Whitaker Peak Via Oak Flat Trail
DESCRIPTION: How many hikes have you been on recently where can you see three beautiful lakes (like Piru, Pyramid, and Castaic), great back country and summit views as well as burn maybe 2,000 calories? This is a local gem just off the Templin Highway exit which I recently hiked with friends (most of the gain is in the first 1.5 miles) and so know it’s also in good condition (including a wash out we’ll navigate around).
Hike leader volunteers: Tim R. + Nancy H.
Meet: 38001 Golden State Hwy, Castaic, CA at 8:00am, departure at 8:15 am sharp (Feb 17).
Distance: Approximately 9.4 miles.
Elevation gain: Approximately 1,994 feet.
Time: Approximately 5 hours hiking (at a brisk pace) including a snack break.
Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition (this is not a beginner hike).
Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Restrooms – None.
Adventure Pass: Not required.
WARNINGS:
- No stream crossings.
ESSENTIAL GEAR:
· Hiking shoes/boots/poles.
· Layers recommended. Bring warm jacket.
· Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets; camera, hat and sunscreen.
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3, Intermediate (see chart below):
CHC HIKE RANKING SCALE – Consider your capabilities before RSVP’ing for a hike to ensure you are properly conditioned for that hike and a brisk pace:
1) Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2) Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3) Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4) Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5) Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION:
Camp Verdugo Oaks:
38001 Golden State Hwy, Castaic, CA 91384
Driving Directions (link)
This is a local hike and drive time should be short.
FILE DOWNLOADS
We highly recommend AllTrails or GAIA apps be installed on your cell phones so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to.
GPS Trail Map (link for downloadable mobile version)
Recommended Gear List for Hiking and Survival Safety (link) (please review to determine if you are carrying appropriate gear on your hiking adventures).
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.
