Hiking Trail Guide: Cactus-Sleepy Hollow Loop, Whiting Wilderness

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Cactus-Sleepy Hollow Loop, Whiting Wilderness

Distance
3 miles

Elevation
700 feet gain

Difficulty
2/10

City
Trabuco Canyon ,CA (92688) Weather Map

Trailhead
Concourse Park Trailhead: From Interstate 5, take the El Toro Road exit in Lake Forest. Head North/Northeast up El Toro Road towards the mountains. At the last stoplight before El Toro Road splits at Cook's Corner, turn left on Ridgeline. Turn left at the top of the hill, which is Saddleback Ranch Road. Proceed one block to Concourse Park.

Whiting is mountain lion country. Do not stoop. Be aware of your surroundings at all time. If you see a lion, do not scream or run. Report sightings to the rangers.

Description

Whiting Ranch affords the casual hiker ample opportunities for experiencing the many moods of the chaparral. Alas, that this beautiful trail is plagued by two hazards: mountain lions and suicidal mountain bikers.

The Cactus Trail segment of this loop marks the location where a biker was killed by a lion in January 2004. During the winter months, you will find sign along these trails, particularly near the Upper Pond. A more common hazard are heedless bikers who zip down this trail at speeds well exceeding the posted 5 mph. They have cut a deep groove down the center of the path and in many places it is extremely slippery even in dry weather.

You will be glad to reach Sleepy Hollow, a hiker's-only-area which leads off to the right. Live oak trees shade and clutter the path with their leaves. I have not seen puma sign here, but don't drop your guard.

Map / Directions: