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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220208T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220208T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220126T212851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220126T212851Z
UID:10000543-1644343200-1644355800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Palo Comado Lollipop - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:4.6 miles\, 900′ gain\, easy-intermediate. \nThis route takes us through a beautiful canyon via a counter-clockwise lollipop. Most of the hike has a clear view of the sky\, with a few parts that have tree cover. We’ll be stopping at the half-way point for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nWe’ll start at the Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead (coordinates: 34.182480\,-118.751785) and head east for 1/2 mile along the Doubletree Connector Trail. We’ll turn left and head north along the Palo Comado for about 1 mile. We’ll turn right (east) onto the Dead Cow Trail for 0.8 miles\, where we’ll come to an overlook on the left. \nThere\, we’ll stop for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). Then we’ll continue down the Sheep Corral trail for about 700′\, turning left back onto the Palo Comado trail. From there\, we’ll head south 1.75 miles and turn right (west) onto the Doubletree Connector Trail and the final 1/2 mile back to the trailhead. \nHikeDistance: 4.6 milesGain: 900′Distribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.Shape: Lollipop\, counter-clockwise.Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire road and single track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.Trail Variations:Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.Several steep sections of 300 steps\, but no hands required.Duration: 3.5 hoursDogs: Yes.Restrooms: NoDrinking Fountains: No.Parking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring:1 liter of water for every 3 miles.Hiking shoes/bootsFlashlight or headlamp.Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.Snack and Beverage Share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)). \nStops:The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation:Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nInteresting Notes \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nBlack SageMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \nYellow Star ThistleThorny. Also called yellow cockspur and golden star thistle. Generally considered a weed. Long-term ingestion by horses causes a neurological disorder known as chewing disease\, a lethal lesion of the nigropallidal region of the brain. This disease is expressed as a twitching of the lips\, tongue flicking\, and involuntary chewing. Permanent brain damage is possible\, and affected horses may starve to death. Used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers. In a laboratory study\, aqueous extracts of fresh or dried flowers of yellow star thistle given orally showed significant antiulcerogenic activity in rats. \nDirections (Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead): \nFrom I-101:I-101\, exit Kanan Rd.Kanan Rd. north for 2 miles.Right (east) on Sunnycrest Dr. for 0.6 miles.Continue on Doubletree Rd. for 0.l miles.Trailhead on the right\, park along the street. \nFrom CA-118\, CA-23:I-118 west.I-23 south for 4.8 miles\, exit Avenida de Los Arboles.Left (east) on Avenida del Los Arboles for 1.6 miles.Right (south) on N. Westlake Blvd for 1.5 miles.Left (east) on Kanan Rd. for 4.2 miles.Left (north-east) on Deerhill Rd. for 0.3 miles.Right at second cross street onto Doubletree Rd for 0.5 miles.Trailhead on the left\, park along the street. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.182480\,-118.751785Address of a nearby house: 713 Quail View Court\, Oak Park\, CA 91377 \nRelease of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/palo-comado-lollipop-easy-intermediate/
LOCATION:Doubletree/Sunnycrest Trailhead\, Oak Springs Drive & Doubletree Road\, Oak Park\, CA\, 91377\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220210T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220210T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220127T212840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220127T212840Z
UID:10000549-1644516000-1644528600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Chivo Tar Pits lollipop - Easy Intermediate with beginner option
DESCRIPTION:4.75 miles\, 700′ gain\, easy-intermediate.Option for 3 miles\, 300′ gain\, easy. 30 minute wait while group completes the loop back to this spot. \nWe start with a 1/4 mile walk from where we park along Cottonwood Dr\, to the trail head. There we make a left and take a relatively flat section and hike for about 3/4 mile. We’ll come to the same tar pits as the Tapo Canyon tar pit hike\, and then continue for another 300 feet to a fire road. \nWe’ll turn left and make a gradual climb for 1 mile\, about 450′ of incline. At the top\, we’ll go straight and head back down for 3/4 mile\, stopping for a social event for 30-60 minutes when we arrive at the next junction. Please bring food and drink to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nNext we’ll turn back and head the way we came down a mostly flat section for about a mile until we arrive back at the trail head. Then another 1/4 mile walk along Cottonwood Drive back to our cars. \nThere is a map of the route posted with this event. \nDirections:5079 Westwood St.Simi Valley\, CA 93063Park on the street. \nThe Hike:Distance: 4.75 miles\, option for 3 miles.Elevation Gain: 700′\, option for 300′.Difficulty: Easy Intermediate (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781).Pace: 2.0 mphDogs: Yes.Restrooms: No.Drinking Fountains: NoParking: Free\, along the neighborhood streets.Trail: Single Track\, Double Track\, and fire road.Purpose: Social \nWhat 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. The last 30 minutes may get dark. \nDisclaimer / Release of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/chivo-tar-pits-lollipop-easy-intermediate-with-beginner-option/
LOCATION:5079 Westwood St\, 5079 Westwood St\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220215T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220215T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220211T031543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220211T031543Z
UID:10001011-1644948000-1644960600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Hill Canyon - Hawk Lollipop - Easy Intermediate\, beginner option
DESCRIPTION:5.3 miles\, 600′ gain\, Easy-Intermediate\n2 miles\, 100′ gain\, Beginner \nWe start by crossing a bridge into a wooded area and continue down a relatively flat path alongside a stream. After about a mile\, we’ll come to a junction. \nFor those that want the full hike\, we’ll turn right and complete a 3 mile loop with 500′ of gain\, stopping just before the end of the loop for a social event at the picnic table on the left. \nThe social event that will last 60 minutes\, sharing snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nFor those that want to keep it beginner\, pass the junction and continue for 1/4 mile and no gain. That same picnic table will be on the right. \nFor the return\, we continue the loop for 1/4 mile\, then a relatively flat walk back for about a mile. \nHike Distance: 5.3 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the second quarter.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road.\nTrail Variations: The first mile is flat.\nAll of the trail is well groomed and not rugged.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes\, at trailhead\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in lot next to trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. The route is posted as a photo with this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nInteresting Notes \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nWild Oats \nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \nRed Brome \nGrass like with thorny appearing tops. A sub-species of foxtail chess. Can lead to flash fires. Winter fires don’t kill the seeds. \nDirections: \nHill Canyon Trailhead\n10241 Hill Canyon Road (address is before trailhead\, continue to gravel lot on left)\nSanta Rosa Valley\, CA 93012\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.226495\, -118.930374 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west to CA-23 south.\nExit 19 Tierra Rejada Rd.\, turn right (west) for 0.5 miles\nLeft (south) on Moorpark Rd. for 1.4 miles.\nRight on Santa Rosa Rd. for 3.7 miles.\nLeft on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nFrom CA-101 (from Camarillo and farther west):\nExit Santa Rosa Rd. north for 4.9 miles.\nTurn right (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nFrom CA-23 and CA-101 (from Thousand Oaks):\nNorth on CA-12 for 3.1 miles.\nExit 16 Sunset Hills Blvd. and left (west) for 0.9 miles.\nLeft (west) on E. Olsen Rd. for 0.8 miles.\nRight (north) on N. Moorpark Rd. for 1.9 miles.\nContinue on Santa Rosa Rd. west for 3.7 miles.\nTurn left (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nDisclaimer / Release of Liability:\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/hill-canyon-hawk-lollipop-easy-intermediate-beginner-option-3/
LOCATION:Hill Canyon Trailhead\, 10241 Hill Canyon Road\, Camarillo\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.2296748;-118.9319055
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220217T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220217T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220211T031543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220211T031543Z
UID:10001012-1645120800-1645133400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:China Flats - Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3 miles\, 1000′ gain\, Intermediate. \nThe entire first half is an incline. Nothing super steep\, but beginners will find this climb exhausting. Fit beginners can still complete this hike\, as we’ll be stopping at junctions to let everybody catch up. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike. \nThere are several routes that can be taken\, and the one I’ll be taking is posted as part of this description. At the top\, we’ll stop for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) lasting 30-60 minutes. \nFor the return\, part of the route will be the same\, but the last segment will be different. \nHike\nDistance: 3 miles\nGain: 1000′\nDistribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Intermediate.\nShape: Upside down Y.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road and single track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations: The entire first half is an incline.\nSeveral extended inclines of 1000 steps.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnack and Beverage Share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \nRoute: \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)). \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nDirections: \nFrom I-101:\nI-101\, exit Lindero Canyon Rd.\nLindero Canyon Rd. north for 3 miles.\nTrailhead on the left\, park along the street between King James Ct. and Wembly Ave. \nFrom CA-118\, CA-23:\nI-118 west.\nI-23 south for 4.8 miles\, exit Avenida de Los Arboles.\nLeft (east) on Avenida del Los Arboles for 1.6 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Westlake Blvd for 1.5 miles.\nLeft (east) on Kanan Rd. for 2.6 miles.\nleft (north) on Lindero Canyon Rd. for almost 1 mile.\nTrailhead on the left\, park along the street between King James Ct. and Wembly Ave. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.193632\, -118.775241\nAddress of a nearby house: 5405 Wembly Ave\, Oak Park\, CA 91377 \nDisclaimer / Release of Liability:\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/china-flats-intermediate/
LOCATION:China Flat Trailhead\, 34.193558\, -118.775137\, Oak Park\, ca\, 91377\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.1791715;-118.7628685
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220220T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220220T190000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220217T031635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220217T031635Z
UID:10001027-1645369200-1645383600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Angel Vista potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:3.0 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy-intermediate. \nThis hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep\, but it is continuous\, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate. \nThat said\, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed\, just stop and rest along the way\, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike\, and you really can’t get lost. \nThe only junction is 200 yards before the top\, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb. \nAt the top\, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have our typical snack-share social event at the top for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share. \nThe top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top. \nYou will see several plants of note: \nTree Tobacco \nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \nElderberry \nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \nDirections: \nFrom the 101 take the Ventu Park exit (3 miles north/west of the 23) and go South toward the ocean. At Lynn Road turn right. VERY soon you will pass an open space on your left. Watch for the entrance to Regal Oak Ct on your left\, where you will turn left. Take it all the way to the end and park. This is a neighborhood\, so please keep the noise down. \nWe will meet not quite at the end of the road. We’ll cross a gate along the side of the street and across from the houses\, then move 100 yards to the right and enter the trail. \nHike Distance: 3.0 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half\, which is a continuous climb.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 4 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/angel-vista-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:Rosewood Trailhead\, 305 Regal Oak Ct\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.1724818;-118.9146057
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rosewood Trailhead 305 Regal Oak Ct Thousand Oaks CA US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=305 Regal Oak Ct:geo:-118.9146057,34.1724818
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220222T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220222T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220211T031544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220211T031544Z
UID:10001013-1645552800-1645565400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:2-22-22 - Oakbrook Vista - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3.2 miles\, 900′ gain\, easy intermediate. \nThe first part is a steady incline\, followed by a rolling trail to our destination. Fit beginners can complete this hike\, but it will certainly get their blood pumping. There are no super steep sections. \nThis hike takes us to a secret spot below a large rock formation. Naturally into the side of the rock is a half-globe carved out of it\, giving us a quasi-cave area to sit and have our social event. \nThis is not a conditioning hike\, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up and to make sure they make any turns. We’ll stop at the turn around point for a social event lasting 30 – 60 minutes\, where we will share snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nThe Route (photo posted): \nHike\nDistance: 3.2 miles\nGain: 900′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the first half.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nTrail Variations:\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes\, about a block from the start.\nDrinking Fountains: Maybe by the restrooms.\nParking: Park in the street. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)). \nStops: The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks in the shape of an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nInteresting Notes \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nManzanita \nRounded leaves. Redish trunk and stems. Hard wood. Lots of curves. People used to spray this tree with lacquer and mount on their walls like a “tree of life” for decoration. \nSticky Monkeyflower \nOf the Snapdragon family. The flowers are supposed to resemble a laughing monkey’s face. Leaves are very sticky on the underside. \nDirections: \nOakbrook Vista Trailhead\n3222 Lang Ranch Pkwy.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91362\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.212466\, -118.820325 \nFrom CA-23:\nExit 15 Avenida de Los Arboles.\nEast on Avenida de Los Arboles until it ends\, 1.6 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Westlake Blvd 0.2 miles.\nLeft (east) on Lang Ranch Pkwy. 0.2 miles.\nPark on street\, trailhead on the right (south) side. \nRelease of Liability:\nYou assume all risks of this hike. See the Meetup terms of service https://www.meetup.com/terms/)
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/2-22-22-oakbrook-vista-easy-intermediate/
LOCATION:Oakbrook Vista Trailhead\, 3222 Lang Ranch Parkway\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/03113707/100888_image_676x380.webp
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220224T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220224T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220211T031544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220211T031544Z
UID:10001014-1645725600-1645738200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Los Padres - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3.5 miles\, 600′ gain\, Easy Intermediate. \nA fit beginner can handle this. Because there are a couple extended inclines\, I’ve rated this at the easy end of the intermediate spectrum. That’s OK\, because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. We’ll stop at various points to let people catch up. \nWe’ll start by entering the Los Padres trail\, through a spooky oak covered section\, then move through until we come to a dead end. We’ll turn right\, and continue climbing up. We’ll come to another junction\, where we’ll turn right onto the Los Robles trail. \nAfter 500 feet\, we’ll come to a split off to the right. We’ll take this split and continue along the Vista Loop until we come to a bench. Then we’ll start heading down\, and when we come to the “Giants Picnic Table”\, which I call that because its parts are super thick. \nWe’ll stop for a social event and share snacks and drinks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 30-60 minutes\, before continuing down and around for our return. \nIf you don’t wish to stay for the entire social event\, please study the map posted as a photo with this description so you are able to navigate the remainder of this trail without the host \nHike Distance: 3.5 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Loop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nTrail Variations:\nSeveral extended inclines of 1000 steps.\nSeveral steep sections of 300 steps\, but no hands required.\nDuration: 3.0 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)). \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nInteresting Notes \nThese are a couple plants you are likely to see on this hike: \nYucca \nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo or soap. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. \nPronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. Adam says they taste like radishes. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, or\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or\, scrape off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage. \nWild Cucumber \nToxic. Boil fruit in water to make spikes easy to remove. Inside is a natural luffa. Tubars (thickened part of a stem\, usually underground\, like the potato) can be crushed and thrown into water to immobilize fish. \nAlmost the entire plant is poisonous. Although wild cucumbers are related to the familiar\, domestic vegetable\, the prickly “cucumbers” consist not of fleshy fruit\, but of two seed chambers containing lacy netting. \nDirections \nLos Padres Trailhead\n15 Los Padres Drive\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361 \nFrom I-101:\nWest of CA-23\, I-101\, exit S. Moorpark Rd.\nSouth on Moorpark Rd. north for 1000 ft.\nLeft on Los Padres Dr.\nAfter 200 ft\, trailhead on the right.\nPark on the street. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/los-padres-easy-intermediate-2/
LOCATION:Los Padres Trailhead\, 15 Los Padres Drive\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220301T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220301T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220214T031542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220214T031542Z
UID:10000569-1646157600-1646170200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wildlife Tunnel Loop - Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:Intermediate – 3 miles\, 1000′ gain. \nThis hike is relatively short\, but the middle portion is a rugged and continuous incline for 1 mile with about 700′ of gain. Even though we’ll be taking this trail at the pace of a social hike\, beginners may will find this hike to be too hard. \nWe’ll start this hike by parking on the south side of the CA-118 at the Rocky Peak exit. We’ll walk west along the Santa Susana Pass Rd. for about 500 feet\, and directly across from Lilac Ln\, we’ll enter a trail. We’ll move along a relatively flat section from 1/2 mile\, then turn right and make a gradual climb until we reach the wildlife tunnel. \nThis is a tunnel underneath the CA-118 freeway\, built so that animals can cross. We’ll regroup here\, then continue up a strenuous and rugged climb for 1 mile until we reach the Rocky Peak Fire Rd. We’ll regroup again\, then turn left for 500′ until we reach the Hummingbird Trail. \nWe’ll find a couple large rocks and a bench there. We’ll have a social event lasting 30 – 60 minutes\, then head down the Rocky Peak Fire Road until it ends at the CA-118 freeway. We’ll then cross the freeway back to our cars. \nInteresting Notes: \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nCalifornia Sagebrush \nAromatic 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. \nPurple Sage \nGrey-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 take on a greyer color. \nDirections:\nRocky Peak Exit\, South Side of CA-118\nSimi Valley\, CA 93065\n34.268396\, -118.636139 \nFrom the 118\nExit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.\nPark on south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd. \nFrom the 101 @ CA-23\nNorth CA-23 for 8.4 miles.\nEast I-118 for 14 miles.\nExit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.\nPark on south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd. \nThe Hike:\nDistance: 3 miles\, 3.5 hours\nElevation Gain: 1000′\nDifficulty: Intermediate.\nSee “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781).\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes if leashed\, per State law\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No\nParking: Free\, south side of CA-118\nTrail: Single Track\, Double Track\, and rugged water path.\nPurpose: Social \nWhat to Bring:\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDisclaimer / Release of Liability:\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/wildlife-tunnel-loop-intermediate-3/
LOCATION:Rocky Peak Trail\, 7900 Santa Susana Pass Rd\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 91311\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/03113625/100979_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2673743;-118.6349195
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220303T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220303T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220214T031543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220214T031543Z
UID:10000571-1646330400-1646343000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Long Canyon - Easy cc lollipop - the back way
DESCRIPTION:5 miles\, 800′ gain\, Easy Intermediate.\nThe address is not the address of the hike\, but a nearby address that should get you to pass by the trailhead. \nThis route would be classified as fit-beginner\, if not for an extended incline that runs for almost a mile in the middle of the hike. It is a fire road with a continuous climb. Fit beginners should be OK on this hike\, although they may wish to take several breaks during the middle ascent. \nWe’ll be stopping at various points to regroup and this is not a conditioning hike. It is a social hike. \nWe will start by heading the back way from the Long Canyon trailhead parking lot and around to an asphalt road. Then we’ll make our way down to the Autumn Ridge trail\, where we’ll head for almost a mile up to the five-points junction. We’ll make a sharp left\, then another left after about 500′ at the bench\, heading down the Sunrise trail. \nAfter about 1000′\, we’ll head into the rocks into or next to the Rockcuzzi\, a natural circular indentation in the rocks\, hidden from view unless you know were it is\, for a snack share social event for 30-60 minutes. \nFinally\, we’ll continue down the Sunrise trail\, take the Woodridge Loop trail back to the asphalt road\, then head back the way we came along the Woodridge Connector back to the trail head parking lot. \nA picture of the route is posted as part of the description. \nInteresting Notes: \nTurkey Mullein \nSmashed leaves can be thrown into the water to stupefy fish\, causing them to float to the surface\, a practice illegal in most states. The seeds are not toxic to birds and are enjoyed especially by doves and wild turkeys. \nAncient Greeks rolled and dried the leaves\, then used them as wicks for oil lamps. It stalks were used as torches burned at funerals. Many tribes employed the use of mullein leaf tea for coughs\, colds\, and rheumatism. They considered it to be analgesic\, anti-inflammatory\, antispasmodic\, and expectorant. The astringent and demulcent properties of the leaf tea were found useful in cases of diarrhea. \nWild Oats \nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \nHike \nDistance: 5 miles\nGain: 800\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the middle of this hike. It is a fire road incline of about 1 mile.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Lollipop\, counter-clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, single and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes. Leash as required by law.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the paved parking area in front of the trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)). \nThis description has a picture of the route. Those that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share\, should memorize the route so they can safely return on their own. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the 2/3 point along the hike. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections: \nWhere of Long Canyon Rd. and S. Wood Ranch Pkwy. intersect in Simi Valley. There is a free paved parking lot at the trailhead on the southwest corner. \nFrom CA-23 and I-101:\nNorth CA-23\, exit Olsen Rd.\nRight (east) on Olsen Rd.\, which becomes Madera Rd.\, for 2 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, for 2 miles.\nRight at dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nFrom CA-118 and CA-27:\nWest CA-118\, exit 23 onto 1st St.\nLeft (south) on 1st St.\, which becomes Long Canyon Rd.\, for 5 miles.\nCross at dead end (intersection with S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.228330\, -118.803130\nAddress of a nearby house: 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065. \nArrive early\, because sometimes the parking lot gets full. If this happens\, we’ll need another 15 minutes to carpool from a nearby parking lot. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/long-canyon-easy-cc-lollipop-the-back-way-3/
LOCATION:572 Bannister Way\, 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.2292163;-118.8045423
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220308T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220308T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220307T042344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220307T042344Z
UID:10001047-1646762400-1646775000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Potrero – All paved – Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:5.75 miles\, 700′ gain. Easy Intermediate.\nDo not park on Potrero else risk getting a ticket. You need a permit to park on this street. \nThis hike is a great trail when it might be muddy because almost the entire hike is on an asphalt path through a huge state park (> 20 sq miles). \nThere is an extended incline on the return. \nSince the elevation gain is low and the route is paved\, we’ll be likely hiking a little faster than typical. It’s a little more than 8 miles to go all the way to the ocean. \nAt the 2.9 mile mark\, we’ll find a picnic table 350′ off to the side\, where we’ll stop and have a social event for about an hours before heading back the way we came. There are no turns on this hike\, so as long as you stay on the asphalt path\, you really can’t get lost. \nDirections:\n4161 Potrero Rd.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320\n34.156636\, -118.962989 \nNote that when turning left at the dead end to continue on Potrero Rd.\, the sign at the intersection will say S. Reina\, but it is actually only that street if you go right\, and to the left\, it is a continuation of Potrero Rd. \nFrom the west: 101-S\, Exit 48B Wendy Dr.\, turn right.\nFrom the east: 101-N\, Exit 47C Wendy Dr.\, turn left.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. until it deadends at Potrero Rd.\nRight on Potrero Rd. for 0.5 miles.\nLeft to stay on Potrero Rd. (it is Reino if you turn right) for 0.5 miles.\nTurn right on Pinehill Ave. and park. \nWalk 800 feet back to the intersection of Potrero Rd. and Big Sycamore Canyon Rd.\nDo not park on Potrero Rd. \nThe Hike:\nDistance: 5.9 miles.\nGain: 700′\, mostly on the return.\nDistribution: The return section has an extended incline.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Asphalt path.\nTrail Variations: Rolling stroll with an extended incline.\nDuration: 3.5 hours.\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes\, along the way at the start.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\, along the way at the start.\nParking: Free along Pinehill Ave. No parking on Potrero\, it is for residents with a permit only. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nHosting\nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. Navigation: GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK). \nThis hike is out-and-back on an asphalt path\, While it will be acceptable to split from the group moving faster\, slower\, or otherwise at your own pace\, keep in mind if you get ahead\, you must know where we are stopping. \n[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions/)\n[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/)
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/potrero-all-paved-easy-intermediate/
LOCATION:4161 Potrero Rd\, 4161 Potrero Rd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113437/101140_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.1566335;-118.9630194
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220310T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220310T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220307T042344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220307T042344Z
UID:10000588-1646935200-1646947800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Dos Vientos - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:5.2 miles\, 1140′ gain\, easy-intermediate. \nWarning: Google Maps may take you to the incorrect location\, although the address is correct. Please follow the written directions. \nThe hike starts on the Park View trail\, completely flat along a gravel track that moves around the Dos Vientos Community park. It then gently rises into the surrounding hills\, continuing onto the Powerline trail. \nThe first 1.75 miles has about 350′ of gain and another 150′ of gain on the return\, including an extended incline of about 450 steps. The extended incline is fire road\, so it isn’t especially steep. \nParts are ruggedly strewn with small rubble but there are still clear foot paths along the edge. It will get the heart pumping and beginners will probably curse this extended climb. At the height of this point\, there is a fantastic overlook. \nWe continue another 0.85 miles for another 450′ of gain and 190′ on the return. It continues to the next electrical tower where the trail splits. This leads to the 2\,200 feet high Conejo Mountain in Camarillo\, CA. \nAt the end of this segment\, we’ll stop to share snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) before returning back the way we came. \nThis trail offers panoramic views of the Oxnard Plain\, the Pacific Ocean\, numerous Channel Islands\, Boney Mountain\, Mugu Lagoon\, and the Topa Topa Mountains. \nInteresting Notes. \nYou will see several plants of note: \nPrickly Pear Cactus \nInside and fruit are edible. Remove needles and scrape to remove hairs\, cut top off\, hollow out to make water container. Burn off needles. Fruit peels easily. Eat seeds and all. Use duct tape to remove thorns from hands. \nLichen \nA composite organism arising from algae\, cyanobacteria\, or both\, and often fungi. They come in many colors. Not related to moss or any plant. They get all their food from photosynthesis\, air\, water\, and minerals in their environment. Most comes from air\, and therefore\, can be used to monitor air pollution. 6% of earth’s land surface is covered by lichens. This is the paint that gives the look of the rocks of Yosemite. 20\,000 known species. Self-contained ecosystems. Some of the oldest living things. Can survive unprotected in space\, surviving vacuum\, fluctuating temperatures\, and cosmic radiation. Used for making dyes\, sometimes by boiling in water. Some are edible\, some poisonous. \nDirections: \nDos Vientos Community Park\n4801 Borchard Rd\nNewbury Park\, CA 91320\n34.175205\,-118.981760 \nFrom the 118: \nWest to CA-23.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 north for 4.1 miles.\nExit 47B Borchard Rd.\nBorchard Rd. south for 7 miles.\nDos Vientos park entrance on the right. \nFrom CA-23: \nCA-23 south to US-101.\nUS-101 north for 4.1 miles.\nExit 47B Borchard Rd.\nBorchard Rd. south for 7 miles.\nDos Vientos park entrance on the right. \nFrom US-101 (Camarillo/Ventura): \nUS-101 south.\nExit 47A Borchard Rd.\nBorchard Rd. south for 7 miles.\nDos Vientos park entrance on the right. \nHike Stats: \nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)\nDistance: 5.2 miles\nElevation Gain: 1140′\nDistribution: All of the gain is on the way up.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: 2.0 mph\nTrail Variations: After 1.5 miles\, there will be several sections of 1000 steps or more that are continuous elevation gain.\nDuration: 3.5 hours.\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes.\nParking: Free in paved lot.\nTrail type: Single track and fire road. Parts of the fire road have heavy gravel and rubble.\nKnown Dangers: Rattlesnakes. \nBelow is the route we will follow. Please take note if you plan on separating from the group\, perhaps for returning right away instead of participating in the snack and beverage share. \nWhat to Bring: \n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social. \nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781). \nStops: \nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: \nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions/)\n[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/)
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/dos-vientos-easy-intermediate-2/
LOCATION:Dos Vientos Community Park\, 4801 Borchard Road\, Newbury Park\, CA\, 91320\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113434/101142_image_676x380.webp
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220313T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220313T180000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220310T031639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220310T031639Z
UID:10001050-1647180000-1647194400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Hawk Canyon lollipop - Pot Luck hike
DESCRIPTION:4.2 miles\, 700′ gain\, easy-intermediate. This hike has a fit-beginner option: 2.7 miles\, 500′ gain\, described at the end of this description. \nThis is a pot-luck hike. We’ll be stopping at the 3/4 point by a picnic table\, so please bring food and drink to share\, and any utensils your items might require. \nWe have had occasions where there were no utensils\, so it might be wise to at least bring your own. \nWe start at the Conejo Canyons Trailhead at Conejo Center Dr in Newbury Park (1993 Rancho Conejo Blvd.). \nWe’ll hike downhill from the trailhead for 0.6 miles. We’ll continue uphill for 0.6 miles on the Western Plateau trail. We’ll regather at the top of the Peninsula Trail. \nThe trail will be rolling for the next 1 mile\, then drops 360 ft over the next 1/2 mile. At the bottom of the Western Plateau trail\, we’ll take a sharp right up Hawk Canyon. Our picnic spot is 1/4 mile up Hawk Canyon at the table under the trees. \nAfter the potluck\, we’ll continue up Hawk Canyon in our clockwise loop for 0.6 mile where the trail ends back at the Western Plateau trail. Take a left up the hill back to Conejo Center Dr. \n** If you plan on leaving before the group\, please familiarize yourself with the planned route\, which is posted with this description. \nThe Hike: \nDistance: 4.2 miles\nGain: 700′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Beginner.\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road and single track.\nTrail Variations: Rolling stroll and ramp.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: \n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section. LINK: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781 \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. This hike does not have any junctions once past the first 500′. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections: \nConejo Cayons\n1993 Rancho Conejo Blvd.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320\nPark at: 34.205239\, -118.933403 \nUS-101\, exit Ventu Park Rd\, North.\nVentu Park Rd. North for 1 mile.\nRight on Rancho Conejo Blvd.\, 1.3 miles.\nLeft on Conejo Center Dr.\nPark on the street. \nFit-beginner option: 2.7 miles\, 500′ gain:\nInstead of turning left at the first junction\, turn right. Picnic table will be on the left. This replaces a 2.2 mile section with a 0.7 mile section.\nSee https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/events/279301083/.\nA link to a pic of the fit-beginner option route link is posted in the comments. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/hawk-canyon-lollipop-pot-luck-hike-3/
LOCATION:1993 Rancho Conejo Blvd\, 1993 Rancho Conejo Blvd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220315T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220315T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220307T042345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220307T042345Z
UID:10000590-1647367200-1647379800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Whitehorse Lollipop - Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:Intermediate\, 5.25 mi\, 1000′ gain \nFit beginners can complete this hike\, but it will certainly get their blood pumping. This is not a conditioning hike\, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up and to make sure they make any turns. \nWe’ll start by climbing the Triunfo Canyon trail for 1.25 miles\, where we’ll hit a plateau. We’ll stop there and regroup\, taking in the views. Then we’ll continue onto the Los Robles trail for another 1.25 miles\, at which point we’ll come to a junction heading down. \nWe’ll head down and then up\, the Whitehorse Canyon trail for 1 mile\, then make a left onto the Conejo Crest Trail. We’ll follow that trail for 3/4 mile to a set of stairs and a bench. There\, we’ll have a snack and beverage share ( https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772 ) social event for 30 – 60 minutes before heading down the last mile back to our cars. \nReturning\, we’ll go down the Brookview trail for 0.2 miles\, making a left when we can\, going about 100 feet before turning right at a dead end\, and taking the Triunfo Canyon trail back down the way we came. \nThe Hike: \nDistance: 5.25 miles\nElevation Gain: 1000′\nDifficulty: Intermediate ( https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781 )\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\nParking: Free at the trail head.\nTrail: Varied. Good condition. \nWhat to Bring:\nSnacks and/or beverages to share ( https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772 ).\n2 liters of water.\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDirections: \nTriunfo Community Park\n1869 Tamarack St.\nWestlake Village\, CA91361 \nFrom Simi Valley:\nCA-118 west to CA-23 south\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles\nUS-101 east/south for 1.5 miles\, exit Hampshire Rd.\nRight on Hampshire Rd. south for 1/2 mile\nRight on Triunfo Canyon Rd. for 1/2 mile\nRight on Tamarack St. for 1000′ to dead end.\nLeft into parking lot. \nFrom the East:\nUS-101 west/north\, exit Westlake Blvd.\nLeft on S. Westlake Blvd. for 1 mile\nRight on Triunfo Canyon Rd. for 1/2 mile\nLeft on Tamarack St. for 1000′ to dead end.\nLeft into parking lot. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/whitehorse-lollipop-intermediate-4/
LOCATION:Triunfo Community Park\, 1869 Tamarack St.\, Westlake Village\, ca\, 91361\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.1567967;-118.8453657
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Triunfo Community Park 1869 Tamarack St. Westlake Village ca 91361 US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1869 Tamarack St.:geo:-118.8453657,34.1567967
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220317T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220317T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220307T042345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220307T042345Z
UID:10000592-1647540000-1647552600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Happy Camp - Suitable for beginners
DESCRIPTION:Beginner. 5 miles\, 500′ gain. \nThis hike is entirely fire-road and is almost completely flat. That means it’s wide enough for a vehicle. To make up for the lack of elevation\, the distance will be about 5 miles round trip. \nWhen I hiked this\, I never noticed any real gain but ended up measuring about 500′ from the combination of small hills. Some of this trail is sandy\, so walking it at times can be more difficult than just walking a dirt trail\, almost like walking on the beach. \nWhat this hike lacks in ridge-top views\, it makes up for in its varied surrounding flora: There are a lot of different interesting plants on this hike. \nThe walk starts out in the gravel parking lot next to the Rustic Canyon golf course parking lot\, where there is a trail head along the north edge and plenty of room for at least 35 cars. We’ll walk along the fire road next to the golf course for 1.3 miles until making a left at a junction. \nPlease be advised that from that point on\, there are no dogs allowed. At some point as we continue\, the ground will become very sandy that I’m told is the result of horses. \nThe landscape will change from very dry to very green\, eventually coming to a spot where sometimes you can hear the water running along the left down in a canyon. We’ll stop there to share some snacks\, beverages\, and have a social event for 30-60 minutes\, before turning around to head back the way we came. \nInteresting Notes: \nYou will see several plants of note\, and if you are interested\, you can look them up before the hike. I’ll mention several\, and then fully describe a couple more: \nRussian Thistle\, Black Walnut\, Caterpillar Phacelia\, White Sage\, Yucca\, Bladder Pod. \nJimson Weed \nThe plant got its name from Jamestown\, because in 1676\, Jamestown\, VA soldiers ate this plant in their salad and became psychotic for 11 days. \nThe leaves and seeds are used to make medicine. Despite serious safety concerns\, jimson weed is used to treat asthma\, cough\, flu (influenza)\, swine flu\, and nerve diseases. Some people use it as a recreational drug to cause hallucinations and a heightened sense of well-being (euphoria). All parts of Datura plants contain dangerous levels of the tropane alkaloids atropine\, hyoscyamine\, and scopolamine\, which are classified as deliriants\, or anticholinergics. \nThe risk of fatal overdose is high among uninformed users\, and many hospitalizations occur amongst recreational users who ingest the plant for its psychoactive effects. As much as a 5:1 variation can be found between plants. It contains chemicals such as atropine\, hyoscyamine\, and scopolamine. \nThese chemicals interfere with one of the chemical messengers (acetylcholine) in the brain and nerves. Ingesting only a few small seeds can result in serious poisoning and may be life-threatening. Ingesting even small amounts of the plant or seeds can result in confusion\, frightening hallucinations\, the inability to urinate or sweat\, overheating\, and a rapid heart rate. \nDepending on the amount ingested\, these troubling symptoms can last hours to many days\, and in some cases can lead to death. Touching he plant can cause dermatitis. \nCastor Bean \nThe seeds contain ricin and are poisonous to people\, animals and insects. Ricin is one of the most poisonous naturally occurring substances known. Perhaps just one milligram of ricin can kill an adult. Walter White made a poison cigarette by putting in ricin\, in the series Breaking Bad. \nThe symptoms of human poisoning begin within a few hours of ingestion. If death has not occurred in 3-5 days\, the victim usually recovers. The seed cause skin irritation at the contact point. It is said that just one seed can kill a child. \nIn 1978\, ricin was used to assassinate Georgi Markov in 1978\, a Bulgarian journalist who spoke out against the Bulgarian government. He was stabbed with the point of an umbrella while waiting at a bus stop near Waterloo Station in London. They found a perforated metallic pellet embedded in his leg that had presumably contained the ricin toxin. \nCastor beans are pressed to extract castor oil which is used for medicinal purposes. Ricin does not partition into the oil because it is water-soluble\, therefore\, castor oil does not contain ricin\, provided that no cross-contamination occurred during its production. \nUsed in bone marrow transplants\, cancer therapies\, AIDS treatment\, and can selectively destroy neurons by injecting ricin into nerves. \nDirections: \nHappy Camp\n15100 Happy Camp Canyon Rd.\nMoorpark\, CA 93021\n34.311460\,-118.866110\nIf you use this address\, we’ll be just beyond the far southeast corner of the clubhouse lot. \nFrom the 118 and from the 101:\nHead to towards the intersection of I-118 and CA-23.\nExit 19A Princeton Ave.\, turn right (north) if coming from the east\, left coming from CA-23.\nPrinceton Ave. north for 0.2 miles.\nLeft on Campus Park Dr. for 0.4 miles and continue on Happy Camp Canyon Rd. for 0.7 miles.\nFollow signs to Rustic Canyon golf course.\nPark on the right in gravel lot\, just before golf course paved lot. \nThe Hike:\nDistance: 5 miles\, 3 hours\nElevation Gain: 500′\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: No. This is a park rule\, not mine. There is a sign half-way that says no dogs. I’m not the dog enforcer\, so bring a dog at your own risk.\nRestrooms: Yes\, inside the golf course clubhouse at the start\, but likely closed after dark.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\, inside the golf course clubhouse at the start.\nParking: Free in the gravel lot next to the paved golf course lot.\nTrail: Fire Road and Fire Road with powdered sand. \nWhat to Bring:\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK. They will get very dusty on this trail.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/happy-camp-suitable-for-beginners-2/
LOCATION:Happy Camp\, 15100 Happy Camp Canyon Road\, Moorpark\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.3117874;-118.8674486
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Happy Camp 15100 Happy Camp Canyon Road Moorpark CA US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=15100 Happy Camp Canyon Road:geo:-118.8674486,34.3117874
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220320T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220320T190000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220317T031607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220317T031607Z
UID:10001059-1647788400-1647802800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wildwood Park - Las Flores potluck hike - Fit Beginner
DESCRIPTION:**Fit Beginner – 4 miles\, 600′ gain** \nWe start at the Las Flores trailhead where Las Flores dead-ends at Wildwood Park\, and head west. After 1/3 mile\, the trail becomes Wildwood Canyon Trail. We continue for another 2/3 mile and cross a bridge just past the Meadows Picnic area. \nWe’ll make a left\, continuing on Wildwood Canyon Trail\, past the Tee Pee Trail\, behind Paradise Falls\, left at the split\, and after about a mile\, Wildwood Canyon Picnic area will be on the left. There will be several tables. \nThis is a pot luck picnic. Please bring something to eat and drink\, and a little extra to share. If your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. We’ll share snacks and drinks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 60 – 90 minutes\, before heading back the way we came. \n**The Hike**\nDistance: 4 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Fit Beginner\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nDuration: 4.0 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: Yes.\nParking: Free along street. \n**What to bring:** 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share. \n**Hosting** \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks in the shape of an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Directions** \nLas Flores Trailhead\n604 W Avenida De Las Flores\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360 \n**Release of Liability:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/wildwood-park-las-flores-potluck-hike-fit-beginner/
LOCATION:604 W Avenida De Las Flores\, 604 W Avenida De Las Flores\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113337/102983_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2120362;-118.8915025
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=604 W Avenida De Las Flores 604 W Avenida De Las Flores Thousand Oaks CA 91360 US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=604 W Avenida De Las Flores:geo:-118.8915025,34.2120362
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220322T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220322T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220308T031724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220308T031724Z
UID:10000602-1647972000-1647984600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Paradise Falls - The easy way
DESCRIPTION:**3.5 miles\, 650′ gain\, Fit Beginner** \nA hike to Paradise Falls is one of the most popular things to do for those visiting Simi Valley\, yet a lot of people that live nearby rarely make this fun hike or perhaps have never done it. \nThere are several paths one can take to the falls. This route is the easy way to Paradise Falls and suitable for fit beginners. \nThere are a couple inclines of several hundred steps\, but nothing a fit beginner cannot handle. There is one stair case of several stories that takes us down to the falls. \nThere is nothing wrong with taking it slow because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. We’ll be waiting for folks to catch up at the major junctions. \nThe waterfall is flowing fully even during our drought conditions. It is fed by urban run-off (surface water waste created by urbanization). It feeds into a small pond\, where I see people swimming and diving all the time\, even though this water is not safe or legal for either due to health risks and debris hidden below the surface. \n**The Route.** \n*To the Main Parking Lot*\nWe’ll be starting from the tennis court parking lot 4 blocks east of the trail head parking lot and across the road. We’ll take a tunnel that goes under the road and make our way to the park side of the road. We’ll turn right (west) for 1 block\, where we’ll see an entrance to the Moonridge trail that runs parallel to the road. \nWe’ll enter and make a right\, following it around past the first set of junctions\, continuing for about 1/4 mile\, and then follow it around to the left instead of taking the stem to the right. \nThis will take us to the steps to the main trail head parking lot on the right side. We’ll turn right\, going up the stairs\, and head across the lot to the entrance of the Mesa trail. \n*To the Tepee*\nWe’ll take that trail\, past the gate\, and after 2000′\, turn left on the North Tepee Trail. We’ll follow this down for 2000′ more to a large Tepee structure. We’ll regroup\, we can take a few pictures\, there’s a drinking fountain\, and we can rest a moment. \n*To the Waterfall*\nWe’ll then continue down to the Paradise Falls waterfall by following the zig-zag trail and taking a stair case down. \n*The Snack Share*\nAfter a short visit\, we’ll return a different way\, heading partly back up and across the back side of the waterfall along Wildwood Canyon trail. After about another 100 yards\, we’ll come to a couple picnic tables on the right where we’ll share snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \n*Returning Early*\nFor those that wish to head back instead of hanging around for the snack share\, you are responsible for finding your own way back\, although there is almost always someone leaving early that knows the route\, or you can study the map in this description. \n*Continuing with the group*\nFor this hike\, we’ll take the easiest way back. We continue on this trail and it comes to a dead end\, we make a right and then immediate left onto the Indian Creek trail. We’ll follow this all the way back to our cars\, making a right towards the end when it dead ends again. \n**You will see several entities of note:** \n*Prickly Pear Cactus* \nInside and fruit are edible. Remove needles and scrape to remove hairs\, cut top off\, hollow out to make water container. Burn or scrape off needles – even stones can be used if you don’t have a knife. Fruit peels easily. Eat seeds and all. Use duct tape to remove thorns from hands. \n*Lemonade Berry* \nSome saps can produce skin allergic reactions. Good kindling. Usually\, the berries are toxic. They are covered with a gooey sour (like lemon) coating. Hikers sometimes drop a seed or two into their water bottles to give the water a tang. Wide leaves\, rounded tips\, edges are smooth\, dull on back. Can only be found in the California hills. \n**Directions:**\nWildwood Park\n635 W Avenida De Los Arboles\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91360 \nThis is not the main trailhead lot. Go to the tennis and basketball parking lot (Wildflower Playfield). \nPay attention to where it is legal to park\, and if the lot is full\, there is another lot 500′ east\, or park in the neighborhood across the street. \n**From the 118:**\nCA-118 west to CA-23.\nContinue south on CA-23 to exit 15 for 4.8 miles\, Avenida de los Arboles\nTurn right (east) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot. \n**From CA-23:**\nCA-23 to exit 15\, Avenida de los Arboles\nEast on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until it ends.\nTrail head on the left.\nTurn right (east) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot. \n**The Hike:**\nDistance: 3.5miles\, 3 1/2 hrs\nElevation Gain: 650′\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Fit Beginner\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – at the start.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes.\nParking: Free.\nTrail: Double and single track\, fire road. \n**What to Bring:**\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)to share.\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp for evening hikes.\nInsect Repellent \n**Release of Liability:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/paradise-falls-the-easy-way/
LOCATION:Tennis Court parking lot\, 635 W Avenida de Los Arboles\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113421/101163_image_676x380.webp
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220324T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220324T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220308T031725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220308T031725Z
UID:10000604-1648144800-1648157400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Rocky Peak - Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:**5 miles\, 1200′ gain\, Intermediate** \nThis 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. \nThe 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. \nFit 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. \nI 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. \nWe’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. \nThen 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\, enjoy the views\, engage in a social interaction\, and rest before returning. The climb to the top usually takes about an hour. \nIt can get windy at the top and cool in the evening\, so I would recommend bringing something light to put on. \n**Interesting Notes:** \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \n*California Sagebrush* \nAromatic 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. \n*Purple Sage* \nGrey-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. \n**Directions:**\nRocky Peak Trail\nSimi Valley\, CA 93065\n34.268396\, -118.636139 \n*From the 118*\nExit Rocky Peak Rd.\nTrailhead on the north side.\nPark either at the trailhead (limited parking)\, or south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd. \n*From the 101 @ CA-23*\nNorth CA-23 for 8.4 miles.\nEast I-118 for 14 miles.\nExit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.\nTrailhead on the north side (left).\nPark either at the trailhead (limited parking)\, or south (right) of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd. \n**The Hike:**\nDistance: 5 miles\, 3.5 hours https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781\nElevation Gain: 1200′\nDifficulty: Intermediate\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No\nParking: Free at the trailhead (limited parking\, not recommended as you can get a ticket after sunset for parking there) or across the freeway 500′.\nTrail: Fire road.\nPurpose: Social \n**What to Bring:**\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \n**Disclaimer / Release of Liability:**\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/rocky-peak-intermediate-2/
LOCATION:Rocky Peak Trail\, 7900 Santa Susana Pass Rd\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 91311\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113419/101165_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2673743;-118.6349195
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rocky Peak Trail 7900 Santa Susana Pass Rd Simi Valley CA 91311 US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=7900 Santa Susana Pass Rd:geo:-118.6349195,34.2673743
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220326T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220326T190000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220323T031629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220323T031629Z
UID:10001073-1648306800-1648321200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Angel Vista potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:**3.0 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy-intermediate** \nThis hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep\, but it is continuous\, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate. \nThat said\, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed\, just stop and rest along the way\, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike\, and you really can’t get lost. \nThe only junction is 200 yards before the top\, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb. \nAt the top\, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have our typical **snack-share social event at the top** for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share. \nThe top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top. \nYou will see several plants of note: \n**Tree Tobacco** \nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \n**Elderberry** \nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \n**Directions:** \nFrom the 101 take the Ventu Park exit (3 miles north/west of the 23) and go South toward the ocean. At Lynn Road turn right. VERY soon you will pass an open space on your left. Watch for the entrance to Regal Oak Ct on your left\, where you will turn left. Take it all the way to the end and park. This is a neighborhood\, so please keep the noise down. \nWe will meet not quite at the end of the road. We’ll cross a gate along the side of the street and across from the houses\, then move 100 yards to the right and enter the trail. \nHike Distance: 3.0 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half\, which is a continuous climb.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 4 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \n**FAQ:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions \n**Disclaimer / Release of Liability:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/angel-vista-potluck-hike-2/
LOCATION:Rosewood Trailhead\, 305 Regal Oak Ct\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/03113605/101021_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.1724818;-118.9146057
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rosewood Trailhead 305 Regal Oak Ct Thousand Oaks CA US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=305 Regal Oak Ct:geo:-118.9146057,34.1724818
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220329T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220329T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220315T032154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220315T032154Z
UID:10001056-1648576800-1648589400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Long Canyon - Upside down lollipop
DESCRIPTION:**Easy Intermediate\, 4 miles\, 900′ gain.**\nThe address given\, is not the address of the hike. It is a nearby address that may cause your GPS to drive past the trailhead. \nEasy Intermediate means it is on the easy end of the intermediate spectrum: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781 \nThis is an upside down lollipop that takes us first to the highest point in the area where the views are fantastic. The return is down around the back side of the hill at the parking lot. \nThere is an initial climb for about 2/3 miles and 425′ of gain that can be strenuous for many if done non-stop\, and there is one other strenuous climb of just under 1/2 mile and 225′ of gain up a fire road. All the rest of the portions of this hike are down or have mild climbs. \nFit beginners can do this hike\, but they may be cursing some of the extended and steeper climbs. That’s OK\, because we’ll be stopping at various points to regroup and this is not a conditioning hike. It is a social hike. \nStarting from the Long Canyon trailhead parking lot\, we head up Long Canyon Trail to a bench. We’ll regroup and let others catch up\,then continue on past the five-points intersection and up to the next bench. We’ll take in the views and have a social event for 30-60 minutes. \nWe’ll head back to the first bench\, but instead of climbing down the trail that took us up\, we’ll continue up the Sunrise trail and follow it all the way to the Woodridge Loop trail at the top of an asphalt path. We’ll take a “sometimes not easy to see” entrance on the right\, getting on the Woodridge Connector and take it back to the parking lot. \nA picture of the route is posted at the end of the description. \n**Interesting Notes:** \n*Turkey Mullein* \nSmashed leaves can be thrown into the water to stupify fish\, causing them to float to the surface\, a practice illegal in most states. The seeds are not toxic to birds and are enjoyed especially by doves and wild turkeys. \nAncient Greeks rolled and dried the leaves\, then used them as wicks for oil lamps. It stalks were used as torches burned at funerals. Many tribes employed the use of mullein leaf tea for coughs\, colds\, and rheumatism. They considered it to be analgesic\, anti-inflammatory\, antispasmodic\, and expectorant. The astringent and demulcent properties of the leaf tea were found useful in cases of diarrhea. \n*Wild Oats* \nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \n**Hike** \nDistance: 4 miles\nGain: 900\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the first 15 minutes of the hike. The second strenuous climb is up a fire road\, after 1000 more steps\, going up another 0.4 miles.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Upside down lollipop\, clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, single and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations: The beginning is a tough climb.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the paved parking area in front of the trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \n**Hosting** \nRoute: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nThere is a picture of the route posted with this event. Those that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share\, should memorize the route so they can safely return on their own. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Directions:** \nWhere Long Canyon Rd. and S. Wood Ranch Pkwy. intersect in Simi Valley. There is a free paved parking lot at the trailhead on the southwest corner. \nFrom CA-23 and I-101:\nNorth CA-23\, exit Olsen Rd.\nRight (east) on Olsen Rd.\, which becomes Madera Rd.\, for 2 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, for 2 miles.\nRight at dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nFrom CA-118 and CA-27:\nWest CA-118\, exit 23 onto 1st St.\nLeft (south) on 1st St.\, which becomes Long Canyon Rd.\, for 5 miles.\nCross at dead end (intersection with S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.228330\, -118.803130\nAddress of a nearby house: 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nArrive early\, because sometimes the parking lot gets full. If this happens\, we’ll need another 15 minutes to carpool from a nearby parking lot. \n**Release of Liability**\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/long-canyon-upside-down-lollipop-2/
LOCATION:572 Bannister Way\, 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113348/102950_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2292163;-118.8045423
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=572 Bannister Way 572 Bannister Way Simi Valley CA 93065 US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=572 Bannister Way:geo:-118.8045423,34.2292163
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220331T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220331T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220315T032155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220315T032155Z
UID:10001057-1648749600-1648762200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wendy Lollipop
DESCRIPTION:**4.6 miles\, 1000′ gain. Easy Intermediate.** \nDifferent mapping apps give different directions for the same address\, and many have gotten lost relying on GPS. If you don’t know this location\, please look on a map to find this location before heading out\, and don’t rely only on GPS. This is the Wendy Trailhead\, where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. \nFit beginners can still do it\, but they should be aware that there are several areas of extended incline. Nothing super steep\, just continuous and strenuous for many. \nThat’s OK\, because this is not a conditioning hike\, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up. \nWe’ll start at the Wendy trailhead. There are many routes through this park\, so it will be important to listen to the hike leader about various points to stop and let others catch up for regrouping. We’ll be taking the route posted in the photo in this description. \nSlightly more than half way\, we’ll be stopping at a bench and overlook to have our traditional social event\, sharing snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nIf you wish to return before the social event completes\, you are responsible for finding your own way out\, so study the map carefully. It’s only a mile and 100′ of gain\, if you make the correct turns. \n**The Route.** \nHike Distance: 4.6 miles\nGain: 1000′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the middle of this hike.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: There is a no dogs sign that we will pass.\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street.\nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles. Hiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp. Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nHosting Route: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social. We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781). \nStops: The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. \nThere may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. Each hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Interesting Notes**\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \n*Heartleaf Penstemon*\nLeaves are shiny and saw toothed\, shaped like hearts\, 2 to 6 centimeters long and arranged oppositely on the branches. Stems are red. Small scarlet red tubular flowers . \n*Yucca*\nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. \nRoot can be chopped up and used as soap. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or scrape skin off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage. \n**Directions:**\nWendy Trail Head\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.154507\, -118.950095 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west for 8 miles.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 North for 2 miles.\nExit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.\nLeft on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.\nTrailhead slightly to the left. \nFrom US-101 north/west of Wendy:\nUS-101 south\, exit Wendy Dr.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.\nTrailhead slightly to the left. \nRelease of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/wendy-lollipop-2/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, 4128 Potrero Rd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113345/102952_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.1545092;-118.9503197
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=4128 Potrero Rd 4128 Potrero Rd Thousand Oaks CA 91361 US;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=4128 Potrero Rd:geo:-118.9503197,34.1545092
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220403T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220403T200000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220331T031645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220331T031645Z
UID:10001085-1648998000-1649016000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Danielson Monument potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:**[6.5 miles\, 1300′ gain\, intermediate](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)** \nLet’s enjoy hiking to the Danielson Monument in the Boney Mountain Wilderness and potluck! \nThe trail is filled with the colors of spring.\nWe’ll hike up to Danielson monument and enjoy potluck and “Peace\, Love and Joy.” \nPlease bring food and drinks to share.\nWe’ll have our typical **[snack-share](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) social event at the top** for 60-90 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share. \n**You will see several plants of note:** \n***[Tree Tobacco](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/1/a/highres_502857626.jpeg)*** \nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \n***[Elderberry](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/1/b/highres_502857627.jpeg)*** \nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \nHike Distance: 6.5 miles\nGain: 1300′\nDifficulty: [Intermediate]((https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781))\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3 hours (hiking only)\nDogs: Not allowed in the state park\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \n**Meet at: Wendy Trail Head**\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nWhere S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\n[Snacks and/or beverages to share](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \n**[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions)** \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/danielson-monument-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, 4128 Potrero Rd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.1545092;-118.9503197
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220405T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220405T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220319T031548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220319T031548Z
UID:10001065-1649181600-1649194200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Long Canyon - Back to Front
DESCRIPTION:**4.5 miles\, 1000′ gain\, Easy Intermediate**\nThe address given\, is not the address of the hike. It is a nearby address that may cause your GPS to drive past the trailhead. \nThere are several extended inclines and a couple short but steep climbs. Fit beginners can do this hike\, but they may be cursing some of the extended and steeper climbs. That’s OK\, because we’ll be stopping at various points to regroup and this is not a conditioning hike. It is a social hike. \nStarting from the Long Canyon trailhead parking lot\, we’ll immediate cross the street to the north side\, move along the street for about 1/4 mile\, then head up the back side for 3/4 mile until we come to a bench. We’ll regroup there and catch our breath before heading along the ridge and back down to the road for about a mile. \nWe’ll regroup again\, then cross the road and head along it back towards the parking lot for about 1000′\, where we’ll turn left to enter into the front side. We’ll follow a fire road for 1.3 miles until just before it dead ends\, where we’ll make a left (not right!) and head 1000′ to the 5-points intersection. \nWe’ll make a hard right\, go another 1000′\, and stop at a bench to have a snack share event. After\, we continue 3/4 mile down to the parking lot. \nA picture of the route is posted at the end of the description. \n**Interesting Notes:** \n*Turkey Mullein* \nSmashed leaves can be thrown into the water to stupefy fish\, causing them to float to the surface\, a practice illegal in most states. The seeds are not toxic to birds and are enjoyed especially by doves and wild turkeys. \nAncient Greeks rolled and dried the leaves\, then used them as wicks for oil lamps. It stalks were used as torches burned at funerals. Many tribes employed the use of mullein leaf tea for coughs\, colds\, and rheumatism. They considered it to be analgesic\, anti-inflammatory\, antispasmodic\, and expectorant. The astringent and demulcent properties of the leaf tea were found useful in cases of diarrhea. \n*Wild Oats* \nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \n**Hike** \nDistance: 4.5 miles\nGain: 1000\nDistribution: A couple extended inclines and a couple shorter but steeper inclines.\nDifficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Loop\, clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, single and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations:\nThe beginning is a flat walk.\nThe middle will have 2 extended inclines of about 1000 steps and a couple shorter inclines that are steeper but only about 150 steps.\nThe end is downhill\, but somewhat steep.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the paved parking area in front of the trail head. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \n**Hosting** \nRoute: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nNote the picture of the route. Those that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share\, should memorize the below route so they can safely return on their own. \n**Stops:**\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \n**Group separation:**\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Directions:** \nWhere of Long Canyon Rd. and S. Wood Ranch Pkwy. intersect in Simi Valley. There is a free paved parking lot at the trailhead on the southwest corner. \nFrom CA-23 and I-101:\nNorth CA-23\, exit Olsen Rd.\nRight (east) on Olsen Rd.\, which becomes Madera Rd.\, for 2 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, for 2 miles.\nRight at dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nFrom CA-118 and CA-27:\nWest CA-118\, exit 23 onto 1st St.\nLeft (south) on 1st St.\, which becomes Long Canyon Rd.\, for 5 miles.\nCross at dead end (intersection with S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.228330\, -118.803130\nAddress of a nearby house: 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nArrive early\, because sometimes the parking lot gets full. If this happens\, we’ll need another 15 minutes to carpool from a nearly parking lot. \n**Disclaimer / Release of Liability:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/long-canyon-back-to-front/
LOCATION:572 Bannister Way\, 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113322/103009_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2292163;-118.8045423
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220407T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220407T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220319T031549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220319T031549Z
UID:10001066-1649354400-1649367000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Las Llajas - Suitable for beginners
DESCRIPTION:**5 miles\, 700′ gain\, Beginner** \nThis hike is a great trail for beginners because all the elevation gain is distributed. It is a walk down a rolling fire road through a really cool canyon\, and you will find no difficult or extended elevation climbs. \nThis is one of my favorite trails for people new to hiking. It is an “out-and-back” hike\, where we return the way we came\, so there is virtually no chance of getting lost. You may be amazed that such a place exists right here in Simi Valley. \nFrom the trail head\, we’ll walk down an asphalt path for several hundred steps and turn right onto a gravel fire road. After that\, there will be no more turns. We may take a detour up a trail off to the right to see the first bee sanctuary\, then return back to the fire road. \nWe’ll continue on the fire-road for about 1 mile. We’ll stop there (in the shade if summer) to allow others to catch up. \nThen we’ll take a 200′ detour to the left to see another bee sanctuary\, which continues in a half circle back to the fire road. Even though I haven’t seen any actual bees there in a while\, it’s still interesting to see. \nWe’ll continue for another 1.5 miles and wait there for anybody that needs to catch up\, and share snacks and/or beverages. \nThere is a lot of wild life along this trail because it is the only area with water for quite a distance. \nThis is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. Still\, for those that aren’t interested in the beverage and/or snack share and want more of a workout\, just continue on for another mile (15-20 minutes) at a fast pace\, then turn around and come back. That’s about how long we’ll be before packing up and heading back the way we came. \n**Interesting Notes:** \n*Tree Tobacco (Nicotiana glauca)* \nElongated yellow flowers. The Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. \nIt does not contain nicotine. It contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. \nUsed as an insecticide. Do not smoke it. \n**The Hike**\nDistance: 5 miles\nGain: 700′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty: (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781) Beginner.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road.\nTrail Variations: Rolling stroll.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \n**Hosting** \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. This hike does not have any junctions or turns once past the initial path down to the fire road. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nSince this hike is out-and-back on a wide fire road with no turns after the first 500′\, one cannot get lost. Therefore\, for this hike\, it will be acceptable to split from the group moving faster\, slower\, or otherwise at your own pace. \nGroup separation:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Directions:** \nLas Llajas Canyon Trail\n5715 Evening Sky Dr\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063 \nFrom the west: 23-N to 118-E\, Exit 29 Yosemite.\nFrom the east: 118-W\, Exit 29 Yosemite.\nHead north on Yosemite for 1.25 miles. Turn right (east) on Evening Sky Drive and proceed for 0.5 miles. See the trail head on the left. Park along the street. \n**Release of Liability:** https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/las-llajas-suitable-for-beginners-2/
LOCATION:Las Llajas Canyon Trail trailhead\, 5715 Evening Sky Drive\, Simi Valley\, CA\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/03113319/103011_image_676x380.webp
GEO:34.2969901;-118.6803337
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220409T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220409T180000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220212T031640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220212T031640Z
UID:10001018-1649516400-1649527200@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Ventura Spring Wine Walk
DESCRIPTION:Many of us from this group will attend this event. In the past\, the Ventura Wine Walks have been a really incredible time! \nThis time\, I don’t recommend buying tickets. Instead\, buy what you want to eat and/or drink as needed at various businesses\, or bring you own (fastest and least expensive). \nIf you do want to buy tickets\, here’s a link:\nhttps://cbfproductions.ticketspice.com/spring-wine-walk-2022?utm_source=Master+List+03%2F20&utm_campaign=087c53d8cd-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2022_02_09_06_58_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bbbffeddc7-087c53d8cd-455226056&mc_cid=087c53d8cd&mc_eid=541bf20b05 \nThe Ventura Spring Wine Walk & Vendor Fair will once again return to beautiful Ventura on Saturday\, April 9\, 2022! \nThis beautiful Spring day in Ventura will kick off with the FREE Vendor Fair from 11am-6:30pm in Downtown Ventura from the Museum of Ventura County through the 600 block of Main Street with vendors and live entertainment. Shop artists\, crafters\, non-profit organizations\, commercial and food vendors. The street fair and entertainment is FREE and open to the public starting at Noon! \nTHE WINE WALK: 3pm – 6pm \nAt 3 pm\, the Ventura Spring Wine Walk gets started! The Wine Walk will showcase Wineries and Breweries in your favorite Downtown businesses. Each guest will receive a tasting cup and a map of the participating tasting sites in Downtown Ventura. \nEach tasting site will have a designated area set up for Wine Walk guests to sample the amazing wines or beers! Wine tasting will end at 6:00 pm. \nAs you stroll down Main Street you will be surrounded by a warm Spring ambiance of live entertainment and hundreds of local vendors. Space Is Very Limited and this event Sells Out Every year…Get Your Tickets Today! \n4pm\nWinchesters Grill and Saloon\n632 E Main St.\nVentura\, CA 93001 \nParking can be tricky\, and you may need to walk several blocks. I recommend adding 1/2 hour for parking and walking to our meet point. \nThe event time is set for 3p\, but we’ll meet at 4p. That will give people time to check-in if they bought a ticket\, because the check-in process can take 1/2 hr.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/ventura-spring-wine-walk/
LOCATION:Winchesters Grill & Saloon\, 632 E Main St\, Ventura\, CA\, 93001\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220410T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220410T200000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220408T031621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220408T031621Z
UID:10001098-1649602800-1649620800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mash Site - Malibu Creek State Park Potluck Hike
DESCRIPTION:**[Fit Beginner – 6 miles\, 600′ gain](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)** \nThis is a social hike and an out-and-back event. \nThere is a potluck at the M.A.S.H. site before we turn around for the return. If your item requires paper plates\, utensils\, etc. please bring them. \n[Pot Luck guidelines link](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \nWe will meet at the Grasslands trail head off of Mulholland Hwy and take the Grasslands Trail with a gentle climb and connect to the High Road (~3/4 miles). We’ll take a right and follow the High Road another 3/4 miles then take a right at Crag Road up a short 1/3 mile climb (170′ gain). At the top of the hill\, we’ll take a left turn down the short bypass trail to Century Lake. \nFrom Century Lake\, the trail is level all the way to the M.A.S.H. site. From the lake we’ll continue on Crag Road and at a 1/2 mile we’ll cross over Malibu Creek. The bridge over the creek is washed out\, so we’ll have cross over some fallen branches and rocks just beyond the bridge (I’m not sure of the water level or conditions of the creek\, so there is a chance you may get wet). Another 3/4 miles on Crag Road we’ll reach our destination and have our potluck. \n**Hike**\nDistance: 6.0 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\n[Difficulty](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Fit Beginner.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nTrail Variations: Mostly fire road. May have to cross a creek where the bridge has washed out\, stepping on rocks and fallen branches.\nDuration: 5 hours\nDogs: no\nRestrooms: no\nDrinking Fountains: no\nParking: Free along street. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\n[Snacks and/or beverages to share](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \n**Hosting** \n*Route:* The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted. \n*Navigation:* Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \n*Hike type:* Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \n**[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions)** \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/mash-site-malibu-creek-state-park-potluck-hike-3/
LOCATION:27000 Mulholland Hwy\, 27000 Mulholland Hwy\, Agoura Hills\, CA\, 91301\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.1036477;-118.7161902
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220412T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220412T220000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220212T031641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220212T031641Z
UID:10001019-1649788200-1649800800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mt. McCoy - Cross Lit Hike
DESCRIPTION:Easy Intermediate\, 3 miles\, 700′ gain. \nA special treat: The cross will be lit! The Rotary Club lights the cross for the week from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. \nWe’ll meet in the parking lot at the northeast corner of Madera and Royal\, just south of the Donut Delite\, on the east side of the Clinicas office. We’ll walk from there to the trailhead at 2 Washburn St. where it meets Los Amigos Ave. \nOther groups may be doing this same hike starting at other times\, but we’ll start at 6:30p. Sunset time is 7:24p\, so our hike up will be in daylight and we should be arriving near sunset. \nThe Hike: \nWhile I rate this hike “Easy end of the Intermediate Spectrum” due to the 1 mile continuous incline that can get exhausting\, a fit beginner can easily complete it. \nWe cross Madera and continue through the neighborhood for about 1500′\, to the intersection of Washburn St. and Los Amigos Ave (https://www.google.com/maps/place/2+Washburn+St\,+Simi+Valley\,+CA+93065/@34.2645734\,-118.8010877\,18z/data=%213m1%214b1%214m5%213m4%211s0x80e82ee581e79e9f:0x42c324cfa0d16fd2%218m2%213d34.2645585%214d-118.7999842). Then we enter a path behind the houses and proceed for 250′ to the entrance. So far\, there will have been very little elevation gain. \nWe’ll enter a series of switchbacks (zig-zag trail) for 1.2 miles to a large cross at the top. This is a steady climb across the face of the hill\, always in full view of the neighborhood below. Beginners may find this climb difficult to continue at a fast pace. There is nothing wrong with slowing down while faster hikers move ahead\, or resting for a minute several times during this climb. \nIt may seem easy to get lost because there are many different cross-paths up the face of this hill\, but they all lead to the same place. Generally\, whenever there is a choice of “left or right”\, we take the easier and more worn path. If you happen to find yourself alone and take a wrong turn (aka steep cut)\, all paths lead up. \nAt the top by the cross\, we’ll enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree views and share beverages and/or snacks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nInteresting Notes \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nBlack Sage \nMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \nPurple Sage \nGrey-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. \nDistance: 3 miles (round trip)\nElevation Gain: 700′\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)\nDuration: 3 1/2 hours\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – at nearby places of business\nDrinking Fountains: Yes – at nearby places of business\nParking: Free\nTrail: Mostly single-track\, excellent condition\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK. \nWhat to Bring:\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDisclaimer / Release of Liability:\nhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/mt-mccoy-cross-lit-hike/
LOCATION:Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera\, 1424 Madera Road\, Simi Valley\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/03113646/100920_image_676x380.webp
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220414T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220414T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220331T031646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220331T031646Z
UID:10001081-1649959200-1649971800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Tapo Canyon Tar Pits - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:**[5.4 miles\, 1050′ gain\, Easy Intermediate](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)** \nThis hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in Simi Valley. There are 3 extended inclines\, about 1000 steps each\, on fire road. They are not especially steep\, but they do continue for some time\, which is why it is rated “Easy Intermediate.” There are also several small hills of 100 steps or less. \nThe extended inclines will get the blood pumping during this lollipop hike. We’ll be moving through the famous Tapo Canyon and visiting natural tar pits that bubble up from the ground. \nThe first pit is really a puddle that looks like someone spilled a couple 55-gallon drums of tar that was later contained using a spill rope. The next two are a little larger\, again\, contained by spill ropes to keep the sticky black tar from getting on the trail. \nFrom the trail head\, we’ll start on a leisurely stroll for about 0.6 miles\, followed by a steady climb for the next mile\, completing the first extended incline. \nWe’ll turn left at the junction\, climb a small hill of a couple hundred steps\, and then head down for 1.5 miles. \nWe’ll make a right turn down a smaller trail and go for about 100 yards until we reach the tar pits. After looking around for a bit\, we’ll head back\, and after 0.25 miles\, we’ll come to another junction where we will stop and [share snacks and beverages](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nFor the return\, we’ll turn left and there will be a steady climb for about 3/4 of a mile to another junction. We’ll turn left again and return down for about 1.4 miles to complete the lollipop. \n**Interesting Notes:** \n*[Yellow Star Thistle](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/0/e/6/highres_501188422.jpeg)* \nThorny. Also called yellow cockspur and golden star thistle. Generally considered a weed. Long-term ingestion by horses causes a neurological disorder known as chewing disease\, a lethal lesion of the nigropallidal region of the brain. This disease is expressed as a twitching of the lips\, tongue flicking\, and involuntary chewing. Permanent brain damage is possible\, and affected horses may starve to death. Used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers. In a laboratory study\, aqueous extracts of fresh or dried flowers of yellow star thistle given orally showed significant antiulcerogenic activity in rats. \n**Directions:** \nTapo Canyon\n3802 Tapo Canyon Road\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063 \n*From the 118:* \nExit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.\nTapo Canyon Rd. north for 1.7 miles.\nTrail head on the right\, before Lost Canyon Rd.\nParking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head\, and along the road on both sides. \n*From CA-23:* \nCA-23 north to CA-118 east.\nCA-118 east for 8.7 miles.\nExit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.\nTapo Canyon Rd. north (left) for 1.7 miles.\nTrail head on the right.\nParking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head\, and along the road on both sides. \n**Hike** \nDistance: 5.4 miles\nGain: 1050′\nDistribution: Reasonably well distributed.\nDifficulty: [Easy Intermediate](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)\nShape: Lollipop\, clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations:\nSeveral extended inclines of 1000 steps.\nSeveral steep sections of 300 steps\, but no hands required.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the gravel area in front of the trail head\, and along the road on both sides. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\n[Snacks and/or beverages to share](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \n**Hosting** \n*Route:* The host knows the route.\n*Navigation:* Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \n*Stops:*\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point\, which we will pass\, and then return to after seeing the tar pits. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \n*Group separation:*\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n[Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions) \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/tapo-canyon-tar-pits-easy-intermediate-3/
LOCATION:3803 Tapo Canyon Rd\, 3803 Tapo Canyon Road\, Simi Valley\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220419T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220419T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220408T031621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220408T031621Z
UID:10000638-1650391200-1650403800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Stage Coach - Andora Trailhead - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:**[3.5 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy intermediate](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)**\nNote that we start from the Andora trailhead. \nThis hike will include an extended stay at the top\, where we’ll have a [snack share social event]((https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 30-60 minutes. \nNearly the entire trail is an incline. Fit beginners can complete this hike\, but it will certainly get their blood pumping. \nThere are no super steep sections\, but much of the trail is very rugged\, much like a stair climb. This is not a conditioning hike\, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up and to make sure they make any turns. \nThe hike covers a portion of an old stagecoach road that linked LA with San Francisco in the 1860s. You can see holes that were drilled into the rock for chains to help the stagecoaches up the steeper sections\, during which passengers had to get out of the vehicle. \nWe will begin near the intersection of Andora and Valley Circle. We’ll proceed up a rocky trail past a plaque erected in 1939 to commemorate the old stagecoach route\, then we’ll proceed to the top of the pass for a great view overlooking the valley. \nThere are a variety of ways of getting to the same place and there are many different ways of returning. Please follow the host to take the chosen route. The return route may be slightly different than the way up through a parallel path. \n**Hike**\nDistance: 3.5 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the first half.\n[Difficulty](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nTrail Variations: Some parts of the trail is very rugged over large stones.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes.\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Park in the street. \n**What to bring:**\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \n**Hosting**\n*Route*: The host has plotted this route but never taken it.\nNavigation: GPS navigation as needed. Several of our members are familiar with the route from this trailhead. \n*Hike type*: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \n*Stops*:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include a stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We’ll stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a marking made of baking soda\, or some sticks on the trail forming an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \n*Group separation*:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \n**Directions**\nStage Coach Trail\, Andora trailhead\n9861 Andora Ave.\nChatsworth\, CA 91311\n34.249626\, -118.619625 \n*From CA-118*\nTopanga Canyon (CA-27) south\, 1.4 mi\nRight (west) on Devonshire St for .4 mi\nLeft (southwest) on Valley Circle for .6 mi\nRight (west) on Lassen for 43 ft.\nLeft (southwest) on Andora for 157 ft. \n**[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions)** \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/stage-coach-andora-trailhead-easy-intermediate-5/
LOCATION:9861 Andora Ave\, 9861 Andora Ave\, Chatsworth\, CA\, 91311\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220421T213000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220408T031622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220408T031622Z
UID:10000640-1650564000-1650576600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Lizard Rock Loop
DESCRIPTION:**[Easy Intermediate\, 4.5 miles\, 600′ gain](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)** \nThis is a unique loop through Wildwood Park that takes us to the famous Lizard Rock. \nThere are several extended inclines and a few short but steep climbs that cause this to be rated on the easy end of the intermediate spectrum. Beginners will still have no problem completing this hike\, but they may be cursing some of the inclines and will not be zooming along on the steps or inclines at high speed. \nThere is nothing wrong with taking it slow because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. We’ll be waiting for folks to catch up at the major junctions\, and I’ll be putting down white arrows so that nobody gets lost if they fall way behind. \nWe’ll be starting from the tennis court parking lot 4 blocks east of the trail head parking lot and across the road. \nWe’ll cross to the park side of the road and turn right (west) for 1 block\, where we’ll see an entrance to the Moonridge trail that runs parallel to the road. We’ll enter and make a right\, following it around past the first set of junctions\, continuing for about 1/4 mile\, and then follow it around to the left instead of taking the stem to the right. \nThis will take has past the steps to the trail head parking lot and continue along the Moonridge trail. We’ll follow it around for another 1/2 mile and make a right at the North Teepee Trail fire road and continue for about 200′. \nNext\, we’ll make a left at the Stagecoach Bluff Trail for about 500′\, where it will dead end at a trail of the same name. We’ll make a left and continue for about 1000′ until it dead ends. We make a left\, then the next right to head up to Lizard Rock\, where we’ll [share snacks and beverages](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). \nFinally\, we’ll head back down from the rock\, make a left\, and continue for about 1500′ where it will dead end at the Mesa Trail. We’ll turn right and take this fire road all the way back to the main Wildwood parking lot\, then turn right and follow the road for about 1500′ back to our cars. \n*Returning Early*\nFor those that wish to head back instead of hanging around for the snack share\, you are responsible for finding your own way back. Please follow the posted route and map. \n**Directions**\nWildwood Park\n635 W Avenida De Los Arboles\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91360 \n*From the 118:*\nCA-118 west to CA-23.\nContinue south on CA-23 to exit 15 for 4.8 miles\, Avenida de los Arboles\nTurn right (east) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot. \n*From CA-23:*\nCA-23 to exit 15\, Avenida de los Arboles\nEast on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until it ends.\nTrail head on the left.\nTurn right (east) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot. \n**The Hike**\nDistance: 4.5 miles\, 3.5 hours\nElevation Gain: 600′\nPace: 2.0 mph\n[Difficulty](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – at the start.\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free.\nTrail: Double and single track\, fire road. \n**What to Bring:**\n1-2 liters of water.\n[Snacks and/or beverages to share](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp for evening hikes.\nInsect Repellent. \n**[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions)** \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/lizard-rock-loop-2/
LOCATION:Tennis Court parking lot\, 635 W Avenida de Los Arboles\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/03113135/103306_image_676x380.webp
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220424T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220424T190000
DTSTAMP:20260529T194152
CREATED:20220421T031655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220421T031655Z
UID:10001119-1650812400-1650826800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Cheseboro Canyon MTB trail potluck hike - fit beginner
DESCRIPTION:**Fit Beginner 4.3 miles\, 480′ gain.**\nThere is an out-and-back option that lowers the gain to 230′. \nThis is a pot luck picnic. Please bring something to eat and drink\, and a little extra to share. If your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. \nPot Luck guidelines: [https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) \nWe’ll [share snacks and drinks](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 60-90 minutes\, then return by completing the loop (or returning the way we came if it’s very hot). \n**Fun Facts** \nSo what is MTB?\nAnswer: Mountain Bike (not Mountain Terrain Bike)\nRef: https://pedalchile.com/blog/mtb-meaning\nThe name I see on a map is: Chesebro Canyon MTB Trail \n**Hosting** \n*Route*\nThe host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. The host may vary the route slightly. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \n*Hike type*: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \n*Stops*:\nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind. \n**Interesting Notes** \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \n*[Black Sage](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/3/c/2/highres_503525058.jpeg)*\nMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \n*[Yellow Star Thistle](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/3/c/8/highres_503525064.jpeg)*\nThorny. Also called yellow cockspur and golden star thistle. Generally considered a weed. Long-term ingestion by horses causes a neurological disorder known as chewing disease\, a lethal lesion of the nigropallidal region of the brain. This disease is expressed as a twitching of the lips\, tongue flicking\, and involuntary chewing. Permanent brain damage is possible\, and affected horses may starve to death. Used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers. In a laboratory study\, aqueous extracts of fresh or dried flowers of yellow star thistle given orally showed significant antiulcerogenic activity in rats. \n**Other**\nDogs allowed? Yes \n**Directions** \n0.4 miles from the corner of Cheseboro and Palo Comado Cyn Rd.\nThere is parking off the street at this location. After the 1 lane bridge\, you’ve gone too far. \nCheseboro Canyon MTB trail\n5402 Chesebro Rd\, Agoura Hills\, CA 91301 \n*From I-101*:\nExit Chesebro Rd..Palo Comado Canyon Rd.\nContinue north. It becomes Palo Comado Canyon Rd and rotates west.\nRight at Chesebro Rd. for 0.4 miles.\nPark on the street.\nAfter the 1 lane bridge\, you’ve gone too far. \n**[FAQ](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/23772638/Frequently_Asked_Questions)** \n**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous)**
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/cheseboro-canyon-mtb-trail-potluck-hike-fit-beginner-4/
LOCATION:5402 Chesebro Rd\, 5402 Chesebro Rd\, Agoura Hills\, CA\, 91301\, US
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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GEO:34.147893;-118.7372694
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END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR