Conejo Canyons Moderate Hike – Hill Canyon to Lichen Trail

This moderately strenuous 6.8 mile hike with about 1000′ of climbing starts in Hill Canyon and climbs to the top of the Lichen Trail, at the peak of the ridge that separates the Western Plateau from the Santa Rosa Valley, where you’ll have amazing views in all directions. At this point, you’ll be ten feet shy of the highest point on the ridge that surrounds the Western Plateau and 150′ higher than the top of Lizard Rock in Wildwood.

Start at the parking area on Hill Canyon road, cross the bridge and hike south on Hill Canyon Trail for a mile before turning right and up the Western Plateau Edison Rd. After 0.6 miles, turn right again and follow the unnamed trail (known locally as the “Outlaw Trail”) around to the right (southeast), soon bending north. About a third of a mile along, there is a short spur to the right that leads to an overlook of Hill Canyon. Continuing up, bear left at the Elliott Mountain Trail which is to the right. 250 yards past the Elliott Mountain Trail, the Lichen Trail forks off to the right. It drops down to a saddle then switchbacks up a steep face to the top. Pause for a few minutes to enjoy the view and have a snack (or lunch!), turn around and retrace your path to get back to your car.

From Moorpark Road in the Santa Rosa Valley, drive west on Santa Rosa Road for 3.7 miles, turn left (south) on Hill Canyon Road for about 0.6 miles to the parking lot on the right.

From the 101 Freeway in Camarillo, take exit 52 onto Santa Rosa Road and drive northeast. After 5 miles, turn right onto Hill Canyon Rd. Continue to the parking on the left, 0.6 miles on.

Map of This Hike