Come and Join me on my Christmas Break for an afternoon Intermediate (2.5 to 3 miles per hour) hike near Placerita Canyon Nature Center.
Los Pinetos is one of my favorite trails that was destroyed a few years ago by a fire but has since regrown and is ready for us.
Just a note here: I have not hiked it since January 2020 after it was first reopened, but have hiked it many times before that and the trail was similar as before.
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1800′
Difficulty: Intermediate due to pace, length and steepness
Dogs: No
Restrooms: Maybe a pit toilet at trailhead
Water Fountain: No
Parking: Free on street, a little limited but up the road is a dirt lot about 1/4 of mile in case there is no room by the trailhead
Trail: Out and back
Sunset: 4:50 bring a light just to be safe
Weather: Unusual windy, rainy or heat will cancel the hike
Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, slip-‘n-fall, poison oak, are all on this hike. There is an exposed steep hill at the beginning of the hike where you will overheat even on a cool day, it levels out after that into more shade and less steepness.
Bring: Make sure you wear proper hiking attire especially shoes and bring poles if you need them. An extra layer in case it gets chilly, sunscreen, hat sunglasses for the exposed areas, also a snack for your break at the top, light just to be safe!
I suggest 2-3 liters of water, some of the exposed steep parts of the trail you will be glad you have more water.
Directions: Coming from the 5 freeway take 14 North get off at Placerita Canyon exit. Follow signs to the nature center but do no turn in there. Go past the nature center on Placerita Canyon a few miles then on the Right will be a trailhead, be careful as it is possible to drive right past it. If cars are parked near it then you will notice it.
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER / RULES
Please follow the guidelines under the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). https://covid19.ca.gov/
COVID information for Ventura and LA counties:
• https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/
• http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/
Your participation means you agree with the observance of mandated COVID-19 safety measures and you agree to follow these rules:
• Each participant will observe social distancing of 6 ft. among ourselves.
• It is required to carry a mask and wear it through the duration of the hike. Of course we remove our masks when we can but…
• Be considerate and wear your mask when near each other or near other hikers passing by.
• Cover your mouth with your elbow if you need to sneeze or cough.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
• You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
• If you choose to sign up for any event, you are releasing the organizers of PM Hikers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
• The organizers of PM Hikers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being.
• Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
• Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
