Canyon Dons Colors of Autumn Falling

Sure, the calendar says it’s winter, but according to the leaves in Bell Canyon, we’re just heading into the heart of fall.

The sycamore, which lives along stream beds, is probably the most conspicuous deciduous tree native to Orange County (the live oak doesn’t lose its leaves). Fall is determined more by temperature than by date: Prompted by the recent cold snap, the sycamore leaves have just started turning in the past couple of weeks.

Undeveloped canyons of the county’s hill country--such as Silverado, Trabuco, Holy Jim, Harding and Black Star canyons--are the best places to take in the rich yellows and rusts of the sycamores.

Bell Canyon is another ideal place to take in Southern California’s late autumn. It’s set in Caspers Wilderness Park, probably the county’s best park for hiking, with more than 30 miles of riding and hiking trails lacing through 7,600 acres of wilderness. Bell Canyon, originally called Canada de la Campana, was named for a large bell-shaped boulder found there. The rock was moved to the Bowers Museum in 1936.

Families, take note: Caspers is still closed to minors because of a mountain lion attack on a small girl several years ago.

The Bell Canyon Trail departs from the Old Corral Picnic Area at the end of the park road. It’s a dirt road that winds through the sycamores and willows at the canyon bottom for more than a mile. It’s crisscrossed with intersecting trails, making it possible for numerous loops and side trips from the main route.

It’s flanked on the two canyon walls by the West Ridge Trail and the East Ridge Trail, both of which offer views across the park (the West Ridge Trail traverses a narrow sandstone ridge, adding a sense of adventure). Ask for a trail map when you enter the park.

A good, easy introductory walk of about three miles combines the Bell Canyon Trail with the Oak Trail, which takes in some wonderful stands of coast live oak in addition to the sycamores. The entwined branches of the oaks create a natural roof for much of the walk.

From the parking lot, take the path marked “Nature Trail,” crossing the bed of Bell Canyon and staying on the far side. After about a mile, turn right on the dirt road that comes down from the West Ridge Trail. After about 100 feet, bear right again and follow the footpath back to the canyon bottom and the Bell Canyon Trail. Follow this back to the parking lot.

The trip makes for about an hour of easy walking, with minimal elevation gain. Birders, keep an eye out for western bluebirds, which are reportedly wintering in the county in greater-than-average numbers.

Finally, dress warmly--the canyon bottoms can stay quite cool this time of year--and wear sturdy shoes and bring water. And get ready to crunch through some leaves.

* What: Bell Canyon/Oak Trail hike.

* When: 7 a.m. to sunset daily.

* Where: Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

* Whereabouts: From Interstate 5, exit at Ortega Highway and head east into the hills. The entrance to the park is on the left after about seven miles.

* Wherewithal: Day use parking fee is $2. Camping is $10 per night.

* Where to call: (714) 728-0235.