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DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260822T070000
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DTSTAMP:20260817T222617Z
CREATED:20260817T222617Z
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UID:10003925-1787382000-1787400000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mount Pinos Campground via McGill Trail
DESCRIPTION:DESCRIPTION: When it’s hot we go early\, we get altitude and head to the mountains! Hiking Mount Pinos will take you away from the summer heat of SCV\, dropping ~20 degrees where you can enjoy alpine views while listening to the breeze gently caressing huge pines. Starting near the Frazier Park sledding location where there is ample parking\, we’ll follow Cuddy Valley Road to the McGill Trailhead. This is an out-and-back\, so if you do not want to do the full hike\, you can safely turn around whenever you like and head back. \nDETAILS:\n1. Hike organizer(s): Michele.\n2. Meet: Cuddy Valley Road trailhead parking area\, Frazier Park\, at 6:45 am\, departure at 7:00 am sharp (Aug 22).\n3. Distance: Approximately 10.38 miles (out-and-back).\n4. Elevation gain: Approximately 1\,923 feet.\n5. Time: Approximately 5 hours hiking\, including a snack break.\n6. Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.\n7. Dogs: Not allowed.\n8. Restrooms: None at the trailhead or along the trail.\n9. Adventure Pass: Required.\n10. Turnaround: This is an out-and-back — turn around at any point if you need a shorter outing. \nIMPORTANT NOTES: There are no expected stream crossings\, technical exposures\, or significant route-finding challenges on this trail. The elevation (8\,800+ feet at the summit) means cooler temps but also thinner air — pace yourself\, especially early. As always\, people may slip and fall\, encounter wildlife\, or face unexpected conditions on this hike. This event may be cancelled due to inclement weather. \nESSENTIAL GEAR: Hiking boots and trekking poles. Clothing layers — temperatures at elevation can be 15–20°F cooler than SCV and conditions can change quickly. Hat and sunscreen. Snacks and a packed lunch. Refillable water bottle with 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets. Bug spray. \nThe Ten Essentials of Hiking (link) \nTHIS HIKE RATING: Level 3\, Intermediate (see chart below).\nPlease only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days\, how would you score on the Santa Clarita Valley Hikers (SCVHikers) hike rating scale of one to five\, assuming a moderate pace (~2.5 mph)? \nSCVH HIKE RATING SCALE:\n1. Beginner: 1–3 miles\, less than 500 feet elevation gain.\n2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1–7 miles\, less than 700 feet elevation gain.\n3. Intermediate: 5–10 miles\, 1000–2000 feet elevation gain.\n4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7–12 miles\, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.\n5. Advanced: 10–17 miles\, 3000 feet or more elevation gain. \nTRAILHEAD LOCATION:\nCuddy Valley Road Trailhead\, Mt Pinos Rd\, Frazier Park\, CA\n(Between Cuddy Valley Rd. and Forest Route 9N05) \nDriving Directions (link) \nNAVIGATION: We highly recommend the AllTrails app be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to. Cell service may be limited in this area — download your AllTrails maps for offline access before you leave home. \nGPS Trail Map (link) \nIf You Need Help on the Trail\nIn AllTrails\, swipe up on the Navigate drawer and tap “GPS details” to see your coordinates. Screenshot them\, then call 911 and read off the numbers. As a backup\, the What3Words app names any location with three words that are easy to read aloud to a dispatcher. Your GPS works even without cell service — you just need signal to make the call.\nWe rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute via cash or Venmo at each hike. \nDISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY — PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY\nWhen you sign up for this event\, you are releasing Santa Clarita Valley Hikers (SCVHikers) and its volunteer organizers from any liability or responsibility in connection with your participation in this activity. Hiking is inherently risky. By signing up\, you are taking full responsibility for your own safety and well-being.\nSCVHikers and its organizers are not trained\, certified\, or compensated guides\, and the club does not confirm the qualifications of any member to lead or participate in its events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions and judgment.\nBy signing up for any SCVHikers event\, you are releasing SCVHikers and its organizers from all liability for possible injury or death\, as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup Terms of Service (available at the bottom of the Meetup website). Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike\, you are confirming that the hike is within your current abilities.\nAt the trailhead\, we will ask every participant to read and sign the SCVHikers Release of Liability and Express Assumption of Risk before the hike begins. If you are unwilling to sign\, you will not be able to join the group that day. Signing up on Meetup does not substitute for the trailhead sign-in.\nThe outing begins and ends at the trailhead. SCVHikers does not organize\, advertise\, or coordinate carpools. Transportation to and from the trailhead is your own responsibility\, and all risks of that travel are yours alone.\nThis event may be cancelled or modified due to weather\, trail conditions\, or other safety considerations.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/mount-pinos-campground-via-mcgill-trail-2/
LOCATION:Paramount Ranch\, 2903 Cornell Road\, Agoura\, CA\, 91301\, US
CATEGORIES:Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club
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ORGANIZER;CN="Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club":MAILTO:Santa-Clarita-Community-Hiking-Club-Meetup-Group-list@meetup.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260829T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260829T140000
DTSTAMP:20260817T222618Z
CREATED:20260817T222618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T222618Z
UID:10003926-1787986800-1788012000@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Crystal Lake to Throop Peak
DESCRIPTION:DESCRIPTION: This is a scouting hike on a trail that’s new to me\, so spots are limited. RSVPs will be waitlisted\, and I’ll confirm attendees after a quick look at recent hiking history. \nThis is a big-day summit hike into the high country of the San Gabriels\, and one of the most rewarding peaks we can reach within a couple hours of Santa Clarita. The route climbs steadily from Crystal Lake to the 9\,138-foot summit of Throop Peak\, where on a clear day the view stretches from the Mojave to the Pacific—Mt. Baldy\, Mt. Baden-Powell\, and Catalina Island all in one sweep. You earn it: the trail gains roughly 3\,400 feet over exposed ridgeline\, most of it in the first half. \nFrom the Windy Gap Trailhead at the upper end of the Crystal Lake Recreation Area\, the trail climbs about 2.1 miles through pine forest to Windy Gap\, crossing two roads along the way (both clearly signed—stay on the Windy Gap Trail). At Windy Gap you join the Pacific Crest Trail heading toward Vincent Gap. From here the PCT climbs gently along a beautiful ridge with big views of the high peaks\, past the Hawkins Ridge Trail junction and an unmarked spur to Mt. Hawkins\, to an easy-to-miss use trail that leads up to Throop Peak. (If you reach the PCT sign for the Dawson Saddle Trail\, you’ve gone too far—turn back.) After summiting\, return the same way. This is high\, dry\, and exposed terrain with very little reliable shade and no dependable water—come prepared to be self-sufficient for the day. \nDETAILS: \n\nHike organizer(s): Tim R.\nMeet: Windy Gap Trailhead parking\, upper lot of the Crystal Lake Recreation Area\, Azusa\, CA 91702\, at 6:45\, departure at 7:00 sharp (Aug 29).\nDistance: Approximately 11.8 miles (out-and-back).\nElevation gain: Approximately 3\,398 feet.\nSummit elevation: Approximately 9\,138 feet (Throop Peak).\nTime: Approximately 7–8 hours hiking\, depending on pace and time on the summit.\nConditioning: You need to be in strong physical condition. This is a sustained\, high-altitude climb with continuous elevation gain\, long exposed stretches\, and thin air above 8\,000 feet. Prior experience at altitude and on hikes of this length is strongly recommended.\nDogs: Not Allowed.\nRestrooms: Available at the trailhead parking area. None along the trail.\nAdventure Pass: Required. A National Forest Adventure Pass (or equivalent Interagency/federal pass) must be displayed in your vehicle to park at Crystal Lake.\n\nIMPORTANT NOTES: There is little shade and no reliable water on the route—carry everything you’ll drink. The turn-offs for the peaks are easy to miss; stay on your downloaded map. Altitude affects people differently\, even the fit—pace yourself and turn around if you feel unwell. As always\, people may slip and fall\, encounter wildlife\, or face unexpected conditions on this hike. Finally\, this event may be cancelled due to inclement weather. \nESSENTIAL GEAR: Sturdy trail shoes or boots with good tread for rocky\, uneven footing. Trekking poles recommended for the sustained climb and descent. Hat\, sunglasses\, sunscreen\, and sun-protective clothing—this trail is mostly exposed. A warm layer and windbreaker for the summit\, where it’s cooler and windier than below. Snacks and a packed lunch. Refillable water bottles or reservoir with at least 3 liters; there is no reliable water on the trail. \nThe Ten Essentials of Hiking (link) \nTHIS HIKE RATING: Level 5\, Advanced (see chart below).\nPlease only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days\, how would you score on the Santa Clarita Valley Hikers (SCVHikers) hike rating scale of one to five\, assuming a moderate pace (~2.5 mph)? \nSCVH HIKE RATING SCALE: \n\nBeginner: 1–3 miles\, less than 500 feet elevation gain.\nBeginner/Intermediate: 1–7 miles\, less than 700 feet elevation gain.\nIntermediate: 5–10 miles\, 1000–2000 feet elevation gain.\nIntermediate/Advanced: 7–12 miles\, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.\nAdvanced: 10–17 miles\, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.\n\nTRAILHEAD LOCATION:\nWindy Gap Trailhead\, Crystal Lake Recreation Area (upper parking lot)\, Azusa\, CA 91702 — approx. coordinates 34.3267\, -117.8323. If your GPS struggles\, navigate to the Crystal Lake Visitor Center (9877 N Crystal Lake Rd\, Azusa\, CA 91702) and follow signs to the Windy Gap trailhead parking. \nDriving Directions (link) \nNAVIGATION: We highly recommend the AllTrails app be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to. Cell service is unreliable up here—download your AllTrails maps for offline access before you leave home. The route follows the well-signed Windy Gap Trail and the PCT\, but the summit use trails to Throop Peak are unmarked and easy to miss. Stay on the AllTrails route. \nGPS Trail Map (link) \nUSFS Angeles NF – Road Status & Alerts (link) \nIf You Need Help on the Trail\nIn AllTrails\, swipe up on the Navigate drawer and tap “GPS details” to see your coordinates. Screenshot them\, then call 911 and read off the numbers. As a backup\, the What3Words app names any location with three words that are easy to read aloud to a dispatcher. Your GPS works even without cell service—you just need signal to make the call.\nWe rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute via cash or Venmo at each hike. \nDISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY — PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY\nWhen you sign up for this event\, you are releasing Santa Clarita Valley Hikers (SCVHikers) and its volunteer organizers from any liability or responsibility in connection with your participation in this activity. Hiking is inherently risky. By signing up\, you are taking full responsibility for your own safety and well-being.\nSCVHikers and its organizers are not trained\, certified\, or compensated guides\, and the club does not confirm the qualifications of any member to lead or participate in its events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions and judgment.\nBy signing up for any SCVHikers event\, you are releasing SCVHikers and its organizers from all liability for possible injury or death\, as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup Terms of Service (available at the bottom of the Meetup website). Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike\, you are confirming that the hike is within your current abilities.\nAt the trailhead\, we will ask every participant to read and sign the SCVHikers Release of Liability and Express Assumption of Risk before the hike begins. If you are unwilling to sign\, you will not be able to join the group that day. Signing up on Meetup does not substitute for the trailhead sign-in.\nThe outing begins and ends at the trailhead. SCVHikers does not organize\, advertise\, or coordinate carpools. Transportation to and from the trailhead is your own responsibility\, and all risks of that travel are yours alone.\nThis event may be cancelled or modified due to weather\, trail conditions\, or other safety considerations.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/crystal-lake-to-throop-peak/
LOCATION:Paramount Ranch\, 2903 Cornell Road\, Agoura\, CA\, 91301\, US
CATEGORIES:Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club
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ORGANIZER;CN="Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club":MAILTO:Santa-Clarita-Community-Hiking-Club-Meetup-Group-list@meetup.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260905T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260905T100000
DTSTAMP:20260820T014013Z
CREATED:20260820T014013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T014013Z
UID:10003928-1788595200-1788602400@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Vasquez Rocks Extended Loop via PCT
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a scenic hike through Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center in Agua Dulce. This moderate loop combines the park’s dramatic rock formations\, high-desert scenery\, and a section of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail.\nDistance: Approximately 3.3–3.4 miles\nElevation Gain: Approximately 500–600 feet\nDifficulty: Moderate\nEstimated Hiking Time: 1.5–2 hours\, depending on group pace and stops\nTrail Type: Loop\nTerrain: Dirt trail\, sandy areas\, uneven and rocky sections\, and moderate climbs/descents\nShade: Very limited\nThe hike winds through one of Southern California’s most distinctive landscapes\, surrounded by massive\, sharply angled rock formations created by millions of years of geologic activity. Vasquez Rocks is also the ancestral Tataviam village of Mapipinga and has a rich cultural history.\nOur route incorporates a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) before continuing through the network of trails within Vasquez Rocks. Expect rolling climbs and descents\, sweeping views of the Soledad Basin\, desert vegetation\, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy and photograph the famous rock formations. LA County describes the comparable PCT/Apwinga loop as a moderate 3.4-mile hike with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain.\nWhat to Expect\nThis is a moderate hike appropriate for hikers who are comfortable walking several miles over uneven terrain and handling moderate elevation changes. The trail is highly exposed\, so sun and heat can significantly increase the difficulty. There is very little natural shade along the route.\nBring: Plenty of water\, sturdy hiking shoes\, sun protection\, hat\, sunglasses\, snacks\, and any personal medications you may need.\nWildlife: This is rattlesnake habitat. Stay alert\, watch where you step or place your hands\, and give all wildlife plenty of space. Dogs should remain leashed.\nHighlights \n\nIconic Vasquez Rocks formations\nHiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail\nPanoramic high-desert and Soledad Basin views\nFascinating geology and cultural history\nNative desert plants and seasonal wildflowers\nExcellent photography opportunities\nA fun moderate loop without committing to an all-day hike\n\nTrailhead: Vasquez Rocks Natural Area\, 10700 Escondido Canyon Road\, Agua Dulce\, CA. The park has an interpretive center\, picnic areas\, trails and restrooms/facilities; drinking water at the Interpretive Center is available during its business hours. \nTHIS HIKE RANKING: Level 2\, Beginner/Intermediate (see chart below).\nPlease only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days\, how would you score on the THC Hike rating scale of one to five assuming a moderate pace (~2.5 mph)?\nTHC HIKE RANKING SCALE: \n\nBeginner: 1-3 miles\, less than 500 feet elevation gain.\nBeginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles\, less than 700 feet elevation gain.\nIntermediate: 5-10 miles\, 1\,000-2\,000 feet elevation gain.\nIntermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles\, up to 3\,000 feet elevation gain.\nAdvanced: 10-17 miles\, 3\,000 feet or more elevation gain.\n\nDISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT\, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:\nWhen you sign up for this event\, you are releasing The Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group\, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event\, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Hiking Club (THC) Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders\, and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any The Hiking Club Meetup events\, you are releasing The Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike\, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/vasquez-rocks-extended-loop-via-pct/
LOCATION:Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park\, 10700 Escondido Canyon Road\, Agua Dulce\, CA\, 91350\, US
CATEGORIES:Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club
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ORGANIZER;CN="Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club":MAILTO:Santa-Clarita-Community-Hiking-Club-Meetup-Group-list@meetup.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260919T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260919T130000
DTSTAMP:20260905T080851Z
CREATED:20260905T080851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T080851Z
UID:10003954-1789801200-1789822800@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mt. Baden-Powell O/B via Vincent Gap – Saturday\, Sept 19
DESCRIPTION:DESCRIPTION: Picture this: you’re standing at the trailhead\, full of enthusiasm and optimism. The sun is shining\, the birds are chirping\, and you’re ready to conquer this mountain like any other hike . However\, Mount Baden-Powell has a dark side that will make you question your life choices. Winding its way up the north face of one of the tallest mountains in the San Gabriels\, this iconic trek features 35 to 40 never-ending switchbacks that exist purely to mock your physical preparation and repeatedly whack your spirit. It’s basically a vertical game of “Whack-a-Mole\,” but your thighs and lungs are the moles. \nYou will earn every single foot of this climb as you ascend through stands of Jeffrey\, Ponderosa\, and Lodgepole pines\, eventually reaching the timberline where you’ll pass Wally Waldon—a 1\,500-year-old Limber Pine who is a local celebrity and has been judging hikers since the fall of the Western Roman Empire. If you survive the switchbacks and the altitude\, the summit rewards you with stunning vistas\, breathtaking views of the San Gabriels\, and a sense of accomplishment that almost makes you forget you have to walk all the way back down. \nHike Organizer(s): Paul H \n\nMeet: Vincent Gulch Divide / Vincent Gap trailhead parking lot at 6:45 AM. We start moving at 7:00 AM sharp on Saturday\, Sept 19 . If you are late\, you will be left behind to contemplate your poor time management skills.\nDistance: Approximately 7.8 to 8.0 miles (out-and-back).\nElevation Gain: Approximately 2\,800 feet of climb.\nHighest Elevation: 9\,407 feet.\nTime: Approximately 4.0–5.0 hours depending on how long we spend weeping or eating sandwiches at the summit.\nConditioning: Moderate/ Strenuous You must be in generally good physical shape. If your main form of exercise over the last 90 days has been scrolling social media\, this hike will break you.\nDogs: OK\, but only if they are on a leash and well-behaved around other dogs and people waving trekking poles.\nRestrooms: YES! There are pit toilets at the Vincent Gap trailhead . Use them to say a quick prayer before we begin.\nThe parking fee details and rules include: It costs $5 per day (Standard Passes Are Not Accepted: Because this lot is concession-run\, traditional federal and state passes—including the National Parks / America the Beautiful Pass and the California Adventure Pass—are no longer accepted inside the paved lot.) If you want to bypass the fee\, you can join the rest of the rebels and park in the dirt pullouts across the road.\n\nIMPORTANT NOTES (Read these or suffer the consequences): \n\n⚠️ CRITICAL ROAD CLOSURE INFO: Highway 2 is closed at Red Box / Islip Saddle Do NOT blindly trust Google Maps or Apple Maps if they tell you to drive up the Angeles Crest Highway from La Cañada. You must take the route through Newhall via CA-14 North and Pearblossom Highway\, coming in from the northeast side through Wrightwood. Plan for extra driving time!\nWeather: Rain\, high winds\, or extreme heat cancels this event. Check the weather before leaving. Remember\, it gets chilly above 9\,000 feet\, so packing a jacket is a smart move even if it’s warm at home.\n\nESSENTIAL GEAR: \n\nWater & Electrolytes: Bring at least 3+ Liters of water and some Gatorade/electrolytes [13\, 19]. There is no potable water at the trailhead or on the mountain.\nTrekking Poles: Highly recommended to preserve your knees and help you balance on the switchbacks.\nLayers: A hat\, sunscreen\, sunglasses\, and an extra layer (jacket/windbreaker) for the windy\, exposed summit.\nFood: High-energy snacks and a solid lunch for our “snacky time” at the summit.\nFootwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with excellent tread are non-negotiable. No slick-soled tennis shoes or sandals unless you want to slide down the mountain on your face.\n\nTHIS HIKE RATING: Level 4\, Strenuous\nPlease only sign up if you have hiked similar distances and gains in the last 90 days.\nSCVH HIKE RATING SCALE: \n\nBeginner: 1–3 miles\, less than 500 feet elevation gain.\nBeginner/Intermediate: 1–7 miles\, less than 700 feet elevation gain.\nIntermediate: 5–10 miles\, 1\,000–2\,000 feet elevation gain.\nStrenuous: 5-12 miles\, 2\,000-3\,500 feet elevation gain (This Hike!).\n\nDISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY — PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY\nWhen you sign up for this event\, you are releasing Santa Clarita Valley Hikers (SCVHikers) and its volunteer organizers from any liability or responsibility in connection with your participation in this activity. Hiking is inherently risky. By signing up\, you are taking full responsibility for your own safety and well-being.\nSCVHikers and its organizers are not trained\, certified\, or compensated guides\, and the club does not confirm the qualifications of any member to lead or participate in its events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions and judgment.\nBy signing up for any SCVHikers event\, you are releasing SCVHikers and its organizers from all liability for possible injury or death\, as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup Terms of Service (available at the bottom of the Meetup website). Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike\, you are confirming that the hike is within your current abilities.\nAt the trailhead\, we will ask every participant to read and sign the SCVHikers Release of Liability and Express Assumption of Risk before the hike begins. If you are unwilling to sign\, you will not be able to join the group that day. Signing up on Meetup does not substitute for the trailhead sign-in.\nThe outing begins and ends at the trailhead. SCVHikers does not organize\, advertise\, or coordinate carpools. Transportation to and from the trailhead is your own responsibility\, and all risks of that travel are yours alone.\nThis event may be cancelled or modified due to weather\, trail conditions\, or other safety considerations.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/mt-baden-powell-o-b-via-vincent-gap-saturday-sept-19/
LOCATION:Mt Baden Powell Vincent Gap Parking Lot\, Hwy 2\, Big Pines\, CA\, US
CATEGORIES:Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club
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ORGANIZER;CN="Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club":MAILTO:Santa-Clarita-Community-Hiking-Club-Meetup-Group-list@meetup.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260926T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260926T130000
DTSTAMP:20260918T062812Z
CREATED:20260918T062812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T062812Z
UID:10003971-1790409600-1790427600@www.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Shake Canyon to PCT Lollipop
DESCRIPTION:VOLUNTEERS: Gary and Deena\nDATE: Saturday September 26\, 2026\nMEET: At Trailhead NO LATER than 8:00 AM – departure promptly at 8:15\nDISTANCE: ~ 7.1 miles\, Lollipop style\nGAIN: 1200’ Gain\nHIKING TIME: ~ 4 – 4.5 hours hiking\nDOGS: Not permitted due to excessive plant growth along creek with poison oak\, plus poodle dog bush\nADVENTURE PASS: Not required\nCLOTHING/PROTECTIVE GEAR: LONG PANTS AND LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS. Gloves recommended. Hiking shoes/boots with good tread. Layers are always a good idea. Hat\, sunscreen; Wet bandana or cooling towel recommended in case of heat. Bring Face Nets! There WILL BE a LOT of flying bugs/gnats/etc trying to fly up your nose!\nHIKING POLES: Highly recommended since we’re crossing an overgrown creek many times!.\nFOOD/DRINKS: Snacks and 2-1/2+ liters of water MINIMUM\, and sufficient electrolytes or salt tablets. We will be stopping along the PCT for a snack break.\nHIKE DESCRIPTION:\nFrom the Lower Shake Trailhead on Pine Canyon Road\, we’ll head up a steep canyon\, with an active stream\, so there is a LOT of plant overgrowth along the creek – and along with that is LOTS of poison oak. I’ve cleared a pathway through it\, but you still have to be aware of what poison oak looks like. IT IS AVOIDABLE IF YOU ARE OBSERVANT AND CAREFUL! \nWe’ll make our way to Upper Shake Campground and take a short breather and water break.\nWe’ll do the trail in “reverse” of many past visits. Rather than walking UP a long road\, we’ll do the uphill on the more pleasant PCT. We’ll climb up the Upper Shake Trail to the shady PCT. Along the PCT\, we’ll stop at a little camping spot the thru-hikers use for a snack break\, then continue on the PCT for quite a while\, towards Forest Route 7N23\, then down that dirt road to Upper Shake Campground\, where we’ll head back down the canyon to the trailhead. We will get great views here and there out over the Mojave and toward Tehachapi. \n**THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3 (Intermediate – see chart below)**:\nHIKE RANKING SCALE – Consider your capabilities before RSVP’ing for a hike to ensure you are properly conditioned for a hike:\n1) Beginner: 1-3 miles\, less than 500 feet elevation gain\n2) Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles\, less than 700 feet elevation gain\n3) Intermediate: 5-10 miles\, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain\n4) Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles\, up to 3000 feet elevation gain\n5) Advanced: 10-17 miles\, 3000 feet or more elevation gain \nWARNINGS: \n\nThe canyon leaving the trailhead has lots of poison oak (and Poodle Dog Bush up higher). If you are squeamish or reactive to poison oak\, I highly advise that you wear long sleeve shirt\, long pants\, and gloves. Higher up the trail\, we’ll find some poison oak\, and quite a bit of Poodle Dog Bush on the crossing the trail. Both Poison Oak and Poodle Dog Bush are toxic to touch. PAY ATTENTION TO THE HIKE LEADER\, AND KNOW WHAT BOTH PLANTS LOOK LIKE\, since they are both very prevalent along parts of the trail\, and hard to avoid if you are not CAREFUL! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you wear long pants and long sleeves. Gloves would be a good idea also. I recommend you have Ivarest Poison Ivy Itch Cream or other suitable alternative. I would put it on before the hike\, but also bring it in case you are exposed to poison oak.\nThere are portions of this trail with adjacent steep drop offs. They are not dangerous\, but if drop offs disturb you\, please bear this in mind.\nWear protective clothing!\nThere are no restrooms at the trailhead or on the hike\, so plan accordingly.\n\nTrail Map (download a GPX file from GAIA GPS)\nhttps://www.gaiagps.com/public/sr87MD9VMTO1Ip1d22pNcE5B/ \nTRAILHEAD LOCATION:\nAVAILABLE PARKING IS EXTREMELY LIMITED (LIKE 3-4 CARS MAXIMUM). BRING A HIGH WHEELBASE VEHICLE IF POSSIBLE.\n20895-21033 Pine Canyon Rd\, Lake Hughes\, CA 93532\nWhat3Words Link to Lower Shake Trailhead location: https://w3w.co/clubbed.procession.categorically \nDRIVING DIRECTIONS (BUT USE WHAT3WORDS!) \nFrom SCV (45 mins): From Santa Clarita\, I recommend San Francisquito Cyn Road from the intersection with Copper Hill Drive. Head North on San Francisquito Cyn for 19.9 miles\, through Green Valley to the junction with Elizabeth Lake Road – bear left. At next main junction with the Lake Elizabeth sign ahead of you\, turn left and go 4.6 miles into Lake Hughes town and out the other side. After seeing the junction with Lake Hughes Road come in on your left\, stay on Pine Canyon Road\, for 4.5 miles more after the Lake Hughes Road junction. Trail head is on left (look for mile marker 4.54). \nFrom 5 FWY: Take the 5 North and get off at Exit 176B\, Lake Hughes Road/ Castaic. Turn right at bottom of ramp\, (McDonalds will be at the first light\, on left). Go straight through light\, following Lake Hughes Road\, for 22.9 miles from McDonalds out of town to Lake Hughes. Arriving at the junction of Lake Hughes Road and Pine Canyon Road\, turn left and head almost 5 miles North out Pine Canyon Road to the trailhead. Look for white Mile Marker 4.54\, on the right of road. Park on the shoulder opposite the posts at trail head (see photos of trailhead/ mile marker in the album attached to this listing). \nFrom Antelope Valley/ Acton: Drive West taking Elizabeth Lake Road through Leona Valley to Lake Hughes. Pass through Lake Hughes town and after seeing the junction with Lake Hughes Road come in on your left\, continue straight. Now on Pine Canyon Road\, drive almost 4.5 miles to the trailhead (white Mile Marker 4.54)\, details above and photos in album attached/ below. \nThe Ten Essentials of Hiking (link) \nNAVIGATION: For ALL hikes\, we highly recommend you use a GPS software app (GAIA or AllTrails) on your cell phone. Cell service may be spotty in the canyon—download the GAIAGPS map for offline access before you leave home. \nIf You Need Help on the Trail\nIn AllTrails\, swipe up on the Navigate drawer and tap “GPS details” to see your coordinates. Screenshot them\, then call 911 and read off the numbers. Your GPS works even without cell service — you just need signal to make the call.\nWe rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. We gladly accept cash or venmo. \nDISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT\, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:\nWhen you sign up for this event\, you are releasing SCVHikers from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group\, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event\, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. SCVHikers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders\, and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any SCVHikers Meetup events\, you are releasing SCVHikers Meetup Group and hike organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike\, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities. \nSHAKE CANYON: HISTORY\, GEOLOGY & CHARACTER \nShake Canyon is a surprisingly historic and geologically interesting corner of the Angeles National Forest\, tucked against the north side of Sawmill Mountain west of Lake Hughes. Its character comes from the unusual combination of a shady\, tree-lined canyon\, nearly century-old recreation sites\, abandoned Forest Service infrastructure\, the Pacific Crest Trail\, and the nearby San Andreas Fault system. \nLower Shake Camp and Upper Shake Campground were established by at least the 1930s. A 1938 Los Angeles County Trails Magazine describes driving Pine Canyon Highway to a rough access road leading ¼ mile to Lower Shake Camp\, then hiking a “beautiful tree lined canyon” 1½ miles to Upper Shake Campground and continuing toward Sawmill Mountain. The complete recommended outing was about ten miles. A nearby Pine Canyon Ranger Station issued fire permits. \nThus\, both the campgrounds and their access roads/trails are at least about 90 years old\, and possibly older. By the 1950s\, USGS maps show Lower Shake\, Upper Shake\, Sawmill Campground\, the ranger station and an extensive network of motorways\, firebreaks and trails.\nGeologically\, the setting is exceptional. Pine Canyon Road follows the San Andreas Rift Zone\, the great tectonic corridor separating the Pacific and North American plates. Shake Canyon also contains a separate Shake Canyon Fault\, named by USGS geologists for exposures near Upper Shake Campground. \nThe historic canyon trail eventually reaches the Pacific Crest Trail\, linking an early Southern California recreation route with today’s Mexico-to-Canada trail system. Upper Shake later became accessible by Forest Service road\, but storm damage forced its closure in 2005; the Forest Service subsequently planned reconstruction. \nToday the area’s appeal is partly its sense of forgotten history: old roads\, pipes\, campground sites and trails remain among oaks\, maples and surprisingly lush canyon vegetation. Shake Canyon feels less like a modern trail and more like walking through layers of Southern California geology\, early Forest Service history and nearly a century of mountain recreation.
URL:https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/shake-canyon-to-pct-lollipop/
LOCATION:Online event
CATEGORIES:Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club
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ORGANIZER;CN="Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club":MAILTO:Santa-Clarita-Community-Hiking-Club-Meetup-Group-list@meetup.com
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