Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
201 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail is a great moderate length hiking route in Southern California that will take you to a scenic viewpoint. While out on the trail, you will meander through stretches of forest terrain and peaceful meadows, before arriving at a viewpoint overlooking the Santa Ana River Valley. Hikers should take note that there is no real parking at the trailhead, meaning that you will need to park at the roadside. You will also need a valid adventure pass displayed in your vehicle.

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Route Description for Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail

Featuring some peaceful woodland terrain and scenic views, the Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail is a great adventure if you are hoping to explore the SoCal landscape in a relatively easy manner. If you want to further explore the area after your hike, check out the nearby Plantation Trail to Grand View Point for a longer and more scenic adventure.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will enter into the tree cover and follow the path through the forest in a southeastern direction. After climbing uphill, you will eventually come to the Skyline Ridge, which will offer some beautiful views overlooking the Santa Ana River Valley.

Here, you will continue on to the southwest to a viewpoint with even more scenic views, before backtracking for the return leg. Turning more to the north, you will continue through the woodland landscape and descend past the Yellow Post #27 campsite, before eventually arriving back at the trailhead where you began.

Getting to the Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail Trailhead

The starting point for the Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail can be found 2.1 km northeast of Bluff Lake along Mill Creek Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Yellow Post #27

  • When to do

    May-November

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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Skyline and Metcalf Meadow Loop Trail Reviews

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