Due to anticipated warm (hot?) weather I will lead us in the opposite direction from the original post. This will allow us to do most of the elevation gain at the beginning while it is cooler.
Original description (read backwards for correct hiking sequence….or just trust me). On this hike we will explore the Liberty Canyon Natural Preserve which makes up the northern quadrant of Malibu Creek State Park (MCSP). We will begin our adventure on the Liberty Canyon Fire Road (aka Las Virgenes trail), heading south along the eastern edge of the preserve to the junction of MCSP’s North Grasslands Trail. The Grasslands Trail crosses Mulholland Hwy into the center of the park where we will follow the High Road/Crags Road along picturesque Malibu Creek. Leaving stream level we will climb the ridge above Century Lake and turn off on the always scenic Lookout Trail on our way to the Cistern Trail. The Cistern Trail takes us to our second Mulholland Hwy crossing and the Phantom Trailhead. The Phantom Trail climbs up and over the western edge of Liberty Canyon Natural Preserve and back to our starting point.
This grand tour of the Liberty Canyon Natural Preserve and MCSP’s central/northern trail system will clock in at about 6.5 miles and 1100′ elevation gain.
Kathy and I scouted this hike several weeks ago. All of the trails are reasonably clear but the Phantom Trail has a few overgrown areas (long pants recommended) and the poison oak is in full leaf.
Please review the guidelines (link to the guidelines) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
- Don’t show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
- PLEASE bring plenty of water.
- Your safety is your own personal responsibility, but the hike leader reserves the right to ask you to leave if you come unprepared.
- No “Plus Ones” or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.
DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY – PLEASE READ 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.