[singlepic id=10 w=320 h=240 mode=watermark float=right]This morning as I was finishing my usual 5.5-mile trail running loop at El Moro, I decided to veer at the big bridge at the base of the El Moro Canyon route to see what the new beach access was all about. (Now, as I tell you about this, keep in mind that I’ve finished my inland run of El Moro and am now heading west/southwest toward the ocean to complete the running loop.)
For a couple years now, the state has been working on creating access to RVs and travelers by providing campgrounds on the El Moro side (nestled right next to PCH) with pedestrian tunnel access to Crystal Cove’s beautiful coastline. For me, I’d rather still be seeing the rickety-rack, well-loved mobile homes that stood there for decades, but the state didn’t seem to see eye-to-eye with us on that notion. Now, with the “campground” opening up to several layers of parking lots, restrooms, walking paths and more, we’re definitely going to see a new kind of community spring up.
For my fellow trail runners, I’ll focus on the newfound positives . . . as I noted, on the inland side of the big bridge, you’ll find an asphalt trail that winds through the trees to the new campgrounds. Follow the path and aim for the tunnel, and you’ll break on through to the other side. And what a view it is, with Crystal Cove’s gorgeous beaches and milder surf breaks (at least today).
This new tunnel access from the El Moro side allows for a great sand run a good half mile or so north, with either a steep incline hill or formidable wooden stairs to get you up level again with PCH. Simply cross PCH at the El Moro stoplight and you’ll be on your way back to the parking lot on the El Moro side where you started.
If you’d rather not venture into the sand, you can simply follow the asphalt sidewalks around the new inland campground at El Moro and eventually wind up on the far side of the big bridge, essentially adding a short, flat run into your routine before heading up the small dirt hill and back to the parking lot.
Enjoy your jaunt at El Moro!