Thedailymiaminews– The Hoyt Trail in Los Angeles County is a great option if you want to go on a frightening adventure that also has beautiful scenery. This journey, which is 4.5 miles long, will take you through a canyon with trees, past a waterfall, and to a spooky graveyard that has been deserted since the 1800s.
The Hoyt Trail: A Historical Overview
In 1878, William R. Hoyt, a pioneer, moved in the region. The Hoyt Trail was named in his honor. He constructed a cabin and a sawmill, and he also planted orchards and vines. In addition, he gave some property for a cemetery, where he and his family were buried later on.
The local population made use of the cemetery, which is sometimes referred to as the Big Tujunga Cemetery, until the 1930s. On the other hand, it was ignored and vandalized over the years, resulting in the loss or destruction of many of the tombs. Today, the only things that remain are a few headstones and wooden crosses, which are surrounded by overgrown weeds and vegetation.
The Walk to the Cemetery
The Wildwood Picnic Area in the Angeles National Forest is where the Hoyt Trail begins. The trailhead is designated by a sign that says “Hoyt Trail 10W09”. The trail runs alongside the Big Tujunga Creek, which is typically dry or shallow, except after severe rains.
The trail is largely shaded by oak, sycamore, and alder trees, and it provides views of the granite canyon walls. You will come across a tiny waterfall along the walk, which is a lovely place to stop and listen to the sound of the water. The distance from the trailhead to the waterfall is around 1.5 kilometers.
The graveyard is located on a slope to the left of the trail. It is approximately 2.25 miles from the trailhead. You will notice a sign that reads “Cemetery 0.1” and a faint trail that goes to the graveyard. Be cautious while you climb up because the terrain is steep and slippery.
The graveyard is a gloomy and eerie place, especially when compared to the canyon’s natural splendor. You will come across a number of stone markers and wooden crosses, some of which have names and dates on them, while others merely have initials. Some of the graves are surrounded by fences, while others are left open to the weather. You will also see some trash and graffiti, which is unpleasant and disrespectful.
You are welcome to visit the graveyard and pay your respects to those who lived and died there, but please be respectful and considerate while you are there. Do not touch or disturb anything, and make sure that there is no evidence that you were there. Keep in mind that this is a historical and precious place, not a place for playing around.
The Journey Back
Once you are finished visiting the graveyard, you have two options: you may either go back the way you came to the trailhead, or you can continue down the Hoyt Trail for another 1.25 miles until you reach Vogel Flats Road. From that point, you have two options. You can turn left and walk 2.5 miles along the road to the Wildwood Picnic Area, or you can turn right and walk 1.5 miles along the road to the Stonyvale Picnic Area, where you can take a shuttle bus back to your car. The route is paved and has little traffic, but be aware of automobiles and bikers.
The Hoyt Trail is a moderate journey that takes approximately three to four hours to complete, depending on how fast you go and how long you stay at the graveyard. The route is open all year long, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the weather is moderate and the flowers are in bloom. The trail is suitable for dogs, but be sure to keep your dog on a leash and well-behaved. Mountain bikers also use this trail, so be cautious of them and be sure to share the trail.
Final Thoughts
The Hoyt Trail is a one-of-a-kind and interesting journey that brings together nature and history. It provides a look at the canyon’s history and the people who lived there, as well as an opportunity to observe some animals and beautiful views. The graveyard is one of the most memorable parts of the hike, but it also serves as a reminder that life is fragile and temporary. The Hoyt Trail is an excellent choice if you want to go on a hike that is both gorgeous and eerie. Just keep in mind to be respectful and safe, and enjoy yourself.