Nice little seasonal pond

The Old Santa Susana Stage Road – Andora Trail loop from Chatsworth offers a rugged and rewarding jogging experience through a landscape rich in history. You'll navigate a steep dirt road that can be rocky, gravelly, or sandy underfoot, passing by distinctive sandstone crags and native flora like buckwheat and sagebrush. From higher points, expect sweeping panoramic views of the San Fernando and Simi Valleys, making the 1138 feet (347 metres) of elevation gain feel well worth the effort.

Planning your visit is key for this difficult 7.7-mile (12.4 km) route, which typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. Given its exposed nature, with little shade, it's highly recommended to tackle this trail during cooler months or early in the morning to avoid the intense summer heat, which can easily top 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure you bring ample water, as there are no facilities along the way, and check for parking availability near the Chatsworth trailhead.

This trail is more than just a workout; it's a journey through California's past. The Old Santa Susana Stage Road was a vital stagecoach route between Los Angeles and San Francisco from 1861 to 1876, even serving the Butterfield Overland Mail during the Civil War. You'll literally be jogging on a path listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where early travelers once endured challenging sections like the infamous "Devil's Slide," making it a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.