This weekend, we took my son's Scout Troop & Venturing Crew for a backpacking overnight on the Gabrielino Trail. Our beginner Scouts camped at Valley Forge and more experienced Scouts continued to camp at West Fork.
My main concern was overgrown poison oak, as was previously mentioned here. Luckily, while poison oak and poodle brush were present, it was not in any way an impediment along the trail. The main challenge on the trail was at an area between Red Box and Valley Forge where the trail crosses the stream several times. This area was largely overgrown, and we got turned around here trying to keep on the trail. After some backtracking and pushing through brush, we eventually found the trail on the other side.
We dropped our beginner Scouts at Valley Forge, which is a bit overgrown with grass, but overall, a good place for our beginners. Our experienced Crew continued down toward West Fork. The trail was clear, a bit overgrown with tall grass here and there, but overall, it was easy to follow. West Fork is a nice trail camp with plenty of space and right next to the stream. The Scouts enjoyed hanging out there.
On the way back to Red Box, it's a nice steady ascent. It was a challenge for the Scouts, but they all toughed it out and made it back with fun stories to tell.
The Gabrielino trail is a beautiful trail, especially after a rainy season. I hope it continues to get the TLC it needs to continue to be maintained.
Great trip report thanks for the beta!