Towsley Tramp

Kickstart the season with a workout hike featuring outstanding panoramas, meaty switchbacks, shaded sections for cooling breaks, bizarre rock formations, and miniature tar pits. The 5.1-mile (round-trip) Towsley Canyon Loop in Ed Davis Park starts on a dirt path that passes through a meadow, before weaving through "The Narrows," an appropriately named skinny stretch that follows along a dry creek and past a spectacular wall of bubbling sandstone. Then it's up, via switchbacks with gradual inclines and scattered shade (while this hike has shaded sections, be aware that it is also partially exposed so bring lots of water if you go on a hot day). The hillside is speckled with charred tree trunks that frame the sweeping views down into Santa Clarita when you're at the top. As you descend to finish the loop, you'll pass another creek on your right. Look closely to see the natural tar tinting the water where it bubbles up from underground.

From the I-5 south of Santa Clarita, take the Calgrove exit. Turn west back under the freeway and take The Old Road south. The entrance to the park will be on your right. There are two free parking lots at the entrance, and an overflow parking lot further into the park for $7. The trailhead starts after you've walked through the $7 parking lot. Use this map, staying on the widest loop for the Towsley Canyon Loop. Dog-friendly!