Here is the hiking info for this Sunday, 3/13/11,
Bane Canyon
Directions: Take the 71 freeway, exit Soquel Canyon Road, and head west toward the hills; turn left onto Elinvar, left onto Sapphire and right onto the dirt road that heads two miles to the Rolling M Ranch.
Bane Canyon is the only entrance in which visitors can drive into the Chino Hills State Park. Get ready for a driving experience that harkens back to the good 'ol days. As soon as you turn off of Sapphire Road, a nice paved city street, you will encounter a dirt and gravel road.
You will have a bumpy ride ahead of you so the rule to remember is drive very SLOWLY. The speed limit inside the Park at all times is 15 miles per hour. The first part of Bane Canyon Road is very steep and narrow. Not only can you encounter other vehicles, but bikers, hikers and horse back riders can pop up just around the next corner. Drivers heading up the hill should yield at appropriate pull outs for drivers coming down the hill.
After about a ½ mile up the first hill on Bane Canyon Road, you will see the kiosk. During weekends, a State Park staff member is available to collect the appropriate fees. If the kiosk is not manned, there is an "iron ranger" that you can used to deposit your fees. Also, always be sure to take a look at the activity board to find out what events will be taking place at the Park.
Much of the Bane Canyon follows a wooded riparian area of willows, sycamores and oaks. Not only does it provide for beautiful scenery, but it also provides wonderful habitat for numerous birds and animals. If you are new to the Park, we recommend that you take a walk down Bane Canyon to appreciate the plant and animal life.
It is hard to believe that at this part of Bane Canyon you are only about 1½ miles from the "hustle and bustle" of urban life. It is this rural atmosphere and the natural landscape that encourage many people to spend time in the Park. This tranquil setting provides a quick getaway for those of use who want a momentary escape from our everyday modern lifestyles.
I would suggest we meet at the end of the Sapphire Road, beginning of the dirt road at 7:30 AM. So we can either walk in, or car pool inside of the park.
After the hiking, we will meet at Rowland Heights - The Boiling Crab for beers.