The times on the walking routes are approximate for a hiker with a moderate pace who wants to stop and enjoy the Park's views, flora and fauna.

2.  BLUE ROUTE

Time:     4-5 hours

Elevation: 100' to 900+'

Distance: 11 miles

Roundtrip: This route known as the Perimeter of the Park Hike is the best way to really see Crystal Cove backcountry.  Take some food along and plenty of water. It's fun to stop at one of the campsite picnic areas for a snack and rest. Composit toilets are available at both campsites. As this is a circular hike, you can choose to go either clockwise or counterclockwise. The description will go clockwise.

Details:  Begin at No Dogs which starts at the north end of the parking lot.  No Dogs is a short but moderately uphill walk taking about 30 minutes.  No Dogs connects with No Name Trail (bear left) which is a bit like a roller-coaster with several up and down ascents and descents.  The first junction is  West Cut Across or Mach One which leads down to Moro Canyon Trail. There is a branching trail, Red Tail Ridge, on the right one-third of the way down West Cut Across. Only take West Cut Across if you decide to not do the perimeter of the Park.  The second junction on No Name is with Deer Canyon Trail. Deer Canyon is a narrow, downhill single track which leads to the first campsite where there is a lovely, shady oak tree for cooling off.  Get a good drink here as you will be climbing out of Deer Canyon up to the boundary of the Park.  Follow the Boundary Trail along the fence in a southerly direction, passing West and East Loop Trail.  Eventually you will connect with Upper Moro Ridge Trail which runs along the southern boundary of the Park with Emerald Canyon off to your left.  The Pacific breezes will cool you as you make the turn towards home. Be on the lookout for the other campsite on your right. There are great views here of the caves and the canyons in the Park. From the picnic area back to the parking lot is downhill for the most part.  Enjoy the hike, you've done it all.

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