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B.F.I. Trail in Crystal Cove State Park

Laguna Beach, California

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

0.78 miles

Elevation Gain

125 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Crystal Cove State Park has over 2,400 acres of coastal canyons, woodlands, beaches and mountains that feature breathtaking views up and down the California coast. The B.F.I. Trail, aka the "Big Fat Incline", leads directly up Moro Ridge from the beach, giving the quickest (and best) views by the most strenuous route. 

To get to the trailhead, enter Crystal Cove State Park through the Crystal Cove El Moro Campground entrance immediately next to El Moro Elementary School. Follow the road behind the school which leads to the main gate where you will need to pay a day-use parking fee of $15.

Drive past the Campground and down into El Moro canyon to the day-use parking. The trailhead is on the northeast side of the parking lot, opposite the tunnel under the PCH that provides beach access. The trailhead is shared with the El Moro Canyon Trail.

The trail goes partially into El Moro Canyon and then immediately begins a steep ascent up El Moro Ridge. After about .5 miles it intersects with the El Moro Ridge Trail, leading deeper into the Park and connecting with the trail system of the Laguna Coast Wilderness

The entire Crystal Cove State Park trail system is excellent for hiking, running, and mountain biking.

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Family Friendly
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Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Reviews

When I moved back to California from living in amazing Chicago for 6.5 years I decided to prevent getting depressed about moving back by embracing what California winters have to offer. Last years winter was mild in comparison to this years winter so I was able to do a lot of hiking and this was one of the first hikes I did when I moved back. And the views you get while hiking this trail is absolutely breathtaking. It's a total must for anyone wanting to get out for a few hours. It's now one of my favorites.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Crystal Cove Loop Trail

El Moro Canyon Trail

El Moro Canyon Trail to Lower Moro Campground

Photograph the Pacific Coast Highway over Crystal Cove Beach

Crystal Cove Beach Loop

Emerald Canyon & Bommer Ridge Loop