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Hike to Laurel Spring via the Harding Trail.


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Map Key

10.5

Miles

16.9

KM

Out and Back

3,481' 1,061 m

High

1,388' 423 m

Low

2,317' 706 m

Up

2,317' 706 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

20%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Spring · Views · Wildlife

There may be fire restrictions in effect.

Overview

This 10.4 mile round trip hike takes users up Harding Trail to Laurel Spring and back.

Need to Know

Visit Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary on your way out or back!

Description

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.

Flora & Fauna

Numerous bird species!

History & Background

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

Contacts

Shared By:

John McKinney

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 1 vote

#5111

Overall
  3.0 from 1 vote
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Recommended Route Rankings

#717

in California

#5,111

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4 Views Last Month
808 Since Aug 4, 2017
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Photos

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, Modjeska Canyon
Aug 4, 2017 near Portola…, CA
Harding Truck Trail
Dec 11, 2020 near Portola…, CA

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Current Trail Conditions

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