Spanish Broom (Spartium junceum, syn. Genista juncea), also known as Weaver’s Broom, is a perennial, leguminous shrub native to the Mediterranean region in southern Europe, southwest Asia and northwest Africa, where it is found in sunny sites, usually on dry, sandy soils. It is the sole species in the genus Spartium, but is closely related to the other brooms in the genera Cytisus and Genista.

This plant has the most fragrant flower I have ever observed. You can smell it from over 100 feet away. Spanish Broom can be found mostly between 2000 ft. and 5000 ft. range in the San Gabriel Mountains. I usually pass by it off the Angeles Crest Highway.

Stop Sign Surrounded by Spanish broom

Spanish Broom

• Highlights: Great ocean views, lovely bays, rocky shoreline
• Near: Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA
• Tide pools with abundant life
• Distance: 4 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 100 ft
• Hike Time: 3.5 hours
• Difficulty: 5/10
• Trail Condition: Rocky, mostly non-existent trail
• Best Time: Low Tide
• Trail Head: Click here for a Google map
• Rating:

Summary:
The Greek freighter Dominator ran aground at Palos Verdes point in 1961 and it is said can still be seen from the shore. The rusted hulk of this shipwreck is scattered along a half mile of the shoreline. I personally have never seen any remains of the wreck, but the tide pools and beautiful coast line are reason enough to do this hike.

Getting to the shipwreck involves a couple of miles slightly challenging and tiresome walking across shoebox to footstool sized rocks. Make sure you wear sturdy shoes for this hike. The shoreline is lovely, with interesting tide pools and rock formations, along with great views. Make sure to go at low tide, or you will find your feet getting quite wet.

At the midpoint, I scrambled up the cliffs to the road. The road was a considerably faster returning to the car.

Bluff Cove From Above

Bluff Cove Flowers

Rocky Shoreline off Bluff Cove

Rocky Trail at Bluff Cove

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Rating:

I just bought the Merrel Moab Ventilator Shoes and used them on my Yosemite trip. This is my second pair. My first pair lasted me about 10 years and was very comfortable. The traction is fine for most day hiking and the price is acceptable at $80. I have never overheated in the shoe no matter how hot the conditions. These shoes combined with Ecosox and Amfit Orthotics are a winning combination that will keep you comfortable in all kinds of terrain.

From REI:
“The highly breathable Merrell® Moab Ventilator mid-height hikers work hard on all your active warm-weather endeavors. Mid-height dura leather/nylon ventilator mesh uppers offer ample breathability, flexibility and support for long-lasting performance. Protective rubber toe bumpers ensure durability and abrasion-resistance; heel loops aid entry. Mesh padded tongue protects instep against lace pressure without inhibiting breathability. Nylon mesh linings absorb and disperse excess moisture for comfort in hot conditions. Removable 4.5mm footbeds are anatomically shaped and add cushioning for improved comfort. Full-length, compression-molded EVA midsoles supply cushioning and support for all-day wear. Air Cushion® heel pockets enhance shock-absorption under heels and help stabilize footstrike. Nylon arch shanks provide extra stability and support. Vibram® Multi-Sport™ outsole with Trek and Super Trek rubber deliver reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces.”

Moab Ventilator Shoe