As indicated, this route passes through private property near “Red Top Mountain” on Southwest portion of the loop. DO NOT ENTER PRIVATE PROPERTY. Private property boundary is clearly marked on GAIA online and multiple locked gates with signs. Take the obvious, open, not gated, inner loop to avoid the private property. Skye Valley road is not a thru road! No Lyons Valley Road access via Skye Valley Road.
★
The temperature was relatively cold (mid-40's), it was windy, dark clouds threatened rain, and I was hiking by myself in area I had never been before, so I was very happy to find a hike where the trailhead could be reached by a paved road, there was plenty of parking, and the trail was obvious and well signed. Considering the weather there were more hikers than I would have expected, but it was a Sunday and the hike is easy and definitely worthwhile. The tree cover in the first part of the hike makes a blustery day much more pleasant but the last portion of the trail is exposed to whatever Mother Nature wants to throw at you. Low hanging clouds blocked some mountain tops and ridges from view, but it was still a very scenic and enjoyable hike -- and it never did rain.
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stars
An easy out-and-back trail with some great views of mountains and the expansive valley between them. The hike was mostly through light tree coverage with the last mile or so on exposed plain where there was a strong breeze. The views and rock formation at the end of the hike was definitely worth the trip and as an added bonus, coming from 78 there's an opportunity for some Julian Apple Pies! It would be fun to do again with young children/older relatives as there is little elevation gain and the hike is relatively easy.
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This was a great out and back trail with a fantastic views! I don't go on my hikes just for the photos, but the scenery and the Eagle Rock did not disappoint.
A little bit about the trail - it was beautifully covered with oak trees, then around mile 2 the trees went away and it got very windy. We hiked in late November, and would recommend this hike during the off-summer months. There is zero shade for the last mile to Eagle Rock. Bring water. There is no water sources on the trail (at least in November). There is a small public parking lot at the trail head. I would love to go to this destination again.
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