Over Memorial Day Weekend, a couple girlfriends and I hit the trails at Crystal Cove State Park. El Moro Canyon is an elaborate system of trails for not just hikers and runners but also mountain bikers. With so many trails to choose from, I definitely have developed my favorite few.
For a good ass kicking hike, I take this 5+ mile loop trail that begins at the trailhead in Newport Coast. And bonus, it is free to park! If you park in Crystal Cove State Park parking lot of Pacific Coast Highway, there is a $15 parking fee!
Your starting point is at Coastal Peak Park (google map link). At the trailhead follow the Pacific Ridge trail (1.3 miles) west towards the ocean. This trail turns into Muddy Canyon (0.8 miles). Take the West Cut Across (0.6 miles) to get to Moro Canyon trail. Following along Moro Canyon trail (1.5 miles) is “The Elevator” and the steepest incline in the whole park. Take “The Elevator” (0.3 miles) up to get to Bommer Ridge Road (0.7 miles) and follow the trail until you reach the trailhead/your starting point.
Fun Tip: Keep an eye out for mile marker twelve while on Moro Canyon Trail. It will be on your right hand side and this is where the tiny little cave is that we took pictures in.
This is not an easy hike. Bring lots of water and start early! It will take roughly 2.5 – 3 hours depending on your pace. The beginning of the hike is mostly all downhill as you wind your way down through the canyon and then you cut back up through the canyon. Happy hiking!
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