Stagecoach Bluff, Lizard Rock, Mesa Trail Loop

This trail near Thousand Oaks is formed by 3 segments that connect to complete a loop circuit, with an optional extension to Lizard Rock at the loop's apex. Located in Wildwood Park in the midst of Wildwood Canyon, the gated path features a gentle incline on a well-groomed packed dirt trail that is doable for just about everyone. The Mountclef Ridge runs alongside it, and along the way you'll catch distant views of the Santa Monica Mountains. With spurs that lead to the Moonridge, Santa Rosa and Box Canyon Trails, you can also access Paradise Falls to the south.

After parking at the dirt parking lot, you'll encounter the slight incline of the Mesa Trail toward Wildwood Mesa straight ahead, and the volcanic rock outcropping known as Lizard Rock. To get there, you will find the Stagecoach Bluff Trail off to the left and continue to the turnoff that leads to the cliffs called Stagecoach Bluff. It's here, walking the edge of 400-ft cliffs on which numerous movie and television stagecoach races were filmed, that you'll get a sense of the vastness of the canyon below. 

You'll meet up here with the Lizard Rock Trail, a short, steep and slightly rocky path that will reward your effort with furbulous views of the Santa Rosa Valley, Wildwood and Hill Canyons and the city of Thousand Oaks from atop the "lizard's" back. Normally open dawn to dusk, guided full moon walks are popular with hikers and their pups, with spectacular views of the moon rising to the east. 

This is a typical chaparral-type hike where you'll be surrounded by sagebrush and many species of wildflowers alongside the trail. Lizards and small mammals scurry in the underbrush, and an occasional snake might be visible, so watch your step and keep an eye on the trail ahead. 

This dog- and family-friendly trail is a must-do if you find yourself in Ventura County!