5 miles, 1200′ gain, Intermediate
This hike is one of the most well known in Simi Valley. It contains beautiful sandstone formations throughout the hike and there are fantastic views of the valleys. There is really no way to get lost because there are no junctions. If one chooses, they can turn around and return to the beginning at any point during this climb.
The beginning and end of this hike contain continuous and steep inclines (about 1000 steps each). Still, it’s a fire road, so it’s not steeper than a truck can climb. There is nothing wrong with taking short breaks during these climbs and doing it slowly.
Fit beginners can do it but will most likely find these sections tiring. The rest of the hike also contains several sections of continuous incline, although not as steep.
I personally have led beginners on this hike. Most completed the hike, but not without some cursing and adding perhaps 30 minutes to the climb time. This is not a problem, since it is neither a race nor conditioning hike, but those that want to make a workout out of the hike are welcome to proceed ahead of the group at their own pace.
We’ll stop at the 1/3 point (0.8 miles), where the Hummingbird trail finishes into Rocky Peak. There is a bench there. We’ll let others catch up.
Then we’ll continue for 1.5 miles to a couple large rocks at the top, then past them to a flat cement platform. There, we’ll share snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772), enjoy the views, engage in a social interaction, and rest before returning. The climb to the top usually takes about an hour.
It can get windy at the top and cool in the evening, so I would recommend bringing something light to put on.
Interesting Notes:
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
California Sagebrush
Aromatic when crushed. AKA, common sage, coastal sage. Sunflower family. Cowboys used to ride through it and brush up against the pine-shaped leaves, coming home with the smell on their clothes and giving rise to the nickname “Cowboy Cologne.” Not a true sage. Can be used as a cooking spice and can be made into a tea. Tear off some needles by running your hand up the stalk and smell the aroma.
Purple Sage
Grey-green leaves. Aromatic when crushed. Purple flowers. Aka, Tobacco Sage, with mild hallucinogenic properties when smoked. Can be used as a spice or made into a tea. Tea has medicinal affects: Antiviral, gargle for sore throats, reduce hay fever symptoms and other drying actions. In the last summer, fall, and winter months, the flowers will have turned brown and the leaves we take on a greyer color.
Directions:
Rocky Peak Trail
Simi Valley, CA 93065
34.268396, -118.636139
From the 118
Exit Rocky Peak Rd.
Trailhead on the north side.
Park either at the trailhead (limited parking), or south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.
From the 101 @ CA-23
North CA-23 for 8.4 miles.
East I-118 for 14 miles.
Exit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.
Trailhead on the north side (left).
Park either at the trailhead (limited parking), or south (right) of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.
The Hike:
Distance: 5 miles, 3.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 1200′
Difficulty: Intermediate
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Yes if leashed, per State law
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No
Parking: Free at the trailhead (limited parking, not recommended as you can get a ticket after sunset for parking there) or across the freeway 500′.
Trail: Fire road.
Purpose: Social
What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
