Fox Canyon, Foothill, and Luci's Trail Loop

Parking is conveniently located at the end of Signal Street in Ojai, California. This is where the unpaved Shelf Road begins, which is part of the loop.

Yes, dogs are permitted on this trail within the Valley View Preserve, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Spring is an excellent time to visit, as you'll have ample opportunities to see wildflowers blooming. The views are spectacular year-round, but consider cooler months for more comfortable jogging, as southern slopes can be exposed.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the 195-acre Valley View Preserve, including the Fox Canyon, Foothill, and Luci's Trail Loop.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, from mostly accessible paths like parts of Shelf Road, to narrow paths, loose gravel, and large rocks, especially on Luci's Trail. Fox Canyon Trail features gradual inclines and switchbacks.

Luci's Trail is generally considered the most difficult part of the loop. It is short, very steep, and features unstable gravel and large rocks, requiring careful foot placement. Joggers may find themselves needing to walk this section due to its challenging nature.

This loop offers breathtaking and panoramic views of the Ojai Valley, surrounding mountains, and even downtown Ojai in the distance. You'll also pass through picturesque avocado and orange groves, chaparral-covered slopes, and interesting rock formations.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll jog along parts of Shelf Road, Luci's Trail, Fox Canyon Trail, Foothill Trail, and Fuel Break Road.

The Valley View Preserve provides opportunities to see local wildlife. While specific sightings vary, you might encounter various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles common to the chaparral and grove environments of the Ojai Valley.

The overall loop is considered moderate to difficult due to significant elevation changes and varied terrain, particularly the steep and rocky Luci's Trail. While some sections are more manageable, beginners might find the full loop challenging and may need to walk certain parts.

For an average jogger, the loop typically takes around 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. However, this can vary based on fitness level and how much time is spent enjoying the views or navigating challenging sections like Luci's Trail.