Rancho Sierra Vista to Ranch Overlook Figure 8 Loop
2025-04-24 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa Main Parking Lot, Pinehill Avenue, Newbury Park, ca, 91320, United States
This will be a figure 8 loop throughout the upper mesa of Rancho Sierra Vista. We will see many California poppies and Mariposa lilies as well as enjoy the green hills. Bring plenty of water, wide hat, sturdy shoes or boots and hiking poles if you favor them.
Total distance is roughly 6 miles, with about 1000′ of elevation gain. There is little shade during this hike.
Note that this is a gentler hike but not a beginner hike. It is a convoluted trail so we will try to keep the group together. We will go about 2.5mph.
Directions:
Rancho Sierra Vista/Point Mugu · Newbury Park, CA
How to find us
Exit Ventura Fwy (101) at Lynn Road. Take Lynn Road southwest 5.25 miles to Via Goleta. Rancho Sierra Vista entrance (through the stone pillars and arch) is on the left. Drive to the end, and park near the restroom
Lunch Afterwards: Three Amigos on Reino Road in Newbury Park
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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 trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
All participants must be 18 or older.
By now you should know the guidelines to participate in our morning hikes. Please review them before you sign up for the hike. And just in case, here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:
https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs on this hike
Bring ample hydration.

Hill Canyon - Hawk Lollipop - Easy Intermediate, beginner option
2025-04-24 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Hill Canyon Trailhead, 10241 Hill Canyon Road, Camarillo, CA, US
5.3 miles, 600′ gain, Easy-Intermediate
2.5 miles, 100′ gain, Beginner
We 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.
For 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, where we’ll share snacks and beverages for about 60 minutes.
Easier Option.
For those that want to keep it beginner, don’t turn right at the junction and continue for 1/4 mile and no gain. That same picnic table will be on the right.
Return.
Continue the loop for 1/4 mile, then a relatively flat walk back for about a mile. For those that took the easy option, that same return is the way we came.
Hike Distance: 5.3 miles, Beginner option is 2.5 miles.
Gain: 600′, Beginner option is 100′.
Distribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the second quarter.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate/Easier option is beginner.
Shape: Lollipop.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road.
Trail Variations: The first mile is mostly flat.
All of the trail is well groomed and not rugged.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: Yes, at trailhead
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free in lot next to trail head.
What to bring:
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. Click the link to see it.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.
Hike 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.
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
Wild Oats
The 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.
Red Brome
Grass like with thorny appearing tops. A sub-species of foxtail chess. Can lead to flash fires. Winter fires don’t kill the seeds.
Directions:
Hill Canyon Trailhead
10241 Hill Canyon Road (address is before trailhead, continue to gravel lot on left)
Santa Rosa Valley, CA 93012
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.226495, -118.930374
From CA-118:
CA-118 west to CA-23 south.
Exit 19 Tierra Rejada Rd., turn right (west) for 0.5 miles
Left (south) on Moorpark Rd. for 1.4 miles.
Right on Santa Rosa Rd. for 3.7 miles.
Left on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.
Parking in gravel lot on left.
From CA-101 (from Camarillo and farther west):
Exit Santa Rosa Rd. north for 4.9 miles.
Turn right (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.
Parking in gravel lot on left.
From CA-23 and CA-101 (from Thousand Oaks):
North on CA-12 for 3.1 miles.
Exit 16 Sunset Hills Blvd. and left (west) for 0.9 miles.
Left (west) on E. Olsen Rd. for 0.8 miles.
Right (north) on N. Moorpark Rd. for 1.9 miles.
Continue on Santa Rosa Rd. west for 3.7 miles.
Turn left (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.
Parking in gravel lot on left.
Parking can be very tight because it is also popular with bicyclists. Car pooling suggested, because it would be sad for someone to not be able to hike because there isn’t any place to park.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

INFORMATIONAL POSTING -36th Annual Beginning Backpack Class
2025-04-24 23:00 - 23:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | La Crescenta-Montrose, La Crescenta-Montrose, CA, US
INFORMATIONAL POSTING ONLY
Have you ever wanted to learn to backpack and get away from the crowds of people? Learn how to backpack in 3 Saturday courses (4/26, 5/10, 5/17) culminating in a backpack trip on 5/31-6/1 to utilize the techniques you learned. Course times are 10:30 AM-2:30 PM Learn what to take, latest in equipment, what to do before you leave LA. Backpacking equipment demonstrations and giveaways. Send contact information, email and phone number, $50 payable to the Sierra Club and mail to David Meltzer, 214 Main Street #353, El Segundo, CA 90245. Your check secures your reservation. The Course will be held in La Cresenta. Once your registration is confirmed you will receive more info.
This class fills up every year so please be sure to sign up early by sending in your check. Upon receipt of the check, I will send a confirmation letter to you. Questions about the class can be addressed to me at dwm@sprucehc.com
Remember- To participate in the backpacking class you must send in the registration fee. Walk ups the day of class will not be accepted due to the limited size of the class and it fills up early.
Cancellation Policy: No refunds once your spot in the course is confirmed

𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝙱𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙲𝚊𝚖𝚙 𝚃𝚛𝚎𝚔 - EBC! Includes helicopter ride down-
2025-04-25 19:00 - 2025-05-08 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | los angeles international airport, Los Angeles, CA, United States
This is definitely a next step if you have done your wilderness training.
It embodies adventure and the romance of traveling to far off places. It is also tempered with safety and do-ability.
I am a certified WFR and will be traveling with the entire way.
The actual dates are Apr 25-May 11, 2025 and the trip is 17 days/16 nights.
We have done this adventure twice already, in 2021 and 2022, and everybody had a blast! CLICK HERE to see attendee photos of the EBC trek
WE HAVE MADE CHANGES BASED UPON EXPERIENCE.

We are ADDING Yoga and Meditation, and a local expert TO BE WITH US to guide in Buddhist practice and local culture.
We are ADDING two days while going up to better acclimatize.
We are ADDING a HELLICOPTER FLIGHT from our highest camp back to start point AND REMOVING two days going down by taking the flight.

To clarify. We are NOT going up to the top of Everest (29,000’)
We are going to Everest Base Camp at 17,600’
Our starting elevation will be in Lukla at 9,400’
You need to be of average or better fitness. If you can manage walking 3-6 hours a day, up and down a hill while carrying a light daypack, you will be OK! If you are very fit and work out and train, you will be at the front.
Professional guides to lead, and Yaks to carry our gear are included. And a Yak Herder too!!
All that is left for us to carry is our water, snacks and camera.
But I don’t have the needed gear?!
Sleeping bag and parka, rated to -10C are provided and walking poles too!
Does this include food?
All meals on the trek potion are included.
What is lodging like?
We are sleeping in a series of “Tea Houses” along the route. You will have a bed in a shared room with roommate (from the group). Sorry, a solo room will not be available on this trip. We will pair up everybody.
How dangerous is this? What if I get sick or hurt?
This is NOT the summiting Everest with people dying from bad choices. We will be walking on an established, well used trail the entire time, and NOT on snow or ice. Stats from past years show that 30,000 people a year do the EBC Trek. With all that said, . . . our trip INCLUDES emergency insurance. We are also Certified Wilderness First Responders.
Plain and simple, safety is our primary goal. We will have an experienced guide and porters, and we will be along the entire way.
How much does this cost?
Everest Base Camp Trip $3750 – 17 Days, land only (airfare not included)
For this trip we don’t offer single occupancy and we match you with a roommate if you don’t have one.
We might be able to organize a group airfare from Los Angeles (LAX):**
Group Airfare would be around $1600. We will be working on this in the summer of 2024.
RSVP to this event shows your interest, but does not hold your space.
The only way to secure your spot for this trip is a $250 deposit for the land portion: CLICK HERE FOR SECURE DEPOSIT LINK
Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).
For more information fill out this form: https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8
Land Cost includes:

Airport pick up and drop off 4 times
3 nights at Kathmandu hotel
13 nights Tea House accommodation during the trek.
Kathmandu / Lukla Flights
All entries, required permits and taxes
Guide, Assistant guides and Porters
Food and drinks during the trek
Helicopter ride back from Gorakshep to Lukla
Sim Card
Sleeping bag, down jacket, hiking poles
Welcome and Farewell dinner
Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu

This is the adventure of a lifetime!
It is done in a safe manner and includes lots with no surprises.
To receive detailed itinerary, inclusions etc CLICK HERE and fill out our google form.
AND/OR if you have questions?
Message direct to Anna (flights and itinerary)
Message Direct to Marc (screen name Oddie)
AND/OR
We do a Zoom Q & A (every other) Wed 6:00-7:30 PM
CLICK HERE FOR THE Zoom Event
CLICK HERE for Google Form to get Reminder for the zoom
NOTE: The “land portion” of this trip starts in Kathmandu on Apr 25 and ends on Mar 11. This event is longer than Meetup date range. Or April 9th to March 12th if you include flight time.
SOT 2000318-10
As a meetup group we have gone to EBC, Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu, Galapagos and other bucket list place. Come alone and leave with new lifelong friends.
Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!

Hike to the Hollywood Sign/Bronson Caves - Mt. Lee Summit
2025-04-26 07:30 - 10:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Canyon Drive Parking, 2974 Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, CA, US
I’m very excited to plan another hike up to the Hollywood Sign and the Bronson Caves.
This will take us to the summit of Mt. Lee where we will get the best views of the Hollywood Sign. The total mileage for our journey will be approximately 7 miles. Our elevation change should be about 1,200 ft.
We will meet at the end of Canyon Drive which is where we will park. There will be parking options right at the address listed, on the left, and also right before that lot on a dirt patch.
We will be on Canyon Drive to start on up the canyon. Once we hit Mulholland Trail we will head left and this will take us to views of the front of the Hollywood Sign. After this we’ll go a short ways up the spiral road up to the summit of Mt. Lee. Once we’ve reach the top, we’ll head back down to where we started. Once we get to the end, we’ll go on a slight detour to the Bronson Caves. This is the Batcave from Batman. How cool is that?!
Bring lots of water, sunscreen, snacks/food, jacket, and anything else you think you’ll need.
Here is the address (this will take you to the parking lot): 2974 Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Dogs are allowed on this hike.
There is a bathroom in the parking lot.
Please ask any questions you may have.

The Joel McCrea Ranch Loop
2025-04-26 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Arroyo Vista Community Park, Tierra Rejada Road 4550, Moorpark, CA, 93021, United States
Another grand tour of some of our favorite open spaces and surrounding neighborhoods including Santa Rosa Valley, Wildwood Park, Hill Canyon and the star of the this ride, The Joel McCrea Ranch.
The ranch was the beloved home of legendary film actor Joel McCrea and his wife, actress Frances Dee. On the advice of close friend Will Rogers they established and maintained a working ranch, raising cattle and farming the land — something to fall back on in case things did not work out in Hollywood.
The main house and other structures are significant works of architect John Byers and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The McCrea family donated a significant portion of the ranch to Conejo Recreation and Park District to preserve its history and allow public access.
🚵‍♂️The ride will be about 30 miles with about 3.5 miles on wide and hard-packed dirt trails. There will be a couple of bridged creek crossings. Total ascent is appx 1300′
DIRECTIONS
We’ll meet in Lot A of Arroyo Vista Community Park. Enter the park through Gate 3

Ride with the SoCal eBike Riders
2025-04-26 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | West Tasting Room, East Thousand Oaks Boulevard 1867, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, United States
Join us for a grand tour of some of our favorite open spaces and surrounding neighborhoods including Santa Rosa Valley, Wildwood Park, Hill Canyon and the star of the this ride, The Joel McCrea Ranch.
For more information an RSVP click or tap here

Beach Hike on the beach and bluffs at Carpinteria
2025-04-26 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles), 2025-05-03 11:00 - 15:30 (America/Denver) | Viola Fields, 6145 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA, US
DESCRIPTION: This is a enjoyable hike along the beach and bluffs. Our hike starts at Viola Fields in Carpinteria. The trail takes us to Rincon Beach. Along the way we pass great views of the Pacific Ocean shore line. We descend down to the shore and enjoy a ocean breeze as we walk on the sandy beach collecting shells and enjoying our time. Our hike takes us pass Rincon Point and heading north just short of Bates Beach. We will walk back to Viola Fields and hike to Carpinteria. The wildflowers should be in full bloom. We’ll pass by many more views of the shore line. Then a stop at the seal beach sanctuary. Our hike will continue along the shoreline to Linden Ave. Hike Linden Ave. to Carpinteria Ave. Have lunch at 5065 Carpinteria Ave at Rincon Brewery then return to Viola Fields.
DETAILS:
· Hike leader volunteer(s): Dave.
· Meet location: Viola Fields, 6145 Carpinteria Ave. April 26th.
· Distance: ~ 8 Miles total (out and back style)
· Elevation gain: ~ 725′
· Time: Approximately 4 hours hiking including a lunch break and time to enjoy the beach.
· Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.
·Dogs are not allow on Rincon and Carpinteria State beaches
· Hiking Poles – Not needed
· Restrooms – At Viola Fields, Rincon, Rincon Brewery and Carpinteria State Park.
· Adventure Pass – No
IMPORTANT NOTES: We’ll hike at a moderate pace and ask everyone to stay with the group for a friendly and safe outing. Any guest that you wish to invite should join the Community Hiking Club (CHC) to participate. Depending on water flow, we may cross streams. As always, people may slip and fall, encounter poison oak, snakes, etc. on this hike. This event may be cancelled due to inclement weather at the start of the hike. Check the weather report and plan according.
ESSENTIAL GEAR:
Hiking boots, bug net and poles.
Clothing layers recommended.
Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets.
Hat and sunscreen.
Additional Hiking and Survival Gear Recommendations (link)
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 2/3, Intermediate*(see chart below) -*
CHC HIKE RANKING SCALE:
1. Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3. Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5. Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAIL Location: Viola Fields
6145 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013
Driving Directions (link)
FILE DOWNLOADS
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.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5

Easy Overnight to Sheep Canyon Primitive Campground + Collins Benchmark Dayhike
2025-04-26 10:00 - 2025-04-27 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Spring Canyon Trailhead at Lynn Oaks Park, Capitan Street 315, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, United States

Hike at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park - Nix Nature Center
2025-04-27 08:00 - 10:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Nix Nature Center Parking Lot, 18751 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA, 92651, US
The hike we will be doing will be around 5 miles long with 875 ft. of elevation gain. This will be a loop starting at the parking lot of Nix Nature Center. As you will see on the map, this is at the main park entrance off of the 133 (Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area). Please reference the map for a detailed location as there aren’t many streets to list for directions.
The hike we will be doing will start on the Little Sycamore Canyon Trail. Then we will turn left onto the Serrano Ridge Trail, then another left onto the Camarillo Canyon Trail. We will make a left on the Stagecoach South Trail and take that back to the beginning.
Most of the trails are moderate, with one part having a decent incline.
Here is a link to the park map:
https://ocparks.com/lagunacoast
Dogs are not allowed at this park.
Parking is $3, unless you have an OC Parks Annual Permit. If you hike a lot, it’s totally worth it: http://ocparks.com/about/fees/pass

Kern Gateway Trail site visit and exploration (Across from Upper Richbar)
2025-04-27 08:30 - 11:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Shell, CA-178, Bakersfield, CA, 93306, US
Kern Gateway Trail Hike
Join us to learn more about the Kern Gateway Trail and to see for yourself what a beautiful and unique outdoor amenity it will create for the Kern County / San Joaquin Valley region. RSVP to get your name on the list.
This site visit will include a talk from community members working towards creating the trail. There will also be a short walk to see a portion of the trail and get exposure to its dramatic beauty.
Please bring outdoor/hiking trail shoes, water, a hat, sunscreen, and clothing appropriate for the weather. The trail begins with a short but steep climb. If you plan on hiking with us after the presentation, bring hiking poles, trail shoes with good tread, water, snacks, and sunscreen.
For Bakersfield carpoolers, meet at the Shell gas station on HWY 178 and Commanche by 8:15. We will leave promptly at 8:30 am to give us enough time to arrive at the trailhead before 9:00 a.m.
Or meet at the trailhead: Park at Stark Creek. GPS Coordinates: 35° 28′ 31.79″ N, 118° 43′ 27.91″ W by 9:00 a.m.
If you have not signed the petition in support of the Kern Gateway Trail, please sign. https://www.change.org/p/usfs-city-of-bakersfield-kern-county-create-a-hiking-trail-system-at-the-gateway-to-the-kern-canyon
*** PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY *** No one in the group is a guide or in any way responsible for your comfort or safety. Please be prepared with adequate gear and supplies for the trip. Please remember that going out into the wilderness has risks, and you should be aware and prepared to address any changes in weather and road conditions or to look out for/avoid random acts of nature, including insects, wild animals, and natural hazards. You are responsible for evaluating the difficulty of any activity you participate in and deciding whether you are prepared by having the experience, skill, knowledge, equipment, and physical and emotional stamina to participate safely.
*** WAIVER OF LIABILITY *** The Organizers and members in this group are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for their safety. By attending a hike or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers, and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers, and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Southern Sierra Hiking Club Meetup Group from and against all liability arising from your participation in the group activities.
By RSVPing, you acknowledge that you agree to the above statements.

Malibu Creek SP Visitor Center
2025-04-27 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Malibu Creek State Park Visitor Center – HWD, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, United States
I’ll be working in the Malibu Creek State Park Visitor Center on this Sunday. We are open from Noon to 4pm. Stop by and say hello — and for a private tour.
About the VC
The MCSP Visitor Center (VC) is a historic building and is over 100 years old. Malibu Creek Docents operate the VC. Here you will see a museum representative of the Park’s natural and human history: animals and tracks, birds, rocks and fossils, pictures of flowers, a model Chumash village display and artifacts, and movie history. There is a Children’s Nature Room with activities for children of all ages. Maps, books, drinks, apparel and souvenirs are for sale.
Directions
Visit at your convenience. A one mile walk from the lower parking lot will take you to the VC. It is not possible to drive directly to the VC. Its close to the Rock Pool trail. Use this Google map pin to get you there on foot from anyplace in park
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EQY8G3Zm1G4BpVs27

Wildwood Park Potluck Hike - Las Flores
2025-04-27 16:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 604 W Avenida De Las Flores, 604 W Avenida De Las Flores, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, US
Fit Beginner – 4 miles, 600′ gain
The gain is well distributed, with half being on the return.
We 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.
We’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.
This is a potluck picnic. Please bring some food and drinks to share.
If your item requires it, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any.
We’ll share snacks and drinks for 60 – 90 minutes, before heading back the way we came.
The Hike
Distance: 4 miles
Gain: 600′
Distribution: Well distributed.
Difficulty: Fit Beginner
Shape: Out and Back.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire Road, Single-Track, and Double-Track.
Duration: 4.0 hours
Dogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.
Restrooms: Yes, at the picnic area.
Drinking Fountains: Yes, at tje picnic area.
Parking: Free along street.
What to bring
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots.
Flashlight or headlamp (if it will be dark during any part of the event).
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share.
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. Click the link to see the route.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed
Hike 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.
Stops:
The 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.
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.
Group 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.
Directions
Las Flores Trailhead
604 W Avenida De Las Flores
Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Ride the Two Winds (Dos Vientos) - Gentler Friendly Hike
2025-04-29 10:00 - 12:30 (America/Denver) | Dos Vientos Community Park, 4801 Borchard Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
This is a second and easier hike for Tuesday. Jaesoon is on vacation.
This hike will loop around the periphery of Dos Vientos Open Space, passing Twin Ponds, overlooking Potrero Road and the Oxnard Plain with the Channel Islands in the background. We will cross 3 streets along the way.
This hike is about 5.0 miles with 800 feet of elevation gain.
Pace: This is a gentler friendly hike. We will go at a slightly slower pace than the Intermediate Trailblazer Hikes and we will finish in about 2-2 1/2 hours, but this is not a beginner hike. Faster hikers are welcome to join us so long as they are willing to hike at the slower pace of the group or wait at the forks on the trail. There are many confusing side trails in Dos Vientos so I ask that everyone plan to stay in contact with the group, not too fast and not too slow!
Please note this trail is very exposed (no shade) and there is no water along the way.
DIRECTIONS: From the 101 Freeway in Newbury Park, exit at Borchard Road. Drive 3.4 miles and turn into the Dos Vientos Community Park on the right, just after Via Ricardo (and before Via Las Brisas). Meet near the tennis courts to the left.
If you are coming from the NW, exit Wendy and turn left on Wendy and then a right on Borchard to Dos Vientos Community Park.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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 trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.

Two Peaks in the Western Plateau
2025-04-29 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver) | Conejo Canyons Trail Head, 2010 Conejo Center Dr, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
Meet at the Conejo Canyons trailhead next to the Thousand Oaks Recycling Center on Conejo Center Drive, near the end of Rancho Conejo. We’ll walk down the fire road to Hawk Canyon and then we will take Hawk Canyon to Five Points. From Five Points, we will take the Western Plateau trail up to intersection with the Outlaw Loop trail. We will take the Outlaw Loop trail up to Mt.Elliot. We will take the Lichen trail to the transmitter tower. We will take a short break at the transmitter tower and then take the fire road back to the cars.
The total distance of this lollipop hike is about 6.7 miles with approximately 1400′ gain. Some of the sections are rocky; trekking poles may be advisable.
On this hike, you’ll see the Conejo Airfield (honest!), Mt. Rex’s backside, at least two wrecked cars, lots of fennel, and maybe a rattlesnake and a tarantula or two. Plus, impressive views of the Santa Susannah Mountains (if it’s clear), two or three rocky canyons, and the new biotech developments nearby.
UPDATE: Please review the revised guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike at an intermediate pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs allowed.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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 trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

WTC Book Club Is Ba-ack!
2025-04-29 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Canyon Drive 221, Borrego Springs, CA, 92004, United States
Inspired by forests, trees, leaves, roots, and seeds, The Language of Trees: A Rewilding of Literature and Landscape invites readers to discover an unexpected and imaginative language to better read and write the natural world around us and reclaim our relationship with it. In this gorgeously illustrated and deeply thoughtful collection, Katie Holten gifts readers her tree alphabet and uses it to masterfully translate and illuminate beloved lost and new, original writing in praise of the natural world. With an introduction from Ross Gay, and featuring writings from over fifty contributors.
Join us even if you haven’t finished reading the book (there won’t be any spoilers).

Happy Camp - Suitable for beginners
2025-04-29 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Happy Camp, 15100 Happy Camp Canyon Road, Moorpark, CA, US
Beginner, 5 miles, 500′ gain. Bug spray recommended.
This hike is entirely fire-road and is almost completely flat. Some of this trail is sandy, so walking it at times can be more difficult. There are a lot of different interesting plants on this hike.
From the trail head, we walk along the fire road next to the golf course for 1.3 miles until making a left at a junction.
Please be advised that from that point on, there is a no dogs allowed sign. At some point as we continue, the ground will become very sandy.
The landscape will change from dry to 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](https://www.dropbox.com/s/zlfjtt05uu2bhxn/Snack and Beverage Share.pdf?dl=0), and have a social event for 30-60 minutes, before turning around to head back the way we came. Please bring snacks and/or beverages to share.
Interesting Notes:
You 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:
Russian Thistle, Black Walnut, Caterpillar Phacelia, White Sage, Yucca, Bladder Pod.
Jimson Weed
The plant got its name from Jamestown, because in 1676, Jamestown, VA soldiers ate this plant in their salad and became psychotic for 11 days.
The 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.
The 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.
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.
Depending 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.
Castor Bean
One of the most poisonous plants in the world.
The seeds contain ricin, 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.
The 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 causes skin irritation at the contact point. It is said that just one seed can kill a child.
In 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.
Castor 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.
Used in bone marrow transplants, cancer therapies, AIDS treatment, and can selectively destroy neurons by injecting ricin into nerves.
Directions:
Happy Camp
15100 Happy Camp Canyon Rd.
Moorpark, CA 93021
34.311460,-118.866110
From the 118 and from the 101:
Head to towards the intersection of I-118 and CA-23.
Exit 19A Princeton Ave., turn right (north) if coming from the east, left coming from CA-23.
Princeton Ave. north for 0.2 miles.
Left on Campus Park Dr. for 0.4 miles and continue on Happy Camp Canyon Rd. for 0.7 miles.
Follow signs to Rustic Canyon golf course.
Park on the right in gravel lot, just before golf course paved lot. Do not park in the paved golf course lot, it has a gate that closes at sunset.
The Hike
Distance: 5 miles, 3 1/2 hours
Elevation Gain: 500′
Difficulty: Fit Beginner
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: No. A sign half-way says no dogs. I’m not the dog enforcer, so bring a dog at your own risk.
Restrooms/Drinking Fountains: Yes, inside the golf course clubhouse at the start, but likely closed after dark.
Parking: Free in the gravel lot next to the paved golf course lot.
Trail: Fire Road and some with powdered sand.
What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK. They will get very dusty on this trail.
Flashlight or headlamp.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Reel Rock Screening at Sports Basement Long Beach
2025-04-30 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Sports Basement Long Beach, North Bellflower Boulevard 2100, Long Beach, CA, 90815, United States
Join us for an exhilarating winter adventure as part of the Wilderness Travel Course series. We will be exploring the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes through snowshoeing in a guided expedition. Learn about winter camping techniques, navigation in snow-covered terrains, and essential survival skills in cold weather environments. This event is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to expand their skills in a winter setting while enjoying the social aspect of the group. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or new to snowshoeing, this experience promises to be both educational and thrilling. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to embrace the tranquility of the winter wilderness with a group of like-minded individuals.

Sherwood Forest ~ Los Robles Scenic Loop - Gentler Friendly
2025-05-01 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Los Robles Trail, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, United States
This week we’ll hike about 5 miles with 800′ of total elevation gain, spread out nicely, with a little bonus loop through Oak Creek Canyon.
“Robles” is Spanish for oaks, and we’ll see plenty of them on this beautiful, relaxing hike. After a short street walk to get to the trailhead, we’ll hike along Los Padres Trail through Sherwood Forest- a wooded patch shaded by huge oak trees. We will swing out onto an arcing side trail for a sweeping view of Thousand Oaks before heading back across the grasslands and into the woods again.
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/f/e/a/event_91317322.jpeg
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike at a moderate pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/3/4/event_91317652.jpeg
Directions: From the 101 in Thousand Oaks, turn south on Moorpark Road. Drive 0.5 miles to the dirt/paved parking area at the corner of Greenmeadows Ave., where Moorpark Rd. deadends.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Dogs are not allowed.
Please hydrate before the hike by drinking at least a liter of water.
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
The hike leader may adjust, limit, or re-route the hike on the basis of conditions encountered during the hike.
Please familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Google “Mayo Heat Exhaustion Stroke”.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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 trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
We’ve had heat-related incidents already this year; all of these hikers were experienced. Your personal safety should be your first, and top priority. Please make an honest assessment of your own ability, and plan and act accordingly.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike; please have your friends join The Weekday Trailblazers, and register for the event.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Corriganville the Back Way Double Loop Lollipop
2025-05-01 19:00 - 22:30 (America/Denver) | Rocky Peak Trail, 7900 Santa Susana Pass Rd, Simi Valley, CA, 91311, US
4 miles, 700′ gain, easy-intermediate
Easy option: 2.5 miles, 500′ gain
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 for 1/2 mile, turn right, and make a gradual climb until just before the wildlife tunnel.
We turn left and take a set of switchbacks down into Corriganville. We’ll now be in front of a picnic pavilion.
Easy Option: Wait at the pavilion for about 35 minutes.
The rest of the group can leave their stuff at the pavilion, and will hike a 1.5 mile loop, returning to this same place. We’ll turn right and loop through the park. We’ll pass an outdoor amphitheater, then make a mild climb to the top of a hill.
Next, we’ll turn right at the top, zig-zag down, and then make a left to the wide center trail that leads up through the park to its only parking lot. We won’t cross to the lot yet.
We’ll follow the trail as it bends to the right until it eventually bends back left and heads into the parking area. We’ll then walk along the side of the lot and head back to the picnic pavilion, where we’ll have a social event.
After the event, we’ll circle around the front of the pavilion and walk along railroad tracks for 200 yards towards the park lot. Behind a couple small shacks, we’ll turn left and cross the tracks, then head onto a trail and take this all the way back to Santa Susana Pass Rd. and then our cars.
It is posted that the park closes at sunset, so for this hike, we’ll start heading back before dark.
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
California Sagebrush
Aromatic when crushed. AKA, common sage, coastal sage. Sunflower family. Cowboys used to ride through it and brush up against the pine-shaped leaves, coming home with the smell on their clothes and giving rise to the nickname “Cowboy Cologne.” Not a true sage. Can be used as a cooking spice and can be made into a tea. Tear off some needles by running your hand up the stalk and smell the aroma.
Purple Sage
Grey-green leaves. Aromatic when crushed. Purple flowers. Aka, Tobacco Sage, with mild hallucinogenic properties when smoked. Can be used as a spice or made into a tea. Tea has medicinal affects: Antiviral, gargle for sore throats, reduce hay fever symptoms and other drying actions. In the last summer, fall, and winter months, the flowers will have turned brown and the leaves we take on a greyer color.
Directions
Rocky Peak Exit, South Side of CA-118
Simi Valley, CA 93065
34.267447, -118.634809
From the 118
Exit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.
Park on south side of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.
From the 101 @ CA-23
North CA-23 for 8.4 miles.
East I-118 for 14 miles.
Exit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.
Park on south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.
The Hike
Distance: 4 mi., easy option 2.5 mi.
Elevation Gain: 700′, easy option 500′.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate, easy option – Fit Beginner
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: Yes, at the picnic pavilion.
Drinking Fountains: Yes
Parking: Free, south side of CA-118
Trail: Single Track, Double Track, and fire road.
Purpose: Social
What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp. The last 30 minutes may get dark.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Sunset hike ☀️🌞🌅
2025-05-01 19:10 - 2025-05-02 21:10 (America/Denver) | Hart Park, Alfred Harrell Highway, Bakersfield, CA, 93301, United States
Bring water…
Nothing to extreme …
Trying to catch a sunset

SPRING BACKBONE TRAIL 2025 #5 - Tapia Park to Latigo Canyon
2025-05-03 08:00 - 14:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Latigo Canyon Trailhead, Latigo Canyon Road & Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US
Our fifth Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be l0 miles with 2800’ elevation gain on the BBT going from the Tapia Park area to the Latigo Canyon Trailhead. We will take the Mesa Peak Trail though the upper Corral and Solstice Canyon areas. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude. Rain, excessive heat, or Red Flag alert cancels.
This is a Sierra Club hike, so participants must sign in, carry their medical form, and hike between the leader and sweep. The Sierra Club medical form is available at ttps://tinyurl.com/ycy985mt. We ask you to print it out and bring it with you, but the form will be available at the trailhead as well.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION: We will meet at 8:00 AM at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead on Latigo Canyon Road, from PCH go north 7½ miles on Latigo Canyon Road to a dirt lot on the right side or from the 101 go 7 miles south on Kanan Dume to a left on Latigo Canyon Road then 3 miles to the dirt lot now on your left.
CAR SHUTTLE: From the meeting point at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead we will car shuttle 14 miles to the start point at Piuma and Las Virgenes via Mulholland and Las Virgenes.

Wilderness first aid training
2025-05-03 08:00 - 2025-05-05 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Big Pine Visitor center, Big Pines Highway, Wrightwood, CA, 92397, United States
https://www.californiasurvivaltraining.com/basic-survival-skills-certification-course
Local wilderness first aid training and survival techniques
My certification is up for renewal so I will be attending either the May 3-5 or June 7-9 event. Feel free to browse the website and select dates that work for you. They always have a Christmas sale like BOGO or half off.

Hike at Whiting Ranch - Cactus Hill & Billy Goat
2025-05-03 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Wahoo’s Fish Taco, 27412 Portola Parkway, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610, US
This hike will be about 7 miles total with 1200 ft. of elevation gain.
We are starting at the parking lot at the Wahoo’s parking lot. We will take Live Oak Trail. This turns into Serrano Road which will take us to Serrano Cow Trail. At this part of the trail, we usually see a ton of deer, so cross your fingers! We will get on Sleepy Hollow Trail. This will take us up to Santiago Ranch Road to Cactus Hill. We will take a short break at Four Corners.
From here, we will go down Mustard Road and head back up to Four Corners via Billy Goat Trail. We will come down Whiting Road and then retrace our steps to the parking lot.
Here is a link to the park map: http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=15841
If you have any questions, let me know! I’m looking forward to the hike!
*Dogs are not allowed at this park.
Parking is free in the lot.

SPRING BACKBONE TRAIL 2025 #6 – Latigo Canyon to Encinal Canyon
2025-05-04 08:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Encinal Canyon Trailhead, Encinal Canyon Road & Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US
Our sixth Backbone Trail hike will be 7 miles with 700’ gain on the BBT through Newton, Zuma, and Trancas Canyons. We will start at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead taking the Backbone Trail across Kanan Road then taking the Zuma Canyon Trail over to Encinal Canyon. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude. Rain, excessive heat, or Red Flag alert cancels.
This is a Sierra Club hike, so participants must sign in, carry their medical form, and hike between the leader and sweep. The Sierra Club medical form is available at ttps://tinyurl.com/ycy985mt. We ask you to print it out and bring it with you, but the form will be available at the trailhead as well.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION: We will meet at 8:00 AM at the Encinal Canyon Trailhead. From PCH go 6 miles north on Kanan Dume Road to Mulholland Hwy then west 3½ miles on Encinal Canyon Road to shoulder parking on north side of road just east of Fire Camp #13.
CAR SHUTTLE: From the meeting point at the Encinal Canyon Trailhead we will car shuttle 7 miles to the start point at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead.

Hike at Crystal Cove/Moro Canyon - Ridge Park Entrance/Bommer Ridge
2025-05-04 08:30 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Crystal Cove SP/Laguna Coast – Ridge Park Entrance (map), Ridge Park Rd & E Coastal Peak, Newport Beach, CA, 92657, US
This hike will be at Crystal Cove State Park. We will be doing part of the Moro Canyon trails. This hike will be about 6.6 miles with approximately 1,000 ft. of elevation gain. We are beginning at the Ridge Park Entrance (see the map for exact details on where to go.)
This hike will take us from Bommer Ridge to Slow and Easy/West Loop Trail. Then we will be on Moro Canyon until W. Cut Across trail, where we will go right. This will take us to No Name Trail, which turns into Pacific Ridge Trail. This will take us back to the beginning.
This will be a moderate+ level of difficulty for the hike.
Parking is free on the street coming through this entrance.
Here is a link to the park map:
http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=45106
(Our starting point is shown on this map marked Ridge Park Public Access with a 9 next to it.)
Here is another map just for Crystal Cove:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/644/files/ccsp_map_trail_distance_box.pdf
Dogs are not allowed on this hike.

Danielson Monument - potluck hike (start 3:00PM)
2025-05-04 16:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver) | 4128 Potrero Rd, 4128 Potrero Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, US
6.5 miles, 1300′ gain, intermediate
This hike is longer and harder than our regular hikes.
We start at 3:00PM to make the most of the sunlight time.
Beautiful spring is here!
Let’s enjoy hiking to the Danielson Monument in the Boney Mountain Wilderness, potluck, and “Peace, Love and Joy”!
Please bring food and drinks to share.
We’ll have our typical snack-share social event at the top for 60-90 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share. If your item requires plates or utensils (ex: rice, macaroni salad, etc.), please bring them. You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any.
You will see several plants of note:
Tree Tobacco
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. It 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. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke.
Elderberry
The 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.
Most 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.
Hike Distance: 6.5 miles
Gain: 1300′
Difficulty: Intermediate
Shape: Out and back.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Double track, single track.
Duration: 5 hours, 3 for just the hike part.
Dogs: Not allowed in the state park.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along the street.
Meet at: Wendy Trail Head
4128 Potrero Rd
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd.
What to bring:
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Sycamore Canyon Hike from the Ocean
2025-05-06 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Point Magu State Park, Pacific Coast Highway 9000, Malibu, CA, 90265, United States
HIKE DETAILS:
This hike will go from the beach up to the picnic table on the fire road, approximately 5.5 miles. Most of the hike is exposed but hopefully we will have May Gray and it will be cloudy. No dogs.
We will meet in the Day Use parking lot at Sycamore Canyon Campground. We will start off along the main Sycamore Canyon road and turn up to the fire road where we will climb up to the picnic table. We will then follow the fire road back down to the parking lot, so out and back.
Directions:
We will be meeting at the Sycamore Canyon Campground and day use parking area on Pacific Coast hwy. This trailhead and parking area is about a mile south from the La Jolla Canyon Parking area where we go to hike the Ray Miller Trail and just across from the campground.
Parking is available in the campground for $12 (or free with a State Parking Permit). There may not be free parking on PCH.
There are also restrooms at the day parking lot.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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 trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
