dr. and then back to the trailhead via Mammoth Highlands Park. If desired, we can continue a one-mile out and back trail that overlooks downtown Moorpark, adding another mile to the hike.
PREPAREDNESS:
Bring 2-3 liters/quarts of water (or other suitable liquid) and lunch/snack. Wear appropriate footwear (preferably hiking boots) and be prepared for bright sunlight (sunglasses), heat (layers of clothing), and/or precipitation (rain gear). Hiking pole(s) are recommended due to a degree of overgrowth along some stretches of the route we’ll hike, and a camera might come in handy.
DIRECTIONS TO THE TRAILHEAD IN MOORPARK:
- From Simi Valley, take Highway 118 west to Moorpark and exit at Princeton Drive. Head north (turn right) and then turn left on Campus Park Drive. (.3 miles)
- Turn left on Loyola Street. (.2 miles) and head up the hill to the highest point. (.3 miles) (Loyola Street becomes College Heights Drive. at the Westwood Drive intersection.)
- Park on the street and wait for the hiking leader(s). The trailhead is on the west side of the street just north of 6786 College Heights Drive.
DISCLAIMER:
The organizer(s) or leader(s) take no responsibility and will not be held responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur during any Rancho Simi Trail Blazers (RSTB) hike/outing. These events can be inherently dangerous and accidents will happen. By participating voluntarily you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being.