| We did this hike in August of last year. It was beastly hot but a great hike nevertheless. The best time of year for this hike is in the spring or fall. Also, think of including the side trail out to the Balanced Rock. It’s a little rough but worth the effort. It was good news to find out that this area was spared in the fires last spring.
At only 6 miles you get to see a spectacularly beautiful part of the Santa Monica mountains with amazing rock formations, ocean views and when clear the Channel Islands . I recommend doing the loop in a counterclockwise direction. That leaves the ocean vistas toward the end of the hike. Though short, remember to bring plenty water, snacks and sunscreen for the trail.
One of the things that makes this hike fun is afterwards driving back down to PCH, at the bottom of the access road, and visiting Neptune's Net where you can grab some seafood, a beer and a deck chair to sit on overlooking the beach. Speaking of beach, it's the County Line surf break which you can hang at after refreshments (or bring your stick and shred). In all the hike, the location, the place to hang afterwards make for one of the best So. Cal. outings around.
Directions: To find the Circle X Ranger Station take PCH to Yerba Buena Rd. Turn inland and go 5.4 miles to Circle X Ranch contact station. To get to the Sandstone Peak Trailhead to 1 mile north of Circle X Ranch on Yerba Buena Rd. The parking lot is on the left.
This is the map to use to find your way there. https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zUILwzXsoEzE.kSLEwdDfOfHM&authuser=0&hl=en
You can use the map with gps or to print directions before your departure. Just click the balloon for the parking area, then the icon for directions. You should be able to figure it out from there. Also, FYI there is little or no phone service at the parking area or on the trail.
Trail Map: (this link doesn’t always work)
I hope to see you out there!!!
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