Hiking with Dean

Oak Spring and Yerba Buena Ridge Loop
2022-01-29 08:30 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Oak Spring Trail (Gold Creek Trailhead), 9998-9954 Gold Creek Rd, Sylmar, CA, 91342, US
This is a lightly traveled loop trail in seldom seen Angeles Forest back country. Due to the fact that there is no shade on this hike it is best conducted in the winter or early spring when temps are cool and everything is green from rain. The reward for this hike are the incredible vistas from the Yerba Buena Ridge in 360 degrees.
COVID protocol: vaccinated hikers only
Not for beginners
Important: You will need to drive over a concrete causeway over Gold Creek on Gold Creek Road to access trailhead parking. Normally, this means a couple of inches of water or less. So please be prepared to drive this water crossing (no water last year)
The Stats
Distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2600ft.
Rating: Moderate 7/10
Trail: Single track, fire road, some paved road.
Duration: roughly 5-6 hours
Bring hat water and lunch. This hike is 100% exposed.—————
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Valencia Hiking Crew 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 any Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup events, you are releasing the Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries 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.

Las Llajas The Ridge Rocky peak Hummingbird Bridle path Mount Sinai
2022-01-29 09:30 - 14:30 | Las Llajas Canyon Trail, 5715 Evening Sky Dr, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/las-llajas-canyon-and-ridge-loop
Hello Fellow Hikers,Okay the AllTrails attached is our starting point and we are doing the Ridge but we are going to continue on a different route from there. This will be a harder trail and not for beginners. The first 2 miles is 1800 elevation gain! It’s one of those hikes I’ll need to take quick breather breaks going up..lol we’re gonna connect several trails to make a loop. Starting from Las Llajas we will quickly turn off to the Ridge trail then on to Rocky Peak then down Hummingbird to the Bridle path then Mount Sinai from there a short hike on Chumash then down to our cars. This is a workout and a great way to see several trails without doing a point to point. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/las-llajas-canyon-and-ridge-loop
Trail loopMiles 11.5Rated hardElevation Gain 2700Dogs are allowed But must be conditioned for a harder longer hike and there are some very steep inclinesParking is street
Please check back on hike info as rain, heat advisory, strong winds or low attendance may cause the hike to be rescheduled
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring all essentials you’ll need for a hike
Liability Disclaimer:And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest. Remember this is your hike all responsibilities are of your own once you attend please be aware of your limits

🌵⭐️ 2022 YEARLY DUES 🌍🌸 ANYTHING HELPS 🌸🍷 THANX!!! 🌮🍺
2022-01-29 10:00 - 12:00 | Mt Kilimanjaro, 123 Mountain Street, Blah Blah, TZ
Due to the pandemic, we’ve been posting fewer hikes lately but we’re hoping to start posting ’em more often in the coming months…
Still gotta pay website costs and other associated expenses, so it would be appreciated if y’all could help with a small yearly donation…
😀 really appreciate it… every little bit helps 😀
😀 PayPal: HikingLA@Gmail.com😀 Venmo: @HikingLA
or just donate when you come on a hike
Thanx MUCHO!!! 😀

🍔🍕 VASQUEZ ROCKS 5 MILE HIKE - ROCK SCRAMBLE - 49'ER GRILL FOR FOOD 🍔🍕
2022-01-30 11:30 - 14:30 | Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, 10700 W. Escondido, Agua Dulce, CA, 91350, US
CLIMB ON VASQUEZ ROCKS!!! Highlighted in several MOVIES and TV commercials, to include Star Trek, Bill and Teds Excellent Adventure, the Flintstones and about a million more.
***LEAVE THE WEST SIDE BY 10:00AM to get there on time…
GOOGLE MAPS: https://goo.gl/maps/FLUzJfUZfD22
CLICK BELOW TO SEE WORST STAR TREK FIGHT EVER FILMED AT VASQUEZ ROCKS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1eFdUSnaQM
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HIKE will NOT require rock scrambling, but it’s just more fun if you do. Wear appropriate hiking boots if you wanna climb on the rocks. Distance is approx 5 MILES with only a slight elevation climb. approx 300 feet
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BELOW… VIDEO WE MADE AT VASQUEZ ROCKS A COUPLE YEARS AGO DURING A FLASH FLOOD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAl-0MbsGmI
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BELOW A 1 MINUTE PARODY OF THE MOVIE “127 HOURS” we filmed there a couple years ago…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aL3FW9fhIu8
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AFTERWARDS…. FOOD AND LIBATIONS AT THE 49’er in Acton
the 49’er GRILLE https://goo.gl/maps/QUTJ6rb2XJq
Their MENU:https://www.the49ersalooncompany.com/menus/
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BRING A SNACK!!! WE’LL MAKE A LUNCH-STOP HALF-WAY THROUGH…

Mash Site - Malibu Creek State Park Potluck Hike
2022-01-30 14:00 - 18:00 | 27000 Mulholland Hwy, 27000 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, US
Fit Beginner – 6 miles, 600′ gain
This is a social hike and an out-and-back event.
There is a potluck at the M.A.S.H. site before we turn around for the return. If your item requires paper plates, utensils, etc. please bring them.
Pot Luck guidelines: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772
We will meet at the Grasslands trail head off of Mulholland Hwy and take the Grasslands Trail with a gentle climb and connect to the High Road (~3/4 miles). We’ll take a right and follow the High Road another 3/4 miles then take a right at Crag Road up a short 1/3 mile climb (170′ gain). At the top of the hill, we’ll take a left turn down the short bypass trail to Century Lake.
From Century Lake, the trail is level all the way to the M.A.S.H. site. From the lake we’ll continue on Crag Road and at a 1/2 mile we’ll cross over Malibu Creek. The bridge over the creek is washed out, so we’ll have cross over some fallen branches and rocks just beyond the bridge (I’m not sure of the water level or conditions of the creek, so there is a chance you may get wet). Another 3/4 miles on Crag Road we’ll reach our destination and have our potluck.
HikeDistance: 6.0 milesGain: 600′Distribution: Well distributed.Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Fit Beginner.Shape: Out and Back.Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire road, double track, single track.Trail Variations: Mostly fire road. May have to cross a creek where the bridge has washed out, stepping on rocks and fallen branches.Duration: 4 hoursDogs: noRestrooms: noDrinking Fountains: noParking: Free along street.
What to bring:1 liter of water for every 3 miles.Hiking shoes/bootsFlashlight or headlamp.Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.Snacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted.
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. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)).
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Easy hike - SYCAMORE CANYON
2022-01-31 10:00 - 13:00 | Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa, 4121 Potrero Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.NEED HELP:go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
We’ll be doing an easy short hike to the waterfall off Sycamore Canyon. Don’t expect more than a trickle and relish anything greater than that.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: We’ll all meet at 10:00am in Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwahttps://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B009’10.7%22N+118%C2%B057’56.2%22W/@34.1529602,-118.9661824,243m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x876b96ede33aa5d!7e2!8m2!3d34.1529587!4d-118.9656074
DISTANCE: 3.2 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 525′
DURATION: 2+ hours
LEVEL: Beginner
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Mountain E-bike ride - SYCAMORE CANYON
2022-01-31 10:00 - 14:00 | Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa, 4121 Potrero Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.NEED HELP:go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
We’ll be riding on dirt and a paved road as we take on Sycamore Canyon from Newbury Park to PCH and back.This time during our ride, I’ll have no range anxiety now that I’ll be bringing along an extra battery pack and no hill anxiety now that I have my new 9 speed (11T to 50T) cassette.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: We’ll all meet at 10:00am in Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwahttps://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B009’10.7%22N+118%C2%B057’56.2%22W/@34.1529602,-118.9661824,243m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x876b96ede33aa5d!7e2!8m2!3d34.1529587!4d-118.9656074
DISTANCE: 18+ miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1000′
DURATION: 4 hours
LEVEL: Mountain biker able to keep up with slow e-bikers
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Happy Camp 2 - Intermediate
2022-02-01 18:00 - 21:30 | Happy Camp Rustic Canyon, 13650 Broadway Road, Moorpark, US
5.7 Miles, 1000′ gain, Intermediate.
The starting point is NOT at the golf course entrance. It is at a dirt lot that can hold at least 50 cars. There is some real incline on this hike and a lot less trails coated with silt compared to the easier Happy Camp hike.
Even though I have rated this “intermediate”, there are no steep sections. The 2nd quarter is an continuous fire road incline that can get exhausting.
We start with about 1.25 miles of relatively flat and slightly downhill double-tracker. Then we start up a fire road for 1.5 miles with a continuous incline of 700′. This section can be exhausting, so I’ve rated the hike on the easy end of the Intermediate spectrum.
A strong and motivated beginner can do this hike, but they will be challenged and slow during this segment. That’s OK, because this is not a conditioning hike, it is a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to regroup, and there is nothing wrong with taking many small stops along this section to catch your breath.
After having done two segments, we’ll reach a steel hitching post and clearing, where we’ll have a social event lasting about an hour. We’ll be rewarded with spectacular views in all directions. During the day, you can easily see the ocean and Channel Islands. Finally, we’ll head back the way we came.
Interesting Notes.These are plants you will likely see on this hike.
White Sage
It is very aromatic and is the plant burned in “smudging” to ward off evil spirits and perform other purification.
Along the second half of the outbound section, both sides of the trail have patches of White Sage.
Black Mustard
Flowers, leaves (mustard greens), and roots are edible. Can be used as a spice. Grind seeds and mix with water and vinegar to make prepared mustard.
Directions:
Happy Camp Rustic Canyon13650 Broadway Rd.Moorpark, CA 93021Coordinates of trailhead: 34.315212, -118.874620
From CA-118:West on CA-118, exit 19a Princeton Ave.Left on Princeton for 1.4 mile until dead end.Right on Spring Rd. for 1.3 miles.Right on CA-23N/Walnut Canyon Rd. for 0.9 miles.Becomes Happy Camp Rd. for 236′.Right on Broadway Rd. for 0.3 miles.Parking lot in Northeast corner of intersection.
From CA-23 and US-101:North on CA-23.CA-118 east for 0.6 miles.Exit 19a, Princeton Ave.Right on Princeton for 1.4 mile until dead end.Right on Spring Rd. for 1.3 miles.Right on CA-23N/Walnut Canyon Rd. for 0.9 miles.Becomes Happy Camp Rd. for 236′.Right on Broadway Rd. for 0.3 miles.Parking lot in Northeast corner of intersection.
The Hike:Distance: 5.7 miles, 3.75 hoursElevation Gain: 1000′Difficulty: Easy IntermediatePace: 2.0 mphDogs: NoRestrooms: Yes.Drinking Fountains: No.Parking: Free in the dirt lot at the trailhead
Trail: Double Track and Fire Road, with some sand.
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route.Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.Hike type: Social.
This description includes a picture of the route. Those that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share, should memorize the below route so they can safely return on their own.
Stops:The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share ( https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772 ) at the half way point.
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.
What to Bring:1-2 liters of water.Snacks and/or beverages to shareHiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.Flashlight or headlamp.Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Inspiring/Challenging/Steep Moonlight Hike: Caballero Lp Trl off Reseda(Tarzana)
2022-02-01 19:00 - 21:30 | 4047 Reseda Blvd, 4047 Reseda Blvd, Tarzana, CA, 91356, US
STATSDifficulty: 5/10, Moderate but steep uphillLength: 4 miles, 2 hours plus breaksElevation Gain & Loss: 1400’View: Cross-valley view and Ocean on clear nightsDetails: Steeper uphill, easier downhill
TRAILHEAD INFOPark on the street near the address.
Night-hiking in LA is amazing! Trails are practically empty, breeze is cool, & the beautiful city below you offers unlimited full-definition entertainment!
We take short rest stops as needed. At the peak/midpoint, we take a nice break to have beer/soda/snacks & look at beautiful scenery.
Please RSVP & arrive by 6:55 pm for a 7 pm start. Change your RSVP ASAP if you can’t make it to give others a chance to hike. Repeat “No Shows” will get last priority on future hikes.
COMMON-SENSE NOTES* COVID-19 guidelines apply: Masks, Social Distancing, Feeling Well* Please wear proper hiking boots* Consider long pants in case there is some brush along the way* Bring plenty of water to drink* Bring a headlamp to use after dark* Bring a Mask in case you get too close to anyone else* Fun, yummy snacks are always appreciated* Bring a Cheerful Attitude 🙂
We hike every Tuessday night & for variety we do other trails that are similar to this one (never boring).
We hope to see you!
Keith & Steven213-507-2221 / 213.986.SNOW
* * * * * * * * * *VHC INFO. AND DISCLAIMERS
Farzan Rule: We start the hike at the Posted hike time-SHARP!
PLEASE – Know your limits & abilities. Check weather conditions, dress accordingly & be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding & fun.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALERating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike & the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water/water crossings or bouldering/rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain (E.G.)3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. E.G.4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increases at times)5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increasing even more at times)6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. E.G. (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)10 – Use your imagination
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITYIMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports & other events we plan can be inherently dangerous & accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety & well-being. The VHC Meetup Group & its organizers are not trained leaders & 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 any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group & it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries 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 & experience.

SAN GABRIEL, MARKHAM AND MT. LOWE PEAKS
2022-02-02 07:30 - 11:30 | Eaton Saddle Trailhead, Mt Wilson Red Box Rd, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, 91206, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR PROFILE:https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
***Due to the recent surge with Covid-Omicron, only those who are fully vaccinated and boosted will be moved to the going list.Thanks for your understanding.***
This is a good time to re-vist some peaks in the San Gabriel mountains. The weather forecast for next week will be partly cloudy skies and sunny with a high of 71-degrees.
We will bag all three peaks and not necesarily in the order listed below.You must be comfortable with Class 2 rock scrambling especially when climbing up to Mt. Markham. Poles and gloves may be helpful on some sections leading up to the summit.
We will be moving at a comfortable pace and will not leave anyone behind. However, if you feel you cannot complete all three peaks then I can lead you back to the trailhead as long as you let me know your plans.
Mt. Markham 5742′Mt. Lowe 5603′San Gabriel Peak 6161′
Stats:Level- Strong Intermediate/NO BEGINNERS PLEASEDistance- 9 miles (approximate)Gain- 2800 feet (approximate)Terrain- rocky fire road & single track trailsRestrooms- not available at trailhead. Restrooms are at RedBox.Dogs- NOT ALLOWED ON THIS HIKEParking- dirt road at the trailheadA National Forest Pass is REQUIRED.
I would like to be back to the cars by 12:00 PM
EARLIER MEET TIME LOCATION: 7:00AMhttps://www.google.com/maps/place/941+Flanders+Rd,+La+Ca%C3%B1ada+Flintridge,+CA+91011/@34.2114574,-118.2018605,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x80c2e9fa3dc3a7a1:0xaafb98f1023ae9a3!8m2!3d34.211453!4d-118.1996718From here we will carpool to the trailhead.
EATON SADDLE TRAILHEAD DIRECTIONS: 7:30AMhttps://www.google.com/maps/place/Eaton+Saddle+Trailhead/@34.2393818,-118.0955521,648m/am=t/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x80c2e7edecba22af:0x4ebc9e7d4338d8d8!8m2!3d34.2393774!4d-118.0933634
WHAT TO BRING: A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.Snacks, at least 3 liters of water, Lug soles with good tread, gloves, poles if you like/have them.Hand sanitizer & mask (Please be respectful of others who choose to wear a mask when in close proximity to one another)
LUNCH OPTION:Those interested can join me for lunch at the La Canada-Flintridge Town Center. There is a variety of food places to eat. (Habit, Panera & Blaze Pizza)https://www.google.com/maps/place/990+Town+Center+Dr,+La+Ca%C3%B1ada+Flintridge,+CA+91011/@34.2048424,-118.202024,17z/data=!3m1!5s0x80c2e9fc288954a1:0x79962bab30c04ef6!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x80c2e9fc28e4164b:0x9f9115b9ea5a8d58!2sBlaze+Pizza!8m2!3d34.204838!4d-118.1998485!3m4!1s0x80c2e9fc28956f11:0x7598d16cf3b6ae96!8m2!3d34.2048937!4d-118.1998907
My cell: 562 331 3793
CDH POLICY: Any member with two NO SHOWS on CDH events since 2017 will lose their membership with CDH. Members will not be allowed on this and future events until they have updated their CDH profile by answering the new questions as well as having a recognizable face photo of themselves. This update cannot be done via an app, an iPhone or any other type of a hand-held phone. It must be done on a computer.FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN YOU BEING EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.

Limekiln Canyon Lollipop - Suitable for beginners
2022-02-03 18:00 - 21:30 | Limekiln Canyon Trail, 19569 Rinaldi Street, Porter Ranch, CA, US
4 miles, gain: 500′, beginner.
This is a beginner hike on the beautiful Limekiln trail. The hike starts at the trail head near the Tampa exit on I-118, just 3 miles east of the Topanga Canyon exit.
This hike is a slight lollipop (from the shape of the route). There are no extended inclines, however there are about 5 bumps in the trail with 25-40′ gains, about 35-65 steps each. This is something a beginner would be able to handle, but these bumps will get the blood pumping, as they are like climbing up to 4 flights of stairs. There is nothing wrong with pausing for a breather while tackling these bumps in the trail.
The trail varies between asphalt, gravel fire road, single tracker, tree covered, hilly, roadside, wooded, open air, and strolls through the park. We’ll enter Limekiln Canyon, where we’ll first encounter a heavily wooded park with large pine trees lining the trail and blocking out the sun. We’ll continue for about 2 miles. We’ll reach Sesnon Blvd., and then travel about 20 yards west and taking a different trail back into the Canyon.
After several hundred yards, we’ll return to the original trail for the return. Soon, we’ll take a slightly different route by making a right off the trail, but it still returns back to the original trail after a short distance.
Just before we complete the last 3/4 mile, we’ll turn right instead of left. After about 100 years, we’ll find a great spot with a giant fallen tree trunk to have a social event (snack and beverage share – https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
After about 30-60 minutes, we’ll continue the last 3/4 mile back to our cars. Those that don’t want to stick around are welcome to head back to their cars by any route they choose, but I’ll take a few splits to the right and cover some different trails, each that returns back to the original trail after several hundred yards.
There will be a couple creek crossings on the return, where one will use a few stepping stones to avoid getting wet. In general, it won’t matter if you choose incorrectly from this point because all the splits end up going the same way.
Interesting Notes:
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
California Buckwheat
When the white flowers turn a rusty brown, they can be crushed into a powder, mixed with water, and baked into bread. The black seeds in the flower heads are also edible. Don’t touch the white flowers if bees are around because they won’t like it and may attack. A cold tea made from the leaves has been used to treat stomachaches and headaches. A warm tea made from the roots has been used to treat colds. The stems are stiff and flexible, so they have been used by Indians as piercing utensils.
Laurel Sumac
Red stems and outline along leaves. The dried flower bunches look like small trees, and are used by model railroad builders as such, after being dyed green. Laurel sumac is sensitive to cold and does not tolerate freezing conditions. Orange growers in the early history of southern California used to pick places to plant their oranges based on where laurel sumac was growing because this indicated it would not get too cold for oranges if laurel sumac could grow there. For some, the sap will irritate their skin just like poison oak, causing blisters. Also called “Taco Plant”.
Directions:
Limekiln Canyon TrailPorter Ranch, CA 91326
From the 118
Exit Tampa Ave (3 miles east of the Topanga Canyon exit) and head north for 1000′.Left (west) on Rinaldi St. for 1000′.Trailhead on the right (north).Park on either side of the street.
From the 101 @ CA23
North CA-23 for 8.4 milesEast I-118 for 18 miles.Exit Tampa Ave (3 miles east of the Topanga Canyon exit) and head north for 1000′.Left (west) on Rinaldi St. for 1000′.Trailhead on the right (north).Park on either side of the street.
The Hike:
Distance: 4 milesElevation Gain: 500′Difficulty: EasyPace: 2.5 mphDogs: YesRestrooms: NoDrinking Fountains: NoParking: Free on either side of the street in front of the trail head.Trail: Varied. Good condition.
What to Bring:
Snacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).1 -2 liters of water.Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.Flashlight or headlamp.
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

WEST LION CANYON FALLS
2022-02-04 07:00 - 14:00 | Thousand Oaks Park & Ride, Corner of S. Rancho Rd and Halland Dr., Thousand Oaks, CA, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.NEED HELP:go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
This hopefully will be a good time to see West Lion Canyon Falls with the recent rain we’ve had. We’ll see these falls via the following trails: Lion Canyon Trail and the Lion Canyon to Rose valley Connector Trail
We’ll have to follow a use trail south from the camp. It soon reaches the creek, where 0.1 mile of moderate boulder scrambling (potentially difficult if water levels are high) brings us just below the waterfall.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Thousand Oaks Park and Ride at the Corner of S. Rancho Rd and Halland Dr., Thousand Oaks at 7:00 a.m.
MEETUP DIRECTIONS: It’s just south of the 101 Fwy and 23 Fwy interchange. Have a full tank of gas and be willing to drive if needed. Those that don’t drive can help pay for gas. We’ll need to fill the cars up half full at this point due to the car shuttle needed once we get to the trailhead.
SEE MAP ABOVE
ALTERNATE MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: For those that want to meet the group near the trailhead, drive up Hwy. 33 to Rose Valley Rd. We’ll meet at that intersection at 8:15 a.m.https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B032’03.1%22N+119%C2%B014’19.4%22W/@34.534183,-119.2408967,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x841948bcabb5dd23!7e2!8m2!3d34.5341831!4d-119.2387076?hl=en-US
DISTANCE: 6 miles
ELEVATION GAIN/LOSS: 750’/750′
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest Trekker
DURATION: I’d like to get back to the cars by 2:00 p.m. and stop off for a debriefing at an Ojai restaurant.
TERRAIN: Single track trails along with several stream crossings. Most likely we’ll be getting our shoes wet.
LEVEL: Strong Intermediate
MY CELL# IS 805-358-5972
NO DOGS ALLOWED

Cheeseboro Ridge and Cheeseboro Canyon Loop
2022-02-04 10:00 - 13:30 | Cheeseboro Canyon Trail, Cheeseboro Canyon Trail, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/cheeseboro-ridge-and-cheeseboro-canyon-loop/photos
Hello Fellow Hikers,This is a really popular area with hikers,mountain bikers and horses alike so best o hit this trail on a week day to keep it more to ourselves with less traffic. This area is popular because it offers open space with continuous mountain views. Trails are easy to follow and most surrounding area is green. Will be covering a lot of mileage but the elevation is gradual and you have several level off sections and straight aways. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/cheeseboro-ridge-and-cheeseboro-canyon-loop
Trail loopRated moderateMiles 9.6Elevation Gain 1233 ftDogs allowed
Please check back on hike info as rain, heat advisory, strong winds or low attendance may cause the hike to be rescheduled
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring all essentials you’ll need for a hike
Liability Disclaimer:And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest. Remember this is your hike all responsibilities are of your own once you attend please be aware of your limits

Palo Comado Lollipop - Easy Intermediate
2022-02-08 18:00 - 21:30 | Doubletree/Sunnycrest Trailhead, Oak Springs Drive & Doubletree Road, Oak Park, CA, 91377, US
4.6 miles, 900′ gain, easy-intermediate.
This route takes us through a beautiful canyon via a counter-clockwise lollipop. Most of the hike has a clear view of the sky, with a few parts that have tree cover. We’ll be stopping at the half-way point for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
We’ll start at the Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead (coordinates: 34.182480,-118.751785) and head east for 1/2 mile along the Doubletree Connector Trail. We’ll turn left and head north along the Palo Comado for about 1 mile. We’ll turn right (east) onto the Dead Cow Trail for 0.8 miles, where we’ll come to an overlook on the left.
There, we’ll stop for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772). Then we’ll continue down the Sheep Corral trail for about 700′, turning left back onto the Palo Comado trail. From there, we’ll head south 1.75 miles and turn right (west) onto the Doubletree Connector Trail and the final 1/2 mile back to the trailhead.
HikeDistance: 4.6 milesGain: 900′Distribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.Shape: Lollipop, counter-clockwise.Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire road and single track. Areas of sand, gravel, and rock, some of it rugged.Trail Variations:Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.Several steep sections of 300 steps, but no hands required.Duration: 3.5 hoursDogs: Yes.Restrooms: NoDrinking Fountains: No.Parking: Free along street.
What to bring:1 liter of water for every 3 miles.Hiking shoes/bootsFlashlight or headlamp.Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.Snack and Beverage Share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.
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. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)).
Stops:The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker.
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.
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
Black SageMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell.
A rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage.
Its flavor goes well with winter squashes, brown butter, poultry, venison, pears, cheese, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain, specifically for the feet and lower legs.
Yellow Star ThistleThorny. Also called yellow cockspur and golden star thistle. Generally considered a weed. Long-term ingestion by horses causes a neurological disorder known as chewing disease, a lethal lesion of the nigropallidal region of the brain. This disease is expressed as a twitching of the lips, tongue flicking, and involuntary chewing. Permanent brain damage is possible, and affected horses may starve to death. Used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers. In a laboratory study, aqueous extracts of fresh or dried flowers of yellow star thistle given orally showed significant antiulcerogenic activity in rats.
Directions (Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead):
From I-101:I-101, exit Kanan Rd.Kanan Rd. north for 2 miles.Right (east) on Sunnycrest Dr. for 0.6 miles.Continue on Doubletree Rd. for 0.l miles.Trailhead on the right, park along the street.
From CA-118, CA-23:I-118 west.I-23 south for 4.8 miles, exit Avenida de Los Arboles.Left (east) on Avenida del Los Arboles for 1.6 miles.Right (south) on N. Westlake Blvd for 1.5 miles.Left (east) on Kanan Rd. for 4.2 miles.Left (north-east) on Deerhill Rd. for 0.3 miles.Right at second cross street onto Doubletree Rd for 0.5 miles.Trailhead on the left, park along the street.
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.182480,-118.751785Address of a nearby house: 713 Quail View Court, Oak Park, CA 91377
Release of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Chivo Tar Pits lollipop - Easy Intermediate with beginner option
2022-02-10 18:00 - 21:30 | 5079 Westwood St, 5079 Westwood St, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
4.75 miles, 700′ gain, easy-intermediate.Option for 3 miles, 300′ gain, easy. 30 minute wait while group completes the loop back to this spot.
We start with a 1/4 mile walk from where we park along Cottonwood Dr, to the trail head. There we make a left and take a relatively flat section and hike for about 3/4 mile. We’ll come to the same tar pits as the Tapo Canyon tar pit hike, and then continue for another 300 feet to a fire road.
We’ll turn left and make a gradual climb for 1 mile, about 450′ of incline. At the top, we’ll go straight and head back down for 3/4 mile, stopping for a social event for 30-60 minutes when we arrive at the next junction. Please bring food and drink to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
Next we’ll turn back and head the way we came down a mostly flat section for about a mile until we arrive back at the trail head. Then another 1/4 mile walk along Cottonwood Drive back to our cars.
There is a map of the route posted with this event.
Directions:5079 Westwood St.Simi Valley, CA 93063Park on the street.
The Hike:Distance: 4.75 miles, option for 3 miles.Elevation Gain: 700′, option for 300′.Difficulty: Easy Intermediate (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781).Pace: 2.0 mphDogs: Yes.Restrooms: No.Drinking Fountains: NoParking: Free, along the neighborhood streets.Trail: Single Track, Double Track, and fire road.Purpose: Social
What to Bring:1-2 liters of water.Snacks and/or beverages to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.Flashlight or headlamp. The last 30 minutes may get dark.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Paramount Ranch walkabout
2022-02-11 08:00 - 10:00 | Paramount Ranch, 2903 Cornell Road, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
NEED HELP:
go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
This event will be for seasoned beginners on up. Since this area is small, I’m planning on hiking most of the trails there. We’ll start off on all the easy trails and work up to those that have some elevation gain. Those that might feel that they have had enough, can bail as the rest continue.
MEETUP TIME: No later than 8:00 a.m. (Boots on, ready to go)
LOCATION: Paramount Ranch on Cornell Rd.
DIRECTIONS: From the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills exit Kanan Rd. and head south on Kanan for less than a 1/4 mile. Turn left on Cornell and follow it to Paramount Ranch. If you see Mulholland Hwy. you went too far. Park in the Paramount parking lot next to the restrooms. SEE MAP ABOVE.
DISTANCE: Beginners can do 3 miles while the intermediate hikers go for 5+ miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 300′ for beginners
800′ for intermediate hikers
DURATION: 2 to 3 hours
PACE: moderate
LEVEL: experienced beginner on up
TERRAIN: Easy trails
My cell# 805-358-5972

Arroyo Conejo to Lynnmere Trail
2022-02-11 10:00 - 13:30 | Arroyo Conejo trailhead, 1654 N Ventu Park Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/arroyo-conejo-to-lynnmere-trail
Hello Fellow Hikers,Okay this trail has a lot of great reviews with many people saying it offers several different sights from mountains to creeks to shaded sections and wide open views. this trail is a loop with a short out and back. Will go through both Arroyo Conejo Open Space and Lynnmere Open Space. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/arroyo-conejo-to-lynnmere-trail
Trail loopMiles 9.1Elevation gain 1627Rated moderateDogs allowed
Please check back on hike info as rain, heat advisory, strong winds or low attendance may cause the hike to be rescheduled
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring all essentials you’ll need for a hike
Liability Disclaimer:And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest. Remember this is your hike all responsibilities are of your own once you attend please be aware of your limits

Camp Idle Hour Via Echo Mountain
2022-02-12 08:00 - 15:30 | At the corner of Pinecrest Dr. and Crescent Dr, At the corner of Pinecrest Dr & Crescent Dr, Altadena, CA, US
Waitlisted-limited -Prioritizing to those who I have hiked with this trail before then I will add if I know you can complete the hike at groups pace (my pace) safely.
The StatsDistance: 14Rating: 8/10Elevation Gain: 4000Trail: Mostly trail, with some fire road.
NOT FOR BEGINNERS AND NO SWEEPERIntermediate and advanced hikers only
Covid Vaccinated only due to shuttle
The Plan
We did this route for the frst time in early 2012 and it’s very worthy of spot in the permanent VHC rotation. I thought we can avoid the heat or warm weather if starting from Echo. The area near Idlehour reminds me of Big Santa Anita Canyon and we won’t have to worry about parking. We start at Echo Mountain trailhead on Lake Street, go up to Echo, then the Sam Merrill trail to Inspiration Point. From here we’ll pick up the Idlehour Trail which will eventually get us over to Henninger Flats. Bring Lunch!!
The Story
We start the day at the Cobb Estate which belonged to a wealthy lumber magnate, and had several gold mines and water wells on its property before the buildings were completely razed in 1959. One year later, the Marx Brothers bought the land and wanted to turn the area into a cemetery. Luckily, students from the aptly named John Muir High School bought the land and donated it to the Forest Service. Now the land houses several miles of equestrian trails, a small botanical garden, and the entrance to the Echo Mountain Trail.
The entire history of Echo Mountain is much to lengthy to publish here. The Echo Mountain House was finished in November of 1894. This grand Victorian 70-room hotel, perched 3,000 feet above the valley equaled the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego. It featured three wings, a north and an east which were the main quartering wings, and a center wing, the dining room, which reached back towards Castle Canyon and Echo Canyon, for which the mountain takes its name. Its stairway lead directly up from the Incline landing. As many of us know who have been to Echo and those who will make this trek for their first time will find out the foundation of this building is still in place as well as portions of the stairway seen above. Inspiration Point (4714′) is one of five officially-named Inspiration Points in Los Angeles County alone! Interestingly, this is one of those cases where the place in common usage differs from the place officially named by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names. Most people think of Inspiration Point as the ~4540′ saddle just east of the official Inspiration Point. The official Board, for good reasons, probably couldn’t bring themselves to name a saddle (http://tchester.org/sgm/site/definitions.html) as a point. Inspiration Point and the area have a rich history. The storied Pacific Electric Railway built an open-air shelter there in 1924-1925, with locating tubes showing the location of points of interest ranging from nearby sites to Catalina Island. The locating tubes are pieces of pipe that are oriented so that the view through the pipe is centered on the point of interest.

Lofty ridges, dramatic canyons and a trail camp cradled in the peaceful woods are a few of the many attractions visited by Idlehour Trail, which offers the hiker a grand tour of the Front Range of the San Gabriel Mountains. Naturalist John Muir called this country “rigidly inaccessible” after an 1877 exploration of Eaton Canyon. To get through the thorny chaparral, Muir was compelled to creep for miles on all fours. Later a trail was built, but it was no walk in the park. Early hikers stepped gingerly up and down Eaton Canyon via a narrow trail across the wall of the gorge high above the canyon bottom. These days, the well-engineered Mt. Wilson Toll Road offers hikers a safe way around the precipitous lower canyon, while the fine Idlehour Trail traverses the canyon’s more mellow upper reaches. Camp Idle Hour, a resort from 1915 to 1929, was a favorite of hikers who loved its location in the shade of oak, bay and spruce. These days Idlehour Trail Camp, about midpoint of this ramble, invites hikers to idle away an hour or so in the same tranquil setting that pleased an earlier generation.

The Henninger Flats area was originally purchased by Mr. Peter Stiel through the Federal Homestead Act. Mr. Stiel kept the ownership until he sold it to his friend William K. Henninger in August of 1893. Henninger had been squatting on the area since 1884. Upon his death in March of 1894, the property was willed to his daughters, Louisa Francisco and Susan Griljava. The property was then sold in February 1895, by auction, to Harry C. and Harriet M. Allen of Pasadena. Selling price was $2,600. In October 1895, the Allens sold the property for $5,000 to four men (W. Morgan, J. Vandevort, J. Holmes and W. Staats). These four men then sold the property in December 1895 to the Mt. Wilson Toll Road Company for $76,600. Although various people used or leased the area, the Mt. Wilson Toll Road Company stayed with the owners until it was purchased by Los Angeles County in 1928. In 1945, additional acreage was acquired from the Federal government by a land swap deal. This last deal brought the total acreage to approximately 232 acres as compared to the original 120 acres.
Directions: This is a car shuttle so we will meet at Pinecrest Drive and Crescent in Altadena, consolidate cars and then drive to the trailhead.
Take the 210 fwy towards Altadena/Pasadena area. Exit on North Altadena Drive and go north for about three miles and turn right on Crescent Drive until the street intersects with Pinecrest Drive. Park here – pay attention to the posted signs.
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PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
The Farzan Rule: Posted hike times are the time the hike starts or we leave from a posted shuttle location. I’m aware other Meetup groups offer a grace period for late arrivals; we don’t. It’s your responsibility to know the location of the meeting spot and be there and ready to participate at the posted time. If you have any concerns about the directions feel free to contact the organizer of the event, preferably in advance of the event and not at the start time. I’m of the opinion that it’s not fair to delay an event when the majority of attendees have arrived on-time. (so named after a conversation I had with a certain un-named member)
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITYIMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Valencia Hiking Crew 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 any Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup events, you are releasing the Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries 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.

Three Sisters Rock via PCT
2022-02-12 10:00 - 13:00 | 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd, 7601 Soledad Canyon Rd, Acton, CA, 93510, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/three-sisters-rock-via-the-pct
Hello Fellow Hikers,Unique Hike here! Yes this one is different! This huge rock formation looks more like your in New Mexico then Cali. And yes will be on the PCT with a PCT marker on the trail. We will take the trail all the way to the Three Sisters Rock formation. The trail is on the easier moderate side as reviews have stated. This is your more explore get in a good workout and see a different kind of trail from the normal trees and mountains. But it’s not in our Ventura backyard so there will be a carpool spot for those who would like to carpool or follow to the trailhead. the trail says 7.6 miles but with all the exploring we may end up with more. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/three-sisters-rock-via-the-pct
Trail out and backMiles 7.6Elevation Gain 1729 ft but gradualRated moderateDogs does not specify but dogs are in the photos on AllTrails so I would assume yes (Im bringing mine 😉
Please check back on hike info as rain, heat advisory, strong winds or low attendance may cause the hike to be rescheduled
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring all essentials you’ll need for a hike
Liability Disclaimer:And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest. Remember this is your hike all responsibilities are of your own once you attend please be aware of your limits

Sierra Madre to Orchard Camp
2022-02-13 07:30 - 10:30 | Mount Wilson Trail Park, 189 E Mira Monte Ave, Sierra Madre, CA, 91024, US
Start off your super day with a brisk hike to Orchard Camp.
The NumbersDistance: 7 miElevation gain: 2,000 ft.Rating 6/10, not for beginnersTrail: Hiking trailParking: Street. Two important items: 2. Curb your tires 1. Keep the noise down so the neighbors don’t create parking rules.
*******************************************************************
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain3 – 5 mile hike w/up to1000 ft. elevation gain4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Valencia Hiking Crew 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 any Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup events, you are releasing the Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries 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.

5th Annual ❤️ Day - Secret Trail/Topanga Lookout - Shuttle
2022-02-13 09:00 - 14:00 | Stunt Road Trailhead(1.0 Mile Marker), 1699 Stunt Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO. NEED HELP: go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
Now a Valentine’s Day tradition!

A slight variation on one of my favorite loops hikes – this time we will take a few cars and start our trek from the Secret Trail on Mulholland Highway. We will take this trail up to the motorway, but instead of following the fire road to Calabasas Peak, we will take as many side trails as possible.
Once we conquer the peak, we will head down to the junction, where we begin our ridge line scramble through beautiful rock formations up to the Topanga Lookout, from here the views are amazing, we will see from the Pacific to Santa Susana Mountains.

At the Topanga lookout we will rest, check out the current graffiti, enjoy the magnificent views and have some snacks and/or lunch, before we continue down the Stunt High Trail to where we met at the beginning. We will then need a few cars to drive the drivers back to their cars at the Secret Trail.

The Stats:
Distance: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000+ ft.
Duration: 5 hours
Difficultly: Intermediate
Trail: Single track and class 1,2 rock climbs
Parking Permit: Not required
Directions:
From 101 Fwy in Calabasas, exit Mulholland Drive/valley circle Blvd and go south on Mulholland Dr. for 0.5 miles, turn right on Valmar Street and go for 1.2 miles, turn right on Mulholland Hwy and go for 3.8 miles, then turn left on Stunt Road and go for 1.0 mile and park at the turnout on the right hand side.

Bike Ride from Carpinteria to Santa Barbara or Goleta with Lunch on the Pier
2022-02-13 09:00 - 16:00 | Carpinteria Amtrak Parking Lot, 475 Linden Avenue, Carpinteria, ca, 93013, US
YOUR CHOICE: Join us riding your bicycle from Carpinteria to Santa Barbara (22 miles round trip) OR Carpinteria to the University of California in Goleta (50 miles round trip.)
We will make a quick stop at an orchid farm on the way, and we’ll have lunch on the Santa Barbara Pier at 2:00 PM on the way back. Bring some snacks in case you get hungry and water to drink.
The 50 mile roundtrip bike ride from Carpinteria to the University of California in Goleta is on costal and inland roads through Hope Ranch with some hills on Cliff Drive descending to Santa Barbara.
_________________________________
QUALIFICATIONS:
This bicycle ride is for bike riders who are experienced riding on roads at a speed of 12 miles per hour. You must be able to keep up with our group.
You are required to wear a bicycle helmet to ride with our group.
Please read the rules for participating in this bicycle ride at https://www.meetup.com/cyclegroup/about/
_________________________________
BIKE ROUTES:
Carpinteria to Goleta
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34438992
Goleta to Carpinteria through Hope Ranch
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34439677
___________________________
FREE PARKING:
There is free parking at the Carpinteria Amtrak Station. There is a bathroom in the parking lot, electric car charger and a small store across the street.
___________________________
HEALTH CONCERNS:
We will be practicing social distancing and riding single file with separation between bicycles and other riders.
Be sure you are in good health. Please bring a mask if you choose to wear one for your own protection.
___________________________
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:
RSVP: If you can’t come please change your RSVP to “No” so we are not waiting for you.
BICYCLE: Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition with the tires properly inflated and the chain lubricated prior to the ride.
RULES OF THE ROAD: Safety is always our first concern. Use standard hand signals (http://www.meetup.com/cyclegroup/pages/5_Hand_Signals_for_Bicycle_Rides/) for group rides and obey all traffic stops and signals.
SPARE TIRE TUBES: You need to know how to change your own bicycle tire tubes if you get a flat tire. Please bring 2 spare tire tubes, levers, a small bicycle pump or CO2 cartridges to fill your tires with air once you change the bicycle tire tube. If you don’t have spare tire tubes you might have to call a taxi to take you and your bicycle back to your car!
MONEY: Please bring money for your lunch and taxi if necessary.
BIKE LOCK: Do not leave your bicycle unlocked at any time. Please bring your own bicycle lock.
HELMET: Please be advised that you are required to wear a bicycle helmet to ride with our group.
WATER and FOOD: Please bring water to drink so you don’t get dehydrated and food to eat, such as a protein bar, in case you get hungry.
WAIVER OF LIABILITY:
Please read this important disclaimer: This Meetup group, it’s organizers and members take no responsibility for any injuries nor accidents that may occur during events. By joining this ride you take full responsibility for your own safety. Please ensure that you are in good health before participating and understand that there is risk involved in your participation. This Meetup group does not certify the qualifications of any of it’s organizers or trip leaders, and they are not responsible for your safety. We are all just participants.
___________________________
Everybody must sign up for this event through Meetup individually. No guests allowed.
This bike ride is crossposted in other Meetup groups.
The main group coordinating this bike ride is Southern California Cycling Group at http://meetup.com/cyclegroup

Switzer Falls hike
2022-02-13 09:30 - 12:30 | View from Angeles’ Crest, Switzer Truck Trail, Tujunga, CA, 91042, US
Switzer Falls
Sunday February 13, 2022
TRAILHEAD TIME: 9:30 A.M
Eden Outdoor Adventures
VACCINATED & BOOSTED PARTICIPANTS ONLY
This activity is being organized by Eden Outdoor Adventures on Meetup.
You are more than welcome to join our Meetup group!
Sunday, February 13, 2022: Switzer Falls
Rating: Intermediate Trailhead Time: 9:30 a.m.
Description:
Come share in the beauty of this paradise so close to L.A. View remnants of the resort that once catered to celebrities. This hike is 4 1/2 miles round trip along the Arroyo Seco stream. We will pass by a number of natural pools and visit the falls on our hike back.
For those interested, after the hike we may go to lunch in Montrose.
What to bring:
Face Covering (optional), Two liters of water, snacks, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots or shoes with good traction, daypack, hiking sticks or hiking poles, long pants and long-sleeved shirt. Clothes should be loose fitting, and light-colors are preferable. Long sleeve recommended due to possible dense brush on some parts of the trail, and possible poison oak.
Parking Permit:
You are going to need an adventure pass to park which you can purchase at most REI’s, Big 5’s and the La Cañada Shell Station on the way at 4530 Angeles Crest Hwy, La Cañada, CA 91011
or you may also be able buy one on the way to the hike at the Ranger Station if it is open.
Footwear: Hiking boots or shoes with good traction. Absolutely no sandals or open toed shoes.
Due to the pandemic, there will be no carpooling until further notice unless you like to organize your own
Directions to the Trailhead:
Take highway 2 N to the trailhead which is past the junction of Angeles Crest & Angeles Forest (N3) highways and the Clear Creek Info station (on your right). A half a mile past the info station, turn right at the entrance to the Switzer Picnic area (mile marker 34.19). We will meet at the trailhead in the parking lot below across from the lower restroom close to the stream. If the lower lot is full, backtrack and park in one of the turn-off areas along the road and walk down to the lower parking lot.
TRAILHEAD GOOGLE MAP LINK: https://goo.gl/maps/Mqk3JHKJhWRVHb8L9
David’s Cell 818-905-0596 Please use discretion before calling.
TRAILHEAD TIME: 9:30 AM
EdenEOA@gmail.com
CONDITIONS TO PARTICIPATE!!!!
RELEASE OF LIABILITY: All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to participate in any The EOA events, you are releasing the Eden Outdoor Adventures and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries, death including loss of or damage to property.
Should you disagree with any of the above “Conditions to Participate” please do not participate.

E-bike ride around Ojai
2022-02-14 10:00 - 13:00 | The Mob Shop, 110 W Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA, 93023, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
NEED HELP:
go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
This will be a special e-bike ride in Ojai, but strong bikers are welcomed to join us as we test our e-bikes on steeper roads in Ojai than what we have done in the past with our regular bikes. If you don’t have an e-bike, you can rent one at the bike shop where we are meeting (The Mob Shop at
110 W Ojai Ave, Ojai).
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: We’ll all meet at 10:00am at:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B026’53.1%22N+119%C2%B014’49.9%22W/@34.448073,-119.2477292,216m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.4480731!4d-119.2471825
DISTANCE: 15+ miles at least
ELEVATION GAIN: As much as we can handle
LEVEL: Strong biker able to keep up with a slow moving e-bike
TERRAIN: Road ride
DEBRIEFING: We’ll have a late lunch in Ojai after the ride
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Hill Canyon - Hawk Lollipop - Easy Intermediate, beginner option
2022-02-15 18:00 - 21:30 | Hill Canyon Trailhead, 10241 Hill Canyon Road, Camarillo, CA, US
5.3 miles, 600′ gain, Easy-Intermediate
2 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.
The social event that will last 60 minutes, sharing snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
For those that want to keep it beginner, pass the junction and continue for 1/4 mile and no gain. That same picnic table will be on the right.
For the return, we continue the loop for 1/4 mile, then a relatively flat walk back for about a mile.
Hike Distance: 5.3 miles
Gain: 600′
Distribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the second quarter.
Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.
Shape: Lollipop.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road.
Trail Variations: The first mile is 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 (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. The route is posted as a photo with this description.
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.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Inspiring & Challenging Steep Moonlight Hike: Mission Peak Loop in Granada Hills
2022-02-15 19:00 - 21:30 | 18000 Sesnon Blvd, 18000 Sesnon Blvd, Granada Hills, CA, 91344, US
STATS
Difficulty: 4/10, Steep up & down, with some slippery spots
Length: 3 miles, 2 hours plus breaks
Elevation Gain & Loss: 1225’; Peak: 2700’
View: Amazing 360 View of Valleys and Mountains
Details: This hike has some STEEP moments but has a bench at the top to relax on. We made a new uphill trail, which is not on any trail map, so this is now a loop.
TRAILHEAD INFO
Plenty of parking on Sesnon.
Getting there might be tricky so please review the “How To Find Us” section & pull up the location on a map before driving there.
Night-hiking in LA is amazing! Trails are practically empty, breeze is cool, & the beautiful city below you offers unlimited full-definition entertainment!
We take short rest stops as needed. At the peak/midpoint, we take a nice break to have beer/soda/snacks & look at beautiful scenery.
Please RSVP & arrive by 6:55 pm for a 7 pm start. Change your RSVP ASAP if you can’t make it to give others a chance to hike. Repeat “No Shows” will get last priority on future hikes.
COMMON-SENSE NOTES
* COVID-19 guidelines apply: Social Distancing, Feeling Well, Bring a Mask in case it’s needed
* Please wear proper hiking boots
* Consider long pants in case there is some brush along the way
* Bring plenty of water to drink
* Bring a headlamp to use after dark
* Fun, yummy snacks are always appreciated
* Bring a Cheerful Attitude 🙂
We hike every Tuesday night & for variety we do other trails that are similar to this one (never boring).
We hope to see you!
Steven & Keith
213.986.SNOW
* * * * * * * * * *
VHC INFO. AND DISCLAIMERS
Farzan Rule: We start the hike at the Posted hike time-SHARP!
PLEASE – Know your limits & abilities. Check weather conditions, dress accordingly & be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding & fun.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike & the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water/water crossings or bouldering/rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain (E.G.)
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. E.G.
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. E.G. (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports & other events we plan can be inherently dangerous & accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety & well-being. The VHC Meetup Group & its organizers are not trained leaders & 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 any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group & it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries 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 & experience.

PARAMOUNT RANCH AND THE LADY'S SOUTHFACE "Car Shuttle"
2022-02-16 08:00 - 13:00 | Ladyface, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
NEED HELP:
go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
Join me on a short but challenging trek that is in our local Santa Monica Mountains. After a short car shuttle, we’ll start in Paramount Ranch taking on a new trail on a ridge which leads us to a challenging ascent of Ladyface Mountain, her south face. Once we gain the summit, we’ll descend her north eastern ridgeline back down to the cars. This hike is for those that like my short but challenging treks.
CAR SHUTTLE: Yes
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Ladyface’s north eastern trailhead on Kanan Rd. at 8:00 am:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B008’24.1%22N+118%C2%B045’39.7%22W/@34.1400341,-118.7615799,239m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x5befc45233995350!7e2!8m2!3d34.1400329!4d-118.7610143
DURATION: 4 hours give or take depending on the group.
TERRAIN: Easy trails to extremely steep rock scrambling
DISTANCE: 4 tough miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1200+ feet
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest hiker
LEVEL: Advanced Intermediate Hiker
RESTROOM: At start of hike in Paramount Ranch
MY CELL #: 805-358-5972

China Flats - Intermediate
2022-02-17 18:00 - 21:30 | China Flat Trailhead, 34.193558, -118.775137, Oak Park, ca, 91377, US
3 miles, 1000′ gain, Intermediate.
The entire first half is an incline. Nothing super steep, but beginners will find this climb exhausting. Fit beginners can still complete this hike, as we’ll be stopping at junctions to let everybody catch up. This is not a conditioning hike, it is a social hike.
There are several routes that can be taken, and the one I’ll be taking is posted as part of this description. At the top, we’ll stop for a snack and beverage share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) lasting 30-60 minutes.
For the return, part of the route will be the same, but the last segment will be different.
Hike
Distance: 3 miles
Gain: 1000′
Distribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.
Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Intermediate.
Shape: Upside down Y.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road and single track. Areas of sand, gravel, and rock, some of it rugged.
Trail Variations: The entire first half is an incline.
Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along street.
What to bring:
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snack and Beverage Share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772)
Route:
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.
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. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)).
Stops:
The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. 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.
Directions:
From I-101:
I-101, exit Lindero Canyon Rd.
Lindero Canyon Rd. north for 3 miles.
Trailhead on the left, park along the street between King James Ct. and Wembly Ave.
From CA-118, CA-23:
I-118 west.
I-23 south for 4.8 miles, exit Avenida de Los Arboles.
Left (east) on Avenida del Los Arboles for 1.6 miles.
Right (south) on N. Westlake Blvd for 1.5 miles.
Left (east) on Kanan Rd. for 2.6 miles.
left (north) on Lindero Canyon Rd. for almost 1 mile.
Trailhead on the left, park along the street between King James Ct. and Wembly Ave.
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.193632, -118.775241
Address of a nearby house: 5405 Wembly Ave, Oak Park, CA 91377
Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

SANTA SUSANA CAVE AND ROCK FIELD above Chatsworth Park North
2022-02-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park, Lilac Lane, Simi Valley, ca, 93062, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
NEED HELP:
go to: https://wp.me/P9MbG4-hC
Join me on a walkabout near The Santa Susana Pass above Chatsworth Park North if you like hiking easy trails in a very rocky environment. We first did this in 2016 when we climbed a rock or two searching for the cave up there while those less inclined to do so took a short break and watched. After this event, as an option, you’re welcomed to join Cristina (I’m sure she’ll come) and me for some BBQ at Rosies BBQ Kitchen.
OPTIONAL ROCK SCRAMBLING:
https://a248.e.akamai.net/secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/2/4/event_88560292.jpeg
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Dirt parking lot off Lilac Lane off of Santa Susana Pass Rd. at 9:00 am.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B015’49.7%22N+118%C2%B037’59.2%22W/@34.2637984,-118.6353007,924m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0xd4929ee8a4883a91!7e2!8m2!3d34.2637942!4d-118.6331119
EARLIER MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Those out my way can meet me in Woodland Hills at 8:30 a.m. and take off from there in a car pool. Meet at the corner of Leonora Dr. and Ponce Avenue. Ponce Ave. is the first street east of Fallbrook. We can park on Ponce which is not in front of any homes. Those that don’t drive can help pay for gas. It’s about a 30 minute drive to the trailhead, so $5/passenger should be collected by drivers.
DURATION: 3 hours give or take depending on the group.
TERRAIN: Single and double track trails
DISTANCE: 3 mile loop for those preferring the easier route and a little extra for the more adventurous rock scramblers in the group seeking to see the cave.
ELEVATION GAIN: 600′ +
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest hiker.
LEVEL: Experienced beginner. Climbing among rocks is optional
MY CELL# IS 805-358-5972
OPTIONAL – LUNCH: Rosies BBQ Kitchen at 10220 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Chatsworth,
https://www.rosiesbbqkitchen.com/

Elliot Peak via Western Plateau
2022-02-18 10:00 - 12:30 | Conejo Canyons Trail Head, 2010 Conejo Center Dr, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/elliott-peak-via-western-plateau-trail
Hello Fellow Hikers,This is another popular area which makes it nice to hit on a weekday. It’s popular as the scenery has a little of everything. Open views a peak and easy trails to follow. The incline is doable and gratual. Will be doing a small loop with most being out and back. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/elliott-peak-via-western-plateau-trail
Trail out and backMiles 6.1Elevation Gain 1030 ftRated moderateDogs allowed
Please check back on hike info as rain, heat advisory, strong winds or low attendance may cause the hike to be rescheduled
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring all essentials you’ll need for a hike
Liability Disclaimer:And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest. Remember this is your hike all responsibilities are of your own once you attend please be aware of your limits
