Mattingly Trail to Old Santa Susana Stagecoach Road

The Mattingly Trail is located within Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park. While specific parking details aren't provided, state parks typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the park's official website for the most current information on trailhead access and parking facilities.

The Mattingly Trail itself is a 0.9-mile dirt path. As it merges with the Old Santa Susana Stagecoach Road, the terrain becomes more varied, featuring rocky, gravelly, and solid rock sections. You'll encounter massive sandstone outcroppings from the 68-75 million-year-old Chatsworth Formation. A particularly notable section, 'Devil's Slide,' is narrow, steep, and rough, sometimes requiring careful footing.

This route is rich in history. You'll walk along a critical section of the Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Route, which was also an ancient Indian trail and part of the first El Camino Real. Look for visible wagon ruts deeply carved into the sandstone, especially on 'Devil's Slide,' a tangible reminder of countless journeys. There are also historical markers, including a tiled sign from 1939. Panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley and Simi Valley are a highlight, and you can spot train tracks and the Santa Susana Tunnel below.

The area is classified as California Coastal Sage and Chaparral. You'll observe diverse plant life including rocks, mosses, lichens, grasses, and oak trees. Expect to see perennial plants like chamise and yucca (be mindful of their sharp spines). Poison oak can be present, particularly at the northern end. If there's been recent rainfall, you might even spot rare seasonal waterfalls. The park also features a 'Primary Historic Area,' a lovely open meadow frequented by birds and butterflies.

While the trail can be hiked year-round, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. After recent rainfall, you might have the rare opportunity to see seasonal waterfalls. Summer can be very hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended if hiking during that season.

As this trail is within Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park, dogs are generally permitted on leash on designated trails. However, it's always best to confirm current regulations directly with the park before your visit to ensure compliance.

Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park typically does not charge an entrance fee for day use. However, parking fees may apply in some areas. No specific permits are mentioned for general hiking. It's always a good idea to check the official California State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on fees and regulations.

'Devil's Slide' is a particularly notable section of the Old Santa Susana Stagecoach Road. It is described as narrow, steep, and rough, sometimes requiring nearly a scramble. Historically, it was so treacherous that stagecoach passengers often had to disembark and walk. Be prepared for careful footing and a challenging climb or descent depending on your direction of travel.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Old Santa Susanna Stagecoach Road, Mattingly Trail, Waterfall Trail, Andora Trail, and Lower Meadow Trail, offering opportunities to explore different parts of the park.

Beyond the historical wagon ruts and panoramic views, you might encounter a Nice little seasonal pond if there has been recent rainfall. The 'Primary Historic Area' is also a lovely open meadow to experience.

The Mattingly Trail to Old Santa Susana Stagecoach Road, as described, primarily follows a path that connects these two segments. While the full route description doesn't explicitly state a loop, many trails in the park offer options for out-and-back or connecting to other trails for a longer loop. It's best to consult a detailed park map for specific loop possibilities.