Tapo Canyon Open Space Trail [T23] to Chivo Canyon

START TIME – We’ll meet at 7:00 AM at the parking area (described below) in Simi Valley. Sunrise is at 6:45 AM.

DESCRIPTION OF HIKE: Moderate 5 miles with 800’ of elevation gain/loss. We’ll start our hike along the Tapo Canyon Open Space trail (T23) just east of Tapo Canyon Road and will follow it as it rises to a junction with a loop trail that includes an oak woodland. Past the junction we’ll drop down into Chivo Canyon; then we’ll backtrack a little and take the northern section of the loop trail back to the junction; then we’ll return to our vehicles the way we came.

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) and a camera might come in handy.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO THE GATHERING POINT (NOTE: be sure to arrive at the trailhead by 7:00 AM

o In Simi Valley, drive along Highway 118 to the Tapo Canyon Road exit and take it.

o Drive 1.6 miles north (away from the city) to a small dirt parking area on the east (right) side of Tapo Canyon Road (about 400’ before you reach the junction with Lost Canyons Drive).

NOTE: You may also park along Tapo Canyon Road on the dirt shoulders near the parking area.

o Park and wait for the hiking leader(s).

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Simi Valley.