Santa Paula Canyon (Last Chance) - 21W11 / 21W09

 Santa Paula Canyon (Last Chance Trail) (21W11 & 21W09)

This is a 7.4-mile out-and-back trail near Santa Paula, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Santa Paula Canyon is one of the best hikes in Ventura County. The access trail starts off highway 150 just North of Thomas Aquinas College’s entrance. It takes you along the shady banks of Santa Paula Creek. Further along the trail there are a number of swimming holes, The trail is capped, just past Big Cone Camp, by a spectacular 25-feet waterfall.

To access this trail, you will enter private property (an easement), so be respectful - you are allowed to use the trail to access the national forest, but not allowed to loiter on the first mile of the trail. Following signs, go past an oil rig and through an avocado farm. You will walk past a large red gate, then on to another oil pumping rig. Go left around the rig to the trailhead (this is where the national forest starts), where you will be greeted by the sounds of the Santa Paula Creek. The waterfall is northwest if you follow Santa Paula Creek.

There is little shade along this route, so come prepared with sunscreen and plenty of water.