ON A CLEAR NIGHT

Scott Regberg
Mirror contributing writer

   In between the recent rainstorms, cool and sweeping winds have provided for uniquely clear nights and the best views of the year.
   While some hikers are just out there for the exercise and adventure you can’t help but appreciate the dramatic coastline, views of the city lights, from Catalina to the San Fernando Valley. Although, many of the Westside trails offer variations of the same Queen’s Necklace coastline, a few of the hikes with the most admirable vantages include: 
   The top of Chautauqua with a virtual 360-degree perspective. This is a great trail with scenic plateaus along the way. The very top is a local high-point with views of everything.
   Paseo Overlook: This much used Palisades trail is a Sierra Club Friday night regular, with a safe and wide fireroad looping around the canyons to a knoll high above PCH. It’s the most westerly perspective you can find, with a clear line of sight south to Redondo Beach.
   Skull Rock: high atop Temescal, there is a distinctive outcropping with a small flat top serving as a perch above the canyon. You’ll have to do about twenty feet of minor climbing to scamper up to the crest, but it’s a popular spot for good reason. You can also get there from El Medio or Bienvenida.
   Nike Missile Site: The view of the city doesn’t get much better, but you’re some distance away from the coastline. The easy way there is to drive up Mandeville to Greenland and then hike the fireroad up. The area is now an official park, with restrooms, vending machines and telescopes. However, if you climb the tower the vantage is unparalleled, and well-worth the work.
   Fearless readers who are interested in free Monday and Wednesday night hikes should contact Scott Regberg at (310) 475-5735.