Trip Date: 10/6/2013
Location: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
Permit/Pass: Day use ($5), O.C. Parks Annual Pass ($55)
Trails: OC Park map, GTN Mileage Map
Directions: From Interstate 5 in San Juan Capistrano take the Ortega Hwy (CA 74) exit east. Drive just under eight miles to the park entrance on the left (north) side of the road. After passing through the entrance follow the street past several side roads to a stop sign. Turn right and continue until the road dead ends at the Bell Canyon trailhead parking lot. The trail begins just past the signboard behind the gate.
Trail sequence: Vista Ridge trail
Type: Loop
Distance: 0.1 miles
Elevation: Min. - 426', Max. - 449'
Rating: Easy
Synopsis: A quick, informative and very easy trail just across the parking lot from the Caspers visitor center. There are interpretive signs that introduce the patron to many of the plants to be found in the park. There are also very good views up and down Ortega Canyon. A good spot for kids.
Turn by Turn:
-- Next to the butterfly posts (wooden columns with excellent pictures of butterfly species) is where this short interpretive trail both begins and ends. The loop can be taken in either direction.
Photo Gallery: Caspers Vista Ridge