Sage Ranch: Simi Valley's Hidden Gem

Just when we thought we'd exhausted all other wilderness and unknown terrain in the San Fernando Valley there was Sage Ranch. One week ago, Kim did some digital exploration on Google Maps and stumbled on this beauty. A few hurried phone calls after work, we set out for a drive down some crazy turns and steep grades. A few times we uttered, "what the...where did we end up?" but we stayed committed and before we knew it we had already entered this gem of a park.
Technically this park is located directly between the San Fernando and Simi Valleys laying directly on the Ventura-LA County line. The entrance to this park lies on Woolsey Canyon Rd and Black Canyon Road (Google it). What is usually dry, dusty terrain in the Summer, is covered in lush blooming sage, chaparral, and natural grass in Spring. Within the first minute you'll notice the large sandstone, a dominant feature that adds to the potential of this park.

This is a beautiful park that is very accessible to any one ready to get some sun! Come stoked with a curious and adventurous attitude and prepare to have a great time.

Some more local fauna blooming, adding to the beauty of this desert landscape.

Entering the park we also noticed a nice little feature that definitely surprised Kim and I. Campgrounds. Quite a few campgrounds. All shaded with charcoal grills that were ready to
 use, except for a few that were locked. Although, it is important to note that there is this sign. "Group Camping Only", well I sure don't plan on doing any one man trips. Looks like I'm in the clear, right? Ha. I'm not recommending anything.

Yes, this park has a trail. Yes, we recommend all hikers to stay on the trail but the vegetation is hearty and low maintenance. As we are all aspiring climbers and mountaineers, we look forward to absailing these boulders. Belays will be set in place and we will all come home- hopefully with a few bumps and bruises.

You can get a wonderful view of the surroundings by scrambling up a few boulders. Watch your step and you'll be fine!

There are also countless caves, nooks, and crannies to explore in this park. Go, dig deep in this park. 

My few words of warning:

• Bring water! 1-2 liters should be just fine for a few hours here. There is access to water fountains at camp.
• Watch for snakes. Signs are posted everywhere, don't be aggressive in your exploration, respect the land!
• Keep an eye out for Poison Oak! Leaves of three let them be. Seriously.
• Don't litter. Don't Graffiti. Don't break Glass.

 Go check this place out, don't be bummed if you make a wrong turn. Enjoy the ride, you're going somewhere new!