Towsley Canyon - Don Mullaly
The presence of the Tataviam tribe – early, industrious dwellers of the Santa Clarita Valley – can still be felt during a visit to Ed Davis Park in Towsley Canyon.
There are natural caves and rock formations, a seasonal creek, and tar pits once tapped by the Tataviam for basket weaving and healing practices. From the slot canyon area known as the Narrows, ascend the Don Mullally Trail via long switchbacks to sweeping views of the valley and Santa Susana Mountains.
The bench appears on the trail’s south side at a welcoming clearing framed by fragrant white sagebrush.
The calls of scrub jays, lark sparrows and red-tailed hawks might mingle with the distant whoosh of traffic from the Golden State Freeway as you take in views of the Santa Clarita Woodlands and chaparral-dotted San Gabriel Mountains. A reminder of the multi-layered habitat you just traversed.
Bench coordinates - 34°20'49.6"N 118°34'13.1"W
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The bench can be reached via the 5.5-mile Don Mullally Loop Trail, which begins near Towsley Lodge.
There is limited shade; bring sunscreen, hats and plenty of water.
You may sometimes share the trail with mountain bikers and leashed dogs.
Highlights include uninhibited mountain views, natural tar pits, slot canyons and rock formations, plus a seasonal stream.
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24335 The Old Road, Newhall; free parking on The Old Road and in the Towsley Canyon parking lot just inside the park.
There is also a public bathroom and fee parking near Towsley Lodge closer to the trailhead, but most visitors opt to park in the first lot or The Old Road.
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For the counterclockwise loop, follow the paved trail west past public restrooms and Towsley Lodge, a private event space, on the left. The path turns to dirt as it follows a seasonal stream and enters the Narrows area of the park.
At about 1.5 miles, the trail bends to the south and ascends via long switchbacks to scenic vistas and a peak elevation of 2,400 ft. The bench is just off the trail after it begins its descent, about 2 miles from the main parking lot.
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From the I-405 freeway, head north to the Golden State Freeway (I-5) and follow it approximately 6.5 miles to Calgrove Boulevard in Santa Clarita. Turn left onto Calgrove and continue onto The Old Road for 0.2 mile to Towsley Canyon Road. Turn right into the Towsley Canyon parking lot.
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