January 1, 2011 – We (Jackie, Sandi and Edna) met friends Bernadette and David in Los Angeles to hike the Temescal Canyon loop. We discovered just how popular of a hiking spot this is. The trail was very busy with hikers making the loop from both directions. It was a clear and cool New Year’s day and I think others had the same idea we did. Once we reached the top of the loop, we had 360 degree views of Los Angeles. We could see Catalina at a distance in the Pacific, Downtown LA, and the snow-capped mountains in the distance. On the way to the top of the canyon, we could hear a creek running below in the heavily wooded canyon and as you follow the trail up, we got to the waterfall that was feeding the creek.
Trailhead: We parked in the paid parking lot instead of the Presbyterian conference center (free) and walked past the ranger station to the trailhead. You can make the loop clockwise or counter-clockwise. We hiked it counter-clockwise which is slightly easier (it sure didn’t feel easier). The hike had us climbing almost 1,000 feet and covered a little over 4 miles.
We managed to finish just before sunset and we were all hungry. So we drove about 10 miles up PCH to Malibu. We ate at the Malibu Seafood Market where you can get good seafood for a great price and take home seafood items to cook at a later. Not only did we get some great fresh seafood but we got a beautiful sunset with spectacular colors.
It was a great way to spend New Year’s day – a hike with a creek and waterfall, great views of the Pacific/Catalina and Downtown Los Angeles – capped with a spectacular sunset and a delicious dinner but best of all it was the time we spent with our wonderful friends.
Jackie's Voice 