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trip 3.5 Deer Canyon Loop

Distance 3.6 miles (loop)

Hiking Time 2 hours

Elevation Gain 600’

Difficulty Moderate

Trail Use Backpacking, cyclists, equestrians

Best Times October–May

Agency CCSP

DIRECTIONS This trip begins at the Pacific Ridge Trailhead near Coastal Peak Park atop the San Joaquin Hills. From Highway 1, follow Newport Coast Drive northeast for 2.4 miles. Turn right onto Ridge Park Road, and proceed 1.4 miles to park on the street by the park and trailhead.

Crystal Cove State Park’s parking fee is comparable to other beach parking, but it’s mighty high compared with entry fees for nearby wilderness parks. The Pacific Ridge Trailhead is increasingly popular because it is outside the park and avoids the hefty parking fee. This trip describes the shortest loop you might make into the park from the Pacific Ridge Trailhead. A brief study of the map will suggest many other options, including challenging treks to the sea of 10 miles or more.

The Deer Canyon loop route along the west edge of Crystal Cove’s backcountry sector explores the park’s higher ridges and valleys. Since there’s little shade and views are the primary attraction, the hike is by far most rewarding on clear, cool winter or early spring days. Backpackers have the option of staying overnight at Deer Canyon’s trail camp, near the halfway point of the loop. Make a reservation in advance at reserveamerica.com for Crystal Cove State Park Primitive Tent Camping, or get a permit in person at the visitor center.

From the three-way junction at the trailhead, pick up the Pacific Ridge Trail that leads south along a ridge. The vast area of luxury homes comes into view on your right, a stark contrast with the open, protected lands of the South Coast Wilderness on your left. Soon enter land belonging to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. At 1.4 miles, pass a gate where the path enters Crystal Cove State Park and changes to No Name Ridge Road.

Just beyond, look for the narrow, rutty “Ticketron” trail branching left. Ticketron makes a radical drop (at least for mountain bike riders) toward the floor of shallow Deer Canyon, then settles into an easy grade as it approaches the trail camp, which features a picnic bench, a composting toilet, and sites to pitch a tent down near a scraggly line of live oaks and sycamores.

Beyond the campground, a short, steep climb leads to Redtail Ridge Trail, which is a fire road to the left (north). Follow this path north to a T-junction with Bommer Ridge Road, where you turn left and loop back to the trailhead.