Laurel Spring Out and Back

From the parking lot, head north through Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary to the trailhead. Ascending above Modjeska Canyon, the trail wastes no time getting hikers lungs working. After about 1.5 miles, the trail comes to Goat Shed Overlook which offers nice views of Modjeska Canyon. Continue east climbing the ridgeline as you follow Harding Trail. There are nicer views of Catalina Island, central Orange County coastal plain, and the San Joaquin Hills as you ascend the ridge. At mile 5 there is a small path that leads off to the right. It dips below the trail and down to Laurel Spring, and often overgrown oasis with water shaded by trees and ferns. After a nice rest, return the way you came and head all the way back to the trailhead for a nice 10.4 mile round trip hike.Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1939 and is now a bird-watching haven.