Chorro Grande Trail

Overview

***This trail was affected by the 2017 Thomas Fire and is currently closed. Please contact the Los Padres National Forest for further updates and information. *** The Chorro Grande Trail climbs gradually uphill through the low lying scrub bushes of the Sespe Wilderness to reach a pine tree covered ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands. Be prepared for lots of sun and incredible views on this relentless climb. Chorro Grande translates to “big stream.” The translation indicates that, at one time, the water coming down this hillside was quite impressive. Unfortunately however, the stream that inspired the trail’s namesake is dry most of the year. During the winter though, the higher reaches of the trail will actually get some snow — so depending on our winter precipitation you might actually be able to catch that big rush during the springtime. The trailhead lies off the 33 highway north of Ojai. The sign can be difficult to find at first but if you drive slowly you will see it on the right hand side of the road, about 11 miles after Rose Valley Road. Park in the dirt lot on the left side of the highway and cross the highway carefully to reach the trailhead. Be sure to display your Adventure Pass. Trailhead The trail winds slowly from the highway through knee-high grass. This is a good trail to wear long pants on due to the overgrowth of vegetation (and springtime ticks). It is advised to not hike this trail during the summer due to the heat and the potential for rattlesnakes. Soon you will start to see some white rock formations to your right which are characteristic of the area. One of the larger formations in the area, Piedra Blanca, lies south of this trail off Rose Valley Road, which you will have passed on your way up Highway 33. The first 2 miles of this trail are part of a recovering burn area. The fire, in combination with rains the following year, have made the area around the river bed susceptible to erosion. Definitely watch your step and stay on the trail. The trail is still dist

Trail Stats

Photos

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Trail photo

No caption provided.

Tags