I decided to hike on down Whiting Spur on a foggy May morning into Whiting Ranch. I was with my boyfriend, and since this is a park with high mountain lion activity, I do not believe I would hike here solo. It is a beautiful and scenic natural area nonetheless.
We started on Whiting Spur, just off Santiago Canyon Road.
We passed by Billy Goat Trail along Whiting Spur.
He hiked on toward Mustard, which we took downhill to Red Rock Trail.
I saw so many unique varieties of wildflowers along the way on Mustard, as we ventured into the canyon, towards the Oak tree grove.
Wild Lilies
Since it was springtime, there were lots of songbirds all around.
One of the biggest draws of Whiting Ranch is its unique red rock formations.
There was a fair bit of shade once in the canyon, though it was not really needed, since it was overcast. We took Mustard, over to Red Rock Trail, and made a right.
On a sunny day, canyon’s like this can get very hot as the sun radiates off the canyon walls.
We hiked all the way to where the trail dead ends beneath scenic wavelike red rocks, reminiscent of Sedona, Arizona or Utah. But here it is to behold, right here in Southern California.
Exploring is always better together.
On the way back up Red Rock Trail, I spotted a large cottontail rabbit.
Hell bent on challenging ourselves somewhat, we proceeded up Billy Goat, which is the favorite trail of just about no hiker, since it kicks your butt. We were up for a challenge today.
Along Billy Goat, the wildflowers were fully in bloom. All the small white flowers are Native Buckwheat.
Billy Goat has its fair share of ups and downs. The terrain is insanely rocky, so sturdy shoes are advised.
Whiting Ranch is one of the most pristine natural areas to explore in Orange County. It was quiet, peaceful, and empty here, since it was a weekday.
Typically these trails fill up on Saturday with a healthy mix of mountain bikers, and hiking groups.
Native Buckwheat
A cactus blooms only after adequate rain, during the spring. It is a drought tolerant native plant species, that is also fire retardant, so it makes a good fire break. It gets a bad wrap since it tends to take over, and interfere with native grasses establishing themselves.
After Billy Goat we linked back to Whiting Spur, and headed to the car. If you are looking for a short moderate hike with plenty of nice views, points of interest, and some challenge, I recommend this loop. Just be sure to hike with a friend here, due to the mountain lions. Until next time Whiting Ranch.
I hope you enjoyed reading this, and it is helpful in knowing what to expect, should you decide to visit here.
About me
I’m Serafina! I’m a writer and California girl who loves to go exploring. Hope you will get outside today, breathe some fresh air, and be happy!
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Disclaimer: The work on this blog is my opinion and my opinion alone and I am not responsible for the outcome if someone were to apply these thoughts to their own life. All text and photography copyright 2022 by Serafina, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers’ usage of the ideas and opinions presented in the blog, are at their own risk. Be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, surfing, walking, cooking, and other activities, which may take place indoors or outdoors. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from reading the blog, or partaking in any activity mentioned in the blog. Read the blog, and use its ideas, if you so desire, at your own risk.
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