Introduction

Quigley Canyon Open Space is our go-to favorite spot when we’re looking for a quick, quiet and kid-friendly getaway. The 160-acre open space is just minutes from downtown Newhall, though it feels miles away. It’s one of those spots that can be hard to find the first time, but that’s why you have this handy dandy guide. There’s a variety of scenery here, and thankfully you don’t need to hike far to enjoy it. This area also seems to be a local favorite for portrait photographers and horse owners.

trail overview

The first few minutes of the walk take you past some private property where you’ll walk by some horse fences, but it quickly opens up into a large open space nestled in the hills. The path loops around the field in both directions, either path will eventually lead you into an oak grove on the other end of the canyon.

The “Fox’s Loop” is the section of trail that goes through the oak grove. This is a peaceful nature trail that offers some shade during those sunny days. The Northern side of the trail hugs the side of the hills. If you’re up for a challenge the “Coyote Loop” is a loop trail that branches off up the steep hillside. However, the Fox Loop is plenty fine for those simply looking for a leisurely stroll through the trees. Sometimes birds of prey or acorn woodpeckers can be spotted in this area, perched high up in the branches.

One fun feature of Quigley Canyon is the dry creekbed that runs through the property. Our 18-month old loved sitting here and digging through the sand. It’s not hard to imagine how gorgeous the area would be if water were actually running through it. Someone has even taken the liberty of putting together a crafty, makeshift bridge just North of the field.

There are several other trails that run through the South/Southeast part of the property (the City Loop and Rawlins Loop). We have yet to explore these trails, as they look to have more elevation gain.

Logistics

Getting here can be a little confusing the first time around. If you type “Quigley Canyon Open Space” in Google Maps, it will attempt to take you the completely wrong way, through a closed fence off of Golden Valley Road, this is not the correct way. If you simply type in “Quigley Canyon”, it should take you the correct way off of Railroad Ave in Newhall, with street parking on Cleardale St.

Parking is on the South side of the street, and thankfully free. Please be mindful of the private residence on the opposite side of the street, it is clearly marked that there is no parking on the North side of the street.

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Additional info can be found at the Quigley Canyon Page at the "Hike Santa Clarita" Website. You can download a PDF of the official trail map, learn more info/history about the trail, as well as view some additional photos of the open space.