Location map for the San Onofre area

 

The purpose of this trip is to explore the geologic hazards in the San Onofre Area related to fault activity and soft-sediment slumping.  The Cristianitos Fault has a spectacular exposure here and it is observed in close proximity to the San Onofre Nuclear Powerplant.  What threat does it pose to the nuclear powerplant? The slumping in the Monterey Formation makes the beach (near the cliffs) very dangerous here and is eroding the sea-cliff towards the day-use area, the railroad, and Interstate 5. How long until there is damage to the railroad or the freeway?  These questions and more will be answered on this fieldtrip.

   

The area itself is approximately 2 miles south of Basilone Road and just inside of the day-use area (see the entrance station above) in San Onofre. We park at the Trail #1 head.

 

We start hiking on Trail #1 towards the top of the sea cliff, then down the service road/trail to the beach.  The Cristianitos Fault exposure is about 1000 feet down the beach to the north. Note: the Echo Arch Camp is off-limits due to slumping, so do not enter this area.

 

 

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