Hike Description (Intermediate/Strenuous)
We will be exploring one of the most beautiful areas of the Santa Monica Mountains. From the Sandstone Peak Parking lot we will begin with an ascent to Sandstone Peak (the highest point of the Santa Monica Mountains, 3111′ above sea level) and then veer off to the right, taking the Mishe Mokwa loop. As we hike Mishe Mokwa we will be passing Inspiration Point, the (real) Boney Mountain, Tri-Peaks, pass Split Rock, and then see Echo Cliffs, where rock climbers ascend sheer cliffs, and a house sized boulder balances delicately on a small rock beneath. This route will give us a total of about 6.5 miles,and approximately 1500′ elevation gain as we go up and down.
Directions: at least 30 minutes from 101/Westlake Boulevard
From Westlake Village, exit 101 onto Westlake Blvd (CA-23 South), and follow it south for approximately 7 miles to stop sign for Mulholland West (Note: Westlake Blvd. will merge with Mulholland East before you reach the stop sign). At the stop sign, turn right onto Mulholland (West) for about 0.4 miles. Turn right onto Little Sycamore Canyon, which becomes Yerba Buena Road after 1.4 miles, for 4 1/2 miles to Sandstone Peak trailhead. The Sandstone Peak lot is on the right side of the road. Look for large Sandstone Peak sign. The parking lot is above Yerba Buena Road and there is a bathroom at the end of the parking lot. If you pass the Circle X Ranch, you went too far. Turn around!!
Alternately, from Pacific Coast Highway take Yerba Buena Road (near Neptune’s Net) approximately 7 miles (passing the Circle X Ranch. Note: Sandstone Peak trailhead is approximately 1 mile from the Circle X Ranch). OR HWY 23 (Decker Cyn – 4 miles west of Point Dume), turn onto Mulholland and follow directions as shown above.
Note: This is a very slow driving route (narrow, with sharp turns) and will take 30 minutes from the 101 to the parking lot. Give yourself plenty of time. Cell reception is marginal (at best) up there, so we won’t be waiting on any “I’m late” calls.
Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes and a sun hat. Please consider bringing the 10 essentials ().
Our departure time is 8:30 a.m. Please plan on arriving by 8:15 to use the restroom, get your boots and backpack on in time.
Do NOT leave anything of value in your car, at this or any other trailhead.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
