Hike Log

Santiago – No. No.. No… Ah, solitude…….

James January 27, 2026
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Trailhead Maple Springs
Type of hike Day hike
Trail conditions Trail in good condition
Road Road recommended for high clearance only
Bugs No Bugs
Snow Snow free
The most challenging (and fun) part of this hike for many will be the drive to the (upper) Maple Springs/Harding Truck Trail parking lot from the (lower) Maple Springs Trailhead.
7+ miles of very curvy mostly unpaved “rocky” road separate the lower and upper Maple Springs gates.
Although your navigation may say it’s 30 minutes, it will likely take an hour+/-  to navigate.
If it has rained recently or rain is in the forecast, the (lower) gate will likely be closed.
Check with the Trabuco Ranger District for closure information.  see link below
I started pretty late and being a weekday had the mountains pretty much to myself.
I only saw a hand-full of trucks and one motorcycle on the drive and hike.
No Trucks.  No Dust..  No One…  Ah, solitude…….
Great views from Santiago and Modjeska of the Channel Islands, and virtually every prominent peak in Southern California.
A great afternoon outside.
TrailSnail

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