Three Sisters Reserve
The Three Sisters Reserve is a 99-acre tract of land featuring 5 trails that wind along bluffs and through rolling, grassy hills along the Pacific, offering furbulous views of the ocean and surrounding areas. Meandering among beaches and rocky formations, the paths cross meadows amid rare species of wildflowers and cactus. The longest trail is the .7-mile Barkentine, which arises at the northern end of the Reserve and leads almost due south to connect with the shorter .5-mile Three Sisters Trail and eventually the Sunshine Trail. The McBride (.6 mi) heads east across the Filiorum Reserve, and the McCarroll Canyon (.4 mi) makes a loop with Three Sisters and Barkentine. The Sunshine Trail (.3 mi) emerges near the southern trailhead at Barkentine Road and flows northwest where it meets up with the Three Sisters Trail. These interconnecting loops make for customizable hikes for you and your pooch.
Parking for these trails is available on the streets of the communities surrounding the Reserve on the South Bay, notably Rancho Palos Verdes. Bikes and horses are permitted on designated trails, so be prepared to see them and get out of the way to the right, keeping Fido's leash grasped firmly to avoid startling the horses or causing a bike mishap. The trails are paved and dirt, with rustic safety fences and informational signage along the way.
Parts of trails can become muddy and impassable after significant rainfalls, and they may be temporarily closed to protect the environment and ensure hikers' safety. Signage to this effect will be posted, and it's important to obey. And please don't forget to pick up after your pooch and deposit the waste in the trash receptacles provided.
Guided nature walks can be arranged with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. These informative hikes can enhance the experience of the Reserve by pointing out and identifying some of the beautiful wildflowers and rock formations, as well as birds and other animals that are abundant here.
The Three Sisters Reserve Trails are relatively easy and pawrect for quiet, contemplative strolls along the verdant hillsides above the Pacific. Be sure to stop and gaze out at the ocean, particularly around sunset. Woofderful!
Hazards include rattlesnakes, poison oak, stinging nettle and scorpions. Give them a wide berth and stay on the trail to limit exposure to them. These trails are open year-round, but keep in mind that during the summer they can get very hot because there is little to no shade available. Bring sunscreen and a hat, plus plenty of water for you and your furry sidekick.
