Barranca

Barranca starts from East Boundary with a short climb with several short switchbacks. Beware of poison oak in this section. The top (mile 0.3) provides good views to the South side of Montana de Oro SP.

Right off the top, Barranca begins a steep twisty descent (12-20%). Beware of several blind corners on the upper half of the descent. The trail opens up a bit in the middle third for some great open ridgetop views before a second series of switchbacks. Near the bottom, a wide open traverse ends at a steep rocky drop and two final switchbacks before spitting out onto Islay Creek Road.

The most straightforward loop to descend Barranca goes up Hazard Peak Trail to East Boundary, Barranca, and out Islay Creek Road. Another option is to climb East Boundary (steep) for another Barranca lap or back over Hazard Peak Trail.

Barranca can also be climbed, and its steepness is a good challenge for a full mile.