Last Chance Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Waterfall

From the junction with Santa Paula Canyon Trail, turn left to head west briefly. This will take you to The Punchbowl, a popular spot to hang out, swim, and enjoy the waterfall. People frequently jump from ledges along The Punchbowl; however, as the depth of the hole may vary due to debris build up, this is not recommended.

Beyond The Punchbowl, the trail can be pretty rugged and washed out, so use caution if continuing further. From The Punchbowl, the trail turns north; Cross Camp is about 0.25 miles north of the intersection with Santa Paula Canyon Trail and is a good alternative to Big Cone Camp. Just north of the camp are a few nice pools, falls, and natural water slides that may be a little less crowded.

Continuing on Last Chance Trail leads hikers to Jackson Camp at 1.84 miles from the junction, and Last Chance Camp about 4.5 miles from the junction. At the intersection with Topa Topa Bluff Trail, stay right to continue north on Last Chance Trail. The trail ends 7.7 miles from the junction with Santa Paula Canyon Trail at the intersection with Red Reef Trail.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.