The Gridley Trail to Nordhoff Peak hike at the Los Padres National Forest in Ojai, California is a strenuous 13.5-mile out-and-back hike with stunning views of Reyes Peak, Topatopa and the Channel Islands. This is a very popular day hike and mountain biking trail.

The hike starts off along Gridley Rd and follows the Gridley Trail, which runs up switchbacks for 5.6-miles up to Nordhoff Ridge Road. The trail passes several trail junctions along the way, but continue hiking along the Gridley Trail to stay on course. At mile 5.6 you'll reach Nordhoff Ridge Road - take a left-hand turn here and hike for another 1.2-miles to reach Nordhoff Peak.

Difficulty and Elevation Gain: The entire hike is strenuous with about 3,500-feet of elevation gain to reach Nordhoff Peak, so this hike should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Be prepared with plenty of water for the trek.

Parking: Parking can be found at the direction coordinates provided and sits along Gridley Rd in Ojai.

Biking: Mountain biking is allowed on this trail, but be careful of the day hikers.

Pets: Dogs are allowed on leash on this trail and their waste must be carried out.

For more details, check out the Norcalhiker blog post on this trip.