After the normal morning walk in the neighborhood, we loading Train (our black lab) into the car along with some towels and a few snacks and headed out. Rose Valley is off Highway 33, about 13 miles north of Ojai. Its a scenic drive and the hills are alive with California Lilac, Spanish Broom (I think?) which rumor has it, is an invasive plant, as well as a variety of colorful wildflowers.
Arriving at the Rose Valley turn off, a quick drive to the lower lake and a right turn up to the Rose Valley camp put us as the trail head. This hike is beautiful but very short, so don't think you're going to get a workout. Unless of course you come prepared with technical climbing gear and plan to ascend to the top of the cliff where the upper fall originates. Either way, its always best to exercise caution when hiking around water, moss, large rocks and lots of talus.
Easter break was ending for a lot of local families and the campsite was full which meant the trail was also crowded. Lots of people hanging out at the upper falls but we were still able to enjoy the cascading water and watch as some guys walked behind the falls to seek out the hidden caves and apparently a Geocache. Next time, I'll be looking for them!
As always Train had a blast running up and down the sides of the trail and in and out of the many pools generated by the falling water and we had a blast watching him. After a quick snack (and a treat for the dog) we heading back down the trail to the lower lakes where Train decided to take a bath. If only he were so enthusiastic when actual soap is involved!
A quick toweling off and we were loaded back in the car and on our way home. With more rain on the horizon, the falls are likely to swell in the coming week providing even more spectacular views with hardly any effort on the part of the hiker!
Enjoy...
I would enjoy hearing how your Mt. Whitney excursion went. -Dave
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