BIKE RIDE ON BIT OF BACKBONE
2021-10-28 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Backbone Trail – Encinal Canyon Trailhead, Encinal Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA, 90265, 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
Elyse, Howard and I will be taking our mountain ebikes on a portion of the Backbone Trail starting at Encinal Canyon Rd. and heading north. This portion of the Backbone trail is a much easier section to ride a mountain bike on.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Encinal Canyon Road at 9:00am.https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B005’07.8%22N+118%C2%B051’46.1%22W/@34.0850378,-118.8644132,458m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x80e824c26ad6cb57:0x238f88b4b27170c5!2s1240+S+Westlake+Blvd+STE+227,+Thousand+Oaks,+CA+91361!3b1!8m2!3d34.1492501!4d-118.8376728!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.0854968!4d-118.8628019
PLANNED ROUTE: https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B005’07.8%22N+118%C2%B051’46.1%22W/@34.0850378,-118.8644132,458m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x80e824c26ad6cb57:0x238f88b4b27170c5!2s1240+S+Westlake+Blvd+STE+227,+Thousand+Oaks,+CA+91361!3b1!8m2!3d34.1492501!4d-118.8376728!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.0854968!4d-118.8628019
DISTANCE: At least 10 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: About 1300′
TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Fire road and single track trail
DURATION: About 3 hours
LEVEL: Beginner on up

Caballero Canyon - Gizmo Peak Loop - Sol Y Luna for Lunch
2021-10-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Caballero Canyon, 4002 Reseda Bl, Tarzana, CA, 91357, US
Join us for a short but heart-pounding hike through the old stomping grounds of Edgar Rice Burroughs in Caballero Canyon. We’ll take the Dinosaur Egg Trail to Mulholland, head up for a snack on Gizmo Peak, and return to car via the Caballero Canyon Trail
Hike is about 4 miles with over 1,000′ total ascent and is rated DIFFICULT due to terrain. See the hike rating guide at https://www.hikingwithdean.com/hike-rating-guide/
Post hike lunch is down the street at
Sol Y Luna19601 Ventura BlvdTarzana California 91336818-343-8488
Meet at the Caballero Canyon trailhead on Reseda Bl. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Reseda Blvd and turn south. Drive for about two miles. There is parking on both sides of the street; the trailhead is on the left across the street from Braemar Country club
The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean 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 his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that 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 Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

Los Padres - Easy Intermediate
2021-10-28 18:00 - 21:30 | Los Padres Trailhead, 15 Los Padres Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, US
3.5 miles, 600′ gain, Easy Intermediate.
A fit beginner can handle this. Because there are a couple extended inclines, I’ve rated this at the easy end of the intermediate spectrum. That’s OK, because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. We’ll stop at various points to let people catch up.
We’ll start by entering the Los Padres trail, through a spooky oak covered section, then move through until we come to a dead end. We’ll turn right, and continue climbing up. We’ll come to another junction, where we’ll turn right onto the Los Robles trail.
After 500 feet, we’ll come to a split off to the right. We’ll take this split and continue along the Vista Loop until we come to a bench. Then we’ll start heading down, and when we come to the “Giants Picnic Table”, which I call that because its parts are super thick.
We’ll stop for a social event and share snacks and drinks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 30-60 minutes, before continuing down and around for our return.
If you don’t wish to stay for the entire social event, please study the map posted as a photo with this description so you are able to navigate the remainder of this trail without the host
Hike Distance: 3.5 milesGain: 600′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: Loop.Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire Road, Single-Track, and Double-Track.Trail Variations:Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.Several steep sections of 300 steps, but no hands required.Duration: 3.0 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.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 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.
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
These are a couple plants you are likely to see on this hike:
Yucca
White flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo or soap. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA.
Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. To eat root, remove skin and core, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. Adam says they taste like radishes. The fruit is also edible, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water, or, lightly pound leaves with rock or club, or, scrape off skin. Roll between hands, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage.
Wild Cucumber
Toxic. Boil fruit in water to make spikes easy to remove. Inside is a natural luffa. Tubars (thickened part of a stem, usually underground, like the potato) can be crushed and thrown into water to immobilize fish.
Almost the entire plant is poisonous. Although wild cucumbers are related to the familiar, domestic vegetable, the prickly “cucumbers” consist not of fleshy fruit, but of two seed chambers containing lacy netting.
Directions
Los Padres Trailhead15 Los Padres DriveThousand Oaks, CA, 91361
From I-101:West of CA-23, I-101, exit S. Moorpark Rd.South on Moorpark Rd. north for 1000 ft.Left on Los Padres Dr.After 200 ft, trailhead on the right.Park on the street.
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Mt. Wilson from Sierra Madre (Eats at the Cosmic Cafe on the Summit!)
2021-10-30 07:00 - 16:00 | Mt. Wilson Trail, 165 E. Mira Monte Ave., Sierra Madre, CA, 91024, US
The Stats
Distance: 14 miles Up and back Elevation Gain/Loss: 4800 ft.
Rating: Moderate to Strenuous 8/10
Trail: Single track, some fire road at the end. Upper 2/3 of the trail is shaded.
Duration: roughly 8 or 9 hours
We will stop for lunch at the Cosmic Cafe Pavilion (outdoor seating only) at the summit. Eat theirs or bring your own!
http://www.mtwilson.edu/cafe.php
Trail Description
The Mt. Wilson Trail is a former Gabrielino Indian trail that snaked through breath-taking Little Santa Anita Canyon to the top of Mt. Wilson. White settlers in the area used the trail in the mid to late 19th century for access to the harvesting of pine and spruce higher on the slope of the canyon. Those were the days when California grizzlies were common in the San Gabriels.
This trail is the site of an annual 8.6 mile race from the downtown plaza of Sierra Madre to Orchard Camp and back. This race was first run in 1908 all the way to Mt. Wilson. Its modern incarnation, begun in 1967, is of course much shorter.
Apart from a route from Chantry Flat through Big Santa Anita Canyon , the Mt. Wilson Trail is the most popular route to the top of Mt. Wilson.
The trailhead is at 970 feet elevation.
The Mt. Wilson Trail ascends the western slope of Little Santa Anita Canyon. Be advised that this trail is one of the steeper ones in the San Gabriel mountains. About ½ mile from the start, you will come to a noticeable point where the trail crosses a ridge. The ridge on your right side runs down to the creek.
At 1.2 miles, you will reach First Water Junction, where you go left up the trail.
At about 2.75 miles from the start, you will reach Decker Springs where you will quickly drop into the creek and just as quickly ascend. From here, it is about 1/3 of a mile to Orchard Camp, a nice shady rest spot if you’re so inclined.
From Orchard, it is 1.9 miles to Manzanita Ridge where you will connect with the Winter Creek Trail coming from Chantry Flat. Go left (northwest) and continue to a major junction where the trail meets the Mt. Wilson Toll Road coming up from Altadena through Eaton Canyon. Here, the southeast ridge of Mt. Harvard meets the road and Mt. Harvard is to your left.
At the trail/toll road junction, turn right and proceed up the toll road. When you come to a structure (known as Martin’s Cabin) on the left side of the road, look immediately to your right and you will encounter the resumption of the Mt. Wilson Trail. This point is about a mile distance from the Manzanita Ridge. Proceed up the trail, now single track again, .75 miles to the parking lot summit of Mt. Wilson.
No permits are needed for hiking this trail to Mt. Wilson. Neither is an Adventure Pass required to park at the trailhead because it is not located within the Angeles National Forest.
DirectionsThe Mt. Wilson Trail trailhead is located within the city limits of Sierra Madre. From the 210 Freeway, exit Baldwin Ave. and go north. When you come to a traffic light where you have to go either right or left, go left to the next light and that is Baldwin Ave. Take a right and continue up Baldwin Ave. through the downtown area of Sierra Madre. Approximately ¾’s of a mile from the downtown plaza, take a right on Mira Monte. Go down about ½ mile and you will come to a small park on your left. Park anywhere in this area long Mira Monte. (Note: it seems that Sierra Madre police are serious about curbing your vehicle’s wheels). To get to the trail, walk up the paved road that heads north off of Mira Monte next to the park. About ¼ of a mile up the paved road, you will come to the signed start of the trail.
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. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS!

EXPLORATORY CANYON TREK INTO THE RAZORBACKS OF THE LOS PADRES MOUNTAINS
2021-10-30 08:00 - 15:00 | Flying J Travel Center, 42810 Frazier Mountain Rd, Lebec, CA, 93243, 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
Have you looked at our past events into the RAZORBACKS of the Los Padres National Forest and wished you were able to enjoy this area but missed out because they’ve mostly been scheduled on a weekday. Well, here’s a weekend posting which will allow you to participate in this area below pinyon pine covered ridges as we use an easy canyon to access them. Of all the treks in the Razorbacks, this was the most rewarding. This trek will be geared for a select group of intermediate hikers who love exploring that I have hiked with before. We’ll all be heading deep into a Razorback Bowl to enjoy what nature has carved out there. We’ll further explore a canyon we did last time there which can be seen in the upper right quarter of the posted picture. This ain’t Utah, but it’s as close as you’re going to get to it in California.
BECAUSE THIS IS A DELICATE AREA, I WANT TO KEEP THE GROUP SMALLIf you don’t get to go this time, I will be doing several other trips up there.
Check out the photos posted on our last trip there:https://www.meetup.com/calabasasdayhikers/photos/31759253/499162034/#499162034
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME:The Flying J Travel Center in Lebec at 8:00 am:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B049’00.4%22N+118%C2%B053’10.2%22W/@34.8167674,-118.8883557,918m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m17!1m10!4m9!1m3!2m2!1d-119.1365275!2d34.7489344!1m3!2m2!1d-119.1584843!2d34.7287962!3e0!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.8167631!4d-118.8861666From here we’ll all caravan to the canyon where we will start the hike.
EARLIER MEETUP LOCATION: Those out my way can meet me in Woodland Hills at 6:30 a.m. and take off from there in a car pool. Meet at the corner of Leonora Dr. and Ponce Avenue. We can park on Ponce which is not in front of any homes. We can load the cars up here, since there isn’t a car shuttle involved on this event.https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B010’02.5%22N+118%C2%B037’15.8%22W/@34.1673552,-118.6221483,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1673532!4d-118.6210539
TERRAIN: No, this isn’t Utah, but it sure seems like it. We’re very fortunate to have a location like this relatively close enough to visit as a day trip.
DISTANCE: Mostly easy sand canyon trekking before more challenging sections over a 5+ mile total in and out trek.
ELEVATION GAIN/LOSS: 1000’/1000′
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest Trekker
DURATION: I’d like to get back to the cars no later than 3:00 p.m.
LEVEL: Intermediate
MY CELL# IS 805-358-5972
POST HIKE DEBRIEFING: In Frazier Park at the Falcon Nest Restaurant.
NO DOGS ALLOWED

12th Annual Chatsworth Halloween Hike - Day Version
2021-10-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Deerlake Ranch, 21600 Poema Pl, Chatsworth, CA, 91311, United States
Details
We’ve been doing this one in Chatsworth since 2009, and is one of our most popular hikes. It’s the scariest hike this side of Transylvania! Check out the scary night version here
This will be a potluck/social event so bring some booze, edibles, etc to share

…..A group of innocent hikers, unaware of what waits beyond the next switchback…..

BOO!

Chatsworth E-Riders Sprucing up Boot Hill in 2014. Its a ghoulish job but someone has to do it.

You’ll lose your head on this hike

R.I.P. Jennifer North
2
Cocktail time at the old Twin Lakes Clubhouse
Bring some snacks and adult beverage to share. Please bring your own plates, cup, utensils, etc

Costumes are optional: https://amzn.to/2n5iZyX

Video from 2014

There will be some creeking but I don’t expect much water. Be aware of poison oak
HIKE IS ABOUT 5 MILES WITH ABOUT 1000 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED MEDIUM DUE. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
Directions:
Our parking and meetup spot is on a new-homes construction site. The streets are paved and the lots are marked, but there are no homes built yet. Its easy to get to, however, some of the streets are so new, they are not on some maps (or GPS) yet, so pay attention to these directions!
21600 Poema Pl is an address 1/4 mile east the parking area. The Meetup map works on Android (Google maps) and takes you to parking area via Canoga Ave.
If you are using iPhone or car GPS, you may need the following directions, or type in the coordinates 34.279440,-118.600440
🚗From Canoga Ave – go north on Canoga Ave past the 118. Bear right and enter the Deerlake Ranch development; head uphill and make a left on Poema Pl. Go past the 21600 address, cross the bridge (that will be the 2nd bridge you cross), then turn right into the construction site for Crestley/Landsea Homes. Park in cul de sac to the right
🚙From Topanga Cyn Blvd – go north on Topanga past the 118. Turn right on Poema Pl, but don’t go all the way to 21600. Before the bridge turn left into Crestley/Landsea Homes construction site. Park in cul de sac on right.

Rocky Peak to Tapo Canyon Preserve
2021-10-30 09:00 - 15:00 | 3781 Tapo Canyon Rd, 3781 Tapo Canyon Rd, Simi Valley, CA, 93065, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail-to-rocky-peak-trail
Hello fellow hikers,I have been talking about this one for awhile so here we go…this will be a point to point hike I have attached the AllTrails link as this will be our meeting spot and we will be doing this hike..but.. we are gonna carpool to Rocky Peak and start it from the reverse direction so will end up at Tapo Canyon. I have done this hike the full length and it is AWESOME it has everything (except rock scrambling or off trail) you will get amazing views with your stretches of climbs up to your stretches of level off sections. All the trails separate would be rated moderate but put together you have a harder rated trail. Anyone is welcome to do any part of the sections if you want to turn back but please note we are continuing on. You can either bring a friend to drive separately or/and we can all take several cars (depending upon how many attend) out of respect we will wear mask in the car but not required on the trail. This will be a good heart up and pumping workout but not a killer more of a great feeling you did it… 🙂 I attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail-to-rocky-peak-trail
Trail point to pointMiles 14.7Elevation Gain 3021 ftRated hardDogs allowed BUT must be conditioned for a longer harder hike
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 (a lot of water on this one)
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 guess

Hike with Beach Party and Fire
2021-10-30 14:00 - 20:00 | Point Mugu State Park/ Sycamore Cove Beach, 9000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA, 90265, US
Note: GPS in the past has taken people to the incorrect location. Please read the written directions to verify.
2.7 miles, 650′ gain.
A hike, then a potluck party on the beach with a fire. Come for the hike, the beach party, or both!
Please post in the comments if you will bring a fire wood bundle as your pot luck item.
Firewood (so far): Jim
This hike is on the easy end of the intermediate spectrum (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781), based on distance and elevation. Beginners are welcome, but if it gets too hard, they can always turn around and go back the way we came. Nearly all of the elevation gain is in the first half.
This is not a conditioning hike. It is a social hike. The event host will be moving slowly and stopping at various points to let people catch up. Those that wish to move ahead at a faster pace, are welcome to do so if they know the route, but are on their own regarding navigation.
The Hike. 2 – 3:30p.We meet at the Sycamore Canyon Trail head inside of Sycamore Canyon Campground at Point Magu State Park. This is a counter-clockwise loop hike because of the shape of the route.
We’ll head up the trail for about a half mile, where there will not be much elevation gain. We’ll make a left onto the Overlook Trail. We’ll then start our ascent, climbing 400′ over the next mile, where we’ll come to a junction. We’ll turn left and instead of following the scenic trail, we’ll go along the ridge for about a half a mile. This segment will be about 200′ of loss and 100′ of gain.
Then follow our tracks back to the scenic trail, turn right, and follow it down for about 3/4 mile, again reaching Big Sycamore Canyon Trail, and turning right back to our starting point.
The Beach Party. 4:00 – 8:00p.We’ll go back to our cars and gather up our things for the beach party. From the trail head, it’s about 1/4 mile to the camp ground parking lot, then another 1/4 mile to the beach party area across the road at Sycamore Cove Beach. There are picnic tables and fire pits, but we must supply our own wood to burn.
The fire pits on the beach are first come, first serve. We have members that have volunteered to arrive early in the morning to secure a fire pit.
Please bring something warm to put on. It can get cool and windy near the beach, especially as the sun drops. A chair and blanket recommended.
Sunset: 6:52p.
Prior beach parties and photos:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/events/247433528/https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/events/250077800/https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/events/263940005/
Hike
Distance: 2.7 milesGain: 650Distribution: All the incline is in the first half.Difficulty: Beginner end of intermediate spectrum.Shape: Counter-Clockwise upside-down lollipopPace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire road, double track, and single track.Duration: 1.5 hours (hike), 4 hours (beach party)Dogs: No.Restrooms: YesDrinking Fountains: Yes.
Parking: Paved in the campground lot, $14, gates close at 10p. Gravel beach lot, $9 (you need your license plate #, pay “Iron Ranger” machine upon entry). Prices may have gone up since I was last there. If the lots are full, there is plenty of parking along the west end of PCH, but you may have to walk 1/4 mile or so.
Parking space is limited, so please car-pool and arrive early in case you have parking issues. The lot along the beach closes at sunset and rangers announce this to beach goers, giving plenty of time to move your cars. Some may find free parking along the street when it closes, else what you paid for the beach lot also covers the campground lot parking cost, across the street.
What to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.Food and drink to share for the beach pot luck.
Hosting
Route: A pic is posted as part of this description.Navigation: Host memory and 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.
Group separation: Hikers moving significantly ahead or that don’t wait at designated stopping points are on their own regarding route and navigation.
Directions:
Sycamore Canyon TrailheadMalibu, CA 90265Coordinates of trailhead: 34.074747, -119.014081Inside Sycamore Canyon Campground, across from Pt. Magu State Park
From CA-118:CA-118 West.CA-23 South for 7.4 miles.US-101 North for 10.8 miles.Exit 53B Lewis Rd./CA-34.Right (east) onto E. Daily Dr. for 0.1 miles.Right (south) onto N. Lewis Rd. for 4.5 miles.Becomes Hueneme Rd., continue for 0.9 miles.Left on Las Posas Rd. for 3.1 miles.Left on CA-1 for 5.9 miles.Left on Sycamore Canyon Rd. for 0.3 miles.Park in paved lot (pay).Campground gates close at 10p.
From US-101:Exit 55, Las Posas Rd.Las Posas Rd. south for 7.5 miles.Left on CA-1 for 5.9 miles.Left on Sycamore Canyon Rd. for 0.3 miles.Park in paved lot (pay).Campground gates close at 10p.
Official Info (http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=630)Rules and Regs (https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1323)
Release of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Gabrielino Trail ~ Sunday Stroll to Carmen's Waterfall
2021-10-31 08:30 - 14:00 | Gould Mesa trailhead, 5830 CA-2, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, 91011, US
We hiked the Gabrielino Trail a few years ago when Carmen noticed a waterfall just off trail. We went in search of the base of the falls last year and were not disappointed. It was quite a pleasant spot to take our lunch break. There should be even more water flowing after the recent rain.
This is a beautiful canyon and the fall colors should be putting on a show right about now. Hike will be at a moderate pace – not in any hurry and want to enjoy the scenery. Bring warm layers. The shaded canyon will be cool.*Note – Sunday is Halloween so double-check your plans before signing up.
STATS
Distance: 10-11 miles
Rating: 5/10
Elevation gain: >1500 feet
The Trail: Canyon trail, out and back, uneven footing, possible bushwhacking
Parking Pass: Not Required
The Plan:
We will meet where Gould Mesa road meets the Angeles Crest Highway. The plan is to hike up the canyon five to six miles, take an early lunch break at the waterfall, then head back the way we came. The canyon is nicely shaded with big beautiful trees and some rock hopping across the Arroyo Seco. The last mile back to cars climbs 500 feet on a paved road.
Large swaths of the trail were destroyed by the 2009 Station Fire and subsequent El Niño storms. Sections that survived had suffered years of erosion and lack of use or maintenance. It was virtually impassable due to hundreds of downed trees, rock slides, heavy sloughing and failed support structures. In the years shortly after the fire, a few people who ignored the closure order ended up lost and needing rescue.
Directions:
From the 210 Freeway take exit 20, Angeles Crest Hwy (CA-2) towards the mountains. In about 2 miles and shortly past Bay Tree Rd (on the left) you will see parking on the right. Free parking is here.
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The Fine Print
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)
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
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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 to 1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 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.
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🦅🦅 BUZZARDS ROOST - INTERMEDIATE 5.5 MILE HIKE - DINNER AT Malibu-CAFE 🦅🦅
2021-10-31 11:00 - 15:00 | Buzzards Roost Trail, 418 Encinal Canyon Road, Malibu, ca, 90265, US
🦅 BUZZARDS ROOST 🦅
-5.5 mile hike
-1,400 ft incline, a bit steep in places
-11:AM
– OCEAN VIEW at the TOP
-M Café / Malibu Cafe for food and fun afterwards
🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼
🔴 car pool if possible… There is limited parking!!! 🔴
🅿️ Trailhead and Parking
https://goo.gl/maps/QpRGXBF6SswhtcsH6
🅿️ more parking
https://goo.gl/maps/yJ3dhVnajxT6sBkG8
🅿️ even more parking
https://goo.gl/maps/pYmK3SKSpghAz4As9
🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Malibu Café / M Café
https://goo.gl/maps/TP8iByKRrRdCaSzN9
**bring blanket for picnic style dinner on lawn
🦅🍔🦅🍔🦅🍔🦅

THE HAUNTED DEVIL'S GATE and COLORADO STREET BRIDGE via the ARROYO SECO TRAIL
2021-10-31 16:00 - 20:00 | Arroyo Terrace, Arroyo Terrace, Pasadena, CA, 91103, US
Once again on Halloween we’ll follow the Lower Arroyo Seco Canyon via the Arroyo Seco Trail and visit a couple of haunted landmarks (The Colorado Street Bridge and The Devil’s Gate Reservoir). So, as an option, get into the Halloween spirit by wearing your favorite costume for photo ops. I’ll put on a Warlock outfit at these two sites. Every Warlock needs his Witches and Sirens, so I hope to conjure up a brew of them.Along the way, we’ll be visiting two landmarks which are said to be haunted. It wouldn’t be good for CDH’s reputation to lose a member or two along the way, so please stay together since, against better judgement, I am visiting the two ghostly sites in the dark.https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/arroyo-seco-halloeen-hike-46c67be
COLORADO STREET BRIDGE – BUILT 1912: Along with over 100 suicides, of course, came the ghosts. Several spirits haunt the bridge, including a man with wire rimmed glasses and a vanishing woman in a long flowing robe. She is often seen standing atop one of the parapets, vanishing as she throws herself off. Even below the bridge, ghosts are said to walk the river bed. Strange sounds and cries echo throughout the dark nights. Misty forms have been reported and animals act strange in the area. Homeless camping under the bridge have regularly reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing mysterious noises. A haunt wandering under the bridge whispers “her fault” to anyone he runs across, although no one knows who he means.http://www.weirdca.com/location.php?location=57
DEVIL’S GATE – BUILT 1920Some people believe the rituals Parsons led in the area opened a portal to Hell and made the area a magnet for all kinds of dark activity.https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/southern-california/devils-gate-ca/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RgUz30AjIc
TRAILHEAD MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: We’ll all meet on Arroyo Terrace at 4:00 p.m.https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B008’58.3%22N+118%C2%B009’52.3%22W/@34.1495239,-118.166468,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x0:0x0!2zMzTCsDA4JzI1LjAiTiAxMTjCsDEwJzAyLjMiVw!3b1!8m2!3d34.140285!4d-118.1673!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1495201!4d-118.1645378
RESTROOM: Yes, at the Rose Bowl shortly after the hike begins.
LEVEL: Intermediate
DISTANCE: 7.5+ miles
GAIN/LOSS: 600’/600′
TERRAIN: Mostly single track trail. There are a couple of areas that offer a bit of a challenge, but intermediate hikers should not have a problem with them.
PACE: Overall average 2 mph
DURATION: Hike 4 hours
NO DOGS ALLOWED:
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

🎃💀12th Annual Chatsworth Halloween Hike ☠ Night Version 👻
2021-10-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Twin Lakes Plateau – Near this address, 21600 Poema Pl, Chatsworth, 91311
We’ve been doing this one in Chatsworth/Twin Lakes since 2009. It’s the scariest hike this side of Transylvania!
Due to ongoing development in the area our exact path is unknown at this time, but I estimate it to be about 3 miles with 700′ elevation gain. I will have more accurate figures after pre-scouting the area.
The decorations are a little worn and I don’t know if the solar lights are still working, but it will be a fun hike. There is a nice spot where we can share some drinks and small bites — so bring the “good stuff”
And remember NO WHITE LIGHTS – red or green only. There is still time to order one of these headlamps – one uses batteries, the other is rechargeable. Both are red/green/white.
1
Costumes are optional: https://amzn.to/2n5iZyX
Here are some photos from last year:
https://hwdmedia.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/03115251/Halloween.mp4
HIKE IS ABOUT 5 MILES WITH ABOUT 1000 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED MEDIUM DUE. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
DIRECTIONS
Our parking and meetup spot is on a new-homes construction site. The streets are paved and the lots are marked, but there are no homes built yet. Its easy to get to, however, some of the streets are so new, they are not on some maps (or GPS) yet, so pay attention to these directions!
21600 Poema Pl is an address 1/4 mile east the parking area. The Meetup map works on Android (Google maps) and takes you to parking area via Canoga Ave.
If you are using iPhone or car GPS, you may need the following directions, or type in the coordinates 34.279504, -118.600623
🚗From Canoga Ave – go north on Canoga Ave past the 118. Bear right and enter the Deerlake Ranch development; head uphill and make a left on Poema Pl. Go past the 21600 address, cross the bridge (that will be the 2nd bridge you cross), then turn right into the construction site for Crestley/Landsea Homes. Park in cul de sac to the right
🚙From Topanga Cyn Blvd – go north on Topanga past the 118. Turn right on Poema Pl, but don’t go all the way to 21600. Before the bridge turn left into Crestley/Landsea Homes construction site. Park in cul de sac on right.

Trail statistics are approximate. For safety purposes always assume they are underestimated. But don’t be disappointed if they are overestimated. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.
Trail descriptions are based on previous hikes. Current conditions are unknown until arrival. Expect the unexpected and plan accordingly.
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 his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that 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 Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per the ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER.

BIKE RIDE - PARADISE ROAD - SANTA BARBARA BACK COUNTRY
2021-11-01 09:00 - 14:00 | First Crossing Day Use Area, 3900 Paradise Rd, Santa Barbara, CA, 93105, 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 E-BIKE ride will take us along Paradise Road in the back country of Santa Barbara. There will be water in the river this time, so we will have some water crossings. Strong bikers are welcomed to join us on their regular road bikes.
MEETUP LOCATION: First Crossing Day Use Area at 9:00am. SEE SITE BELOW FOR EXACT MEETUP LOCATION:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B032’45.0%22N+119%C2%B046’44.0%22W/@34.5458473,-119.7805285,692m/data=!3m3!1e3!4b1!5s0x80c2c3718d8ca229:0xe3b49369964c0f1b!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x80c2c3718da03671:0x379966d0d9458101!2sOsawa!8m2!3d34.1473113!4d-118.1490259!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.5458437!4d-119.7788833PARKING FEE: $10
RESTROOMS: YES
MEETUP TIME: 9:00 a.m.
DURATION: 4+ HOURS
DISTANCE: 22 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1000′
PACE: 10+ mph
TERRAIN: Paved roads
DEBRIEFING: Picnic lunch after bike ride at Red Rock Day Use Area
MY CELL# IS: 805-358-5972

Mt. McCoy - Fit Beginner
2021-11-02 18:00 - 21:30 | Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera, 1424 Madera Road, Simi Valley, US
3 miles, 700′ gain, fit-beginner.This is one of the classic hikes in Simi Valley.
We’ll meet in the parking lot at the northeast corner of Madera and Royal, just south of the Donut Delite, on the east side of the Clinicas office. We’ll walk from there to the trailhead at 2 Washburn St. where it meets Los Amigos Ave.
The Hike:
We cross Madera and continue through the neighborhood for about 1500′, to the intersection of Washburn St. and Los Amigos Ave (https://www.google.com/maps/place/2+Washburn+St,+Simi+Valley,+CA+93065/@34.2645734,-118.8010877,18z/data=%213m1%214b1%214m5%213m4%211s0x80e82ee581e79e9f:0x42c324cfa0d16fd2%218m2%213d34.2645585%214d-118.7999842). Then we enter a path behind the houses and proceed for 250′ to the entrance. So far, there will have been very little elevation gain.
We’ll enter a series of switchbacks (zig-zag trail) for 1.2 miles to a large cross at the top. This is a steady climb across the face of the hill, always in full view of the neighborhood below. Beginners may find this climb difficult to continue at a fast pace. There is nothing wrong with slowing down while faster hikers move ahead, or resting for a minute several times during this climb.
It may seem easy to get lost because there are many different cross-paths up the face of this hill, but they all lead to the same place. Generally, whenever there is a choice of “left or right”, we take the easier and more worn path. If you happen to find yourself alone and take a wrong turn (aka steep cut), all paths lead up.
If you think this hike is too easy, try running it. The entire hike is an incline and many beginners have declared this hike to be a butt burner.
At the top by the cross, we’ll enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree views and share beverages and/or snacks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
Black Sage
Multiple 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.
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.
The route is posted as a photo for this event.
Distance: 3 miles (round trip)Elevation Gain: 700′Difficulty: Fit Beginner (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781)Duration: 3 hoursPace: 2.0 mphDogs: Yes.Restrooms: Yes – at nearby places of businessDrinking Fountains: Yes – at nearby places of businessParking: FreeTrail: Mostly single-track, excellent conditionWhat to Bring: 1 liter of water.Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.Drinks or snacks to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).Flashlight or headlamp.
Disclaimer / Release of Liabilityhttps://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

PARAMOUNT RANCH AND THE LADY'S SOUTHFACE "Car Shuttle"
2021-11-03 07:30 - 12:00 | 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 seldom used trail on a ridge which leads us to the most challenging ascent of Ladyface Mountain (her south face). Once we gain the summit, we’ll descend her 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 eastern trailhead on Kanan Rd. at 7:30 am:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B007’59.8%22N+118%C2%B045’24.8%22W/@34.133283,-118.7590757,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1332829!4d-118.7568872
DURATION: 4 hours give or take depending on the group.
ROUTE: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/paramount-ranch-to-ladyface-b1a59b3
TERRAIN: Easy to extremely steep trails
DISTANCE: 4 tough miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1500+ 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

TALEPOP LOOP
2021-11-04 07:00 - 10:00 | Juan Bautista de Anza Park, 3701 Lost Hills Rd, 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
We will start our hike at Juan Bautista Park and hike up the Talepop trail and do a loop hike around Mullholand drive.
The Telepop trail is a semi-steep trail with some shady areas along the ridge.
There will be an option to do an additional mile.
Stats:Level- intermediateDistance- 5-6 milesTerrain- fire road and single track trailsRestrooms- at the parkDogs- NOT ALLOWED ON THIS HIKEParking- free
**RAIN CANCELS THIS EVENT**
WHAT TO BRING:A POSITIVE ATTITUDESnacks, at least 2 liters of water, Lug soles with good tread, poles if you like/have them.Hand sanitizer & mask (optional)
My cell: 562 331 3793
CDH POLICY: Any member with two NO SHOWS on CDH events since 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.

Free Day at the Huntington Gardens (small group of fully vaccinated visitors)
2021-11-04 10:30 - 12:30 | The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA, 91108, US
I accidentally reserved 8 tickets for Thursday’s “Free Day” at the fantastical Huntington Gardens so would love to invite fully vaccinated meetup members to join me for a stroll through the gardens followed by a little socially distanced outdoor snack share. Please arrive by 10:30 as we must enter in two groups. No plus ones allowed on this one. Please update your RSVP if you cannot make it.
Parking: Free on site.Distance: just a meander on mostly paved or hard packed paths, 0.8-1.6 miles at most.Gain: maybe 150 feet.Known Dangers: Allergies, too much sun, bamboo forests, lawyers.What you’ll see: https://www.gardenvisit.com/gardens/huntington_botanical_gardens

The Movie "DUNE" and optional lunch at STONEHAUS
2021-11-04 11:15 - 14:15 | REGAL JANSS MARKETPLACE 9, 255 N. Moorpark Rd., Tousand 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
My wife, Ronee and I will be seeing the movie “DUNE” this Thursday at the Janns Mall in Thousand Oaks at 11:15 am. You’re welcomed to join us. After, as an option, we are also planning to have a late lunch at the Stonehaus.
MOVIE TRAILER:https://www.fandango.com/dune-2021-219677/movie-overview?cid=fandango_web_home_carousel&date=2021-11-04
MEETUP LOCATION: In front of the Regal Janss Marketplace Theater255 N. Moorpark Rd. Thousand Oaks:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B010’58.0%22N+118%C2%B052’44.5%22W/@34.182789,-118.8795662,217m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1827888!4d-118.8790185
MEETUP TIME: 11:15 A.M.
SHOW TIME: 11:30 A.M.
OPTIONAL LUNCH AT STONEHAUS: https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B008’55.3%22N+118%C2%B049’05.5%22W/@34.148687,-118.8193091,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1486866!4d-118.8181937
MY CELL #: 805-358-5972

Hill Canyon - Hawk Lollipop - Easy Intermediate, beginner option
2021-11-04 18:00 - 21:30 | Hill Canyon Trailhead, 10241 Hill Canyon Road, Camarillo, CA, US
5.3 miles, 600′ gain, Easy-Intermediate2 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 milesGain: 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 hoursDogs: Yes.Restrooms: Yes, at trailheadDrinking 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 Trailhead10241 Hill Canyon Road (address is before trailhead, continue to gravel lot on left)Santa Rosa Valley, CA 93012Coordinates 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 milesLeft (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/

Mill Creek Summit to Mt. Pacifico and Return
2021-11-06 08:00 - 15:00 | Mill Creek Summit Picnic Area, Pacifico Mountain Rd, Palmdale, CA, 93550, US
Hike to Mt. Pacifico via the PCT from the Mill Creek Summit Ranger Station at the crest of the Angeles Forest Hwy and return. The top of Mt. Pacifico has very nice picnic tables and is a frequent destination for campers.
There is LOTS of exposure on this hike, so be prepared for lots of sun.Mt. Pacifico itself is beautiful and in the trees.
A word of caution, Mt. Pacifico lies just west of the western edge of the Bobcat fire closure. I don’t believe the camp or the route has been affected.
Bring snacks for the summit and trail.
Stats:
Distance: 13 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,400 ft.
Max elevation : 7,103 ft.
Rating: 7/10 Somewhat strenuous
Trail: Mostly single track and a bit of graded forest service road.
ESSENTIALS:
2 Liters of water (Minimum)
Sunscreen
Hat
Snacks
Hiking Poles (Recommended)
Layered clothing (can be windy & chilly at the summit)
Check the Weatherhttps://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-118.04616458004175&lat=34.38350843275154
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring 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 snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while carrying on a conversation with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
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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.﻿﻿

RAZORBACKS SERIES IN THE LOS PADRES MOUNTAINS #1
2021-11-06 08:00 - 16:00 | Flying J Travel Center, 42810 Frazier Mountain Rd, Lebec, CA, 93243, 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
Have you looked at our past events into the RAZORBACK ridge area of the Los Padres National Forest and wished you were able to enjoy this area but missed out. Well, I’ll now be posting a series of events for all our CDH members to enjoy this area below pinyon pine covered ridges. We’ll start off with the easier hikes and work up to exploratory ones. I’ll number these so that you’ll be able to identify which ones you have done. As in Bryce Canyon, there are many canyons, but unlike Bryce where you have to stay on the trails, this area has but one trail. the rest of the events will be x-country routes.All our events will first have us meet at the Flying J Travel Center in Lebec and car pool from there to our destinations about 30 minutes away.
======================= RAZORBACKS #1 ==============================
This first area of the Razorbacks is where I was first introduced to these spectacular weather created rock sculptures in the Los Padres National Forest while on a Cub Scout outing at Camp Three Falls over 25 years ago with my son. Access will be via a 4+ mile 500′ gain round trip trail starting at 5500′ and reaching our viewing destination at 6000′.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME:The Flying J Travel Center in Lebec at 8:00 am:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B049’00.4%22N+118%C2%B053’10.2%22W/@34.8167674,-118.8883557,918m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m17!1m10!4m9!1m3!2m2!1d-119.1365275!2d34.7489344!1m3!2m2!1d-119.1584843!2d34.7287962!3e0!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.8167631!4d-118.8861666From here we’ll caravan to the Three Falls Boy Scout Camp where we will start the hike.
DISTANCE: 4+ miles
ROUTE: Double and single track trails to the ridgeline overlooking THE BOWL.
ELEVATION GAIN/LOSS: 500’+/500’+
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest Trekker
DURATION: I’d like to get back to the cars no later than 2:00 p.m. It’s a short hike and a long drive, but the views are well worth it. We’ll spend a lot of time soaking in the views before heading back down. This event is perfect for our WW (Walking Wounded) members.
LUNCH OPTION: After the hike, as an option, those interested can join me for a late lunch The Falcon Nest in Frazier Park.
LEVEL: Advanced beginner
MY CELL# IS 805-358-5972
NO DOGS ALLOWED

Historic Hike to the Calabasas Stairs
2021-11-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Juan Bautista de Anza East Trailhead, Calabasas, CA, 91302, United States
A loop hike filled with local history and a set of stairs. What more can you ask for? Our hike will begin at the west end of Calabasas Rd where “The Trail Between Two Valleys” was dedicated in 2005
This is the path the Juan Bautista De Anza party took in 1776 connecting the San Fernando Valley and Las Virgenes Valley while establishing missions along the way from Mexico to San Francisco.
2
One of the attractions along this trail is a more than 100-year old section of US 101, known at the time as Ventura Rd aka El Camino Real. Here are a couple of sections from when the road was widened in 1924. I shot the first on 8/2006. Fellow member Bruce cleaned up the area about 8 years ago and revealed the contractor’s name

We’ll then connect to the Anza Loop Trail and into Calabash Canyon where we’ll come across some interesting artifacts. This pair of photos is from 8/2006 when I first explored the area. The trail was once an active jeep road.

After some switchbacks, grassy hillsides and wooded canyons we’ll make a side trip to the Calabasas Stairs, a straight up-and-down shot rising a total of 375 steps. The stairs are a tenth of a mile long and climb 185 feet of elevation.
But before we get to the stairs we’ll need to climb an old set of steps (photo is from 2/2020)

We will then return to the cars along sloping grasslands.
HIKE IS ABOUT 5 MILES WITH ABOUT 1,400 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED MEDIUM. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
Directions
Drive to the western end of Calabasas Rd and park in cul-de-sac

Wildwood Park - Las Flores potluck hike
2021-11-07 16:00 - 20:00 | 604 W Avenida De Las Flores, 604 W Avenida De Las Flores, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, US
Daylight saving will occur on this Sunday, 11/7. Please turn your clocks back one hour.
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 pot luck picnic. Please bring something to eat and drink, and a little extra to share. If your item requires it, bring plates and utensils to share. We’ll share snacks and drinks (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) for 60 – 90 minutes, before heading back the way we came.
Hike Distance: 4 milesGain: 600′Distribution: Well distributed.Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Fit BeginnerShape: Out and Back.Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire Road, Single-Track, and Double-Track.Duration: 4.0 hoursDogs: Yes.Restrooms: YesDrinking Fountains: Yes.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.Snacks and/or beverages to share.
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.
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 Trailhead604 W Avenida De Las FloresThousand Oaks, CA, 91360
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

BIKE RIDE - Westlake Village
2021-11-08 08:00 - 11:00 | Triunfo Park, 980 Aranmoor Ave, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, 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
BIKE RIDE – Westlake VillageThe route will start at Triunfo Park and continue clockwise around the lake 3 times.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME:8:00 am at Triunfo Park:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B009’22.2%22N+118%C2%B050’45.8%22W/@34.1548761,-118.8445732,451m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1561769!4d-118.8460542
PARKING FEE: No
DISTANCE: 16+ miles.
ELEVATION GAIN: 250
THE PACE: 9 mph or more.
DURATION: 2 to 3 hours
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner capable of at least 9 MPH
TERRAIN: Street bike path
RESTROOMS: At Triunfo Park
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

BIKE RIDE - Westlake Village - Optional stop over at The Stonehaus for breakfast
2021-11-08 08:00 - 11:00 | Triunfo Park, 980 Aranmoor Ave, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, 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
BIKE RIDE – Westlake VillageThe route will start at Triunfo Park and continue clockwise around the lake 3 times.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME:8:00 am at Triunfo Park:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B009’22.2%22N+118%C2%B050’45.8%22W/@34.1548761,-118.8445732,451m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1561769!4d-118.8460542
PARKING FEE: No
DISTANCE: 16+ miles.
OPTIONAL BREAKFAST: The Stonehaushttps://the-stonehaus.com/
ELEVATION GAIN: 250
THE PACE: 9 mph or more.
DURATION: 3+ hours
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner capable of at least 9 MPH
TERRAIN: Street bike path
RESTROOMS: At Triunfo Park and The Stonehaus
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Chivo Canyon - Intermediate
2021-11-09 18:00 - 21:30 | 5079 Westwood St, 5079 Westwood St, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
4.25 miles, 1200′ gain, intermediate.
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 right and work our way up the fire road for about 1/2 mile, and make a right at the split. Then it’s a steady climb for a mile to a flat spot on the top of the hill. We’ll have a social event there 30-60 minutes. Please bring food and drink to share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
We’ll continue straight and down for 1/4 mile, and turn left at the junction. Then we’ll follow the course of the trail for another 1.5 miles of mostly downhill until we arrive back at the trailhead.
Finally, 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: 4.25 milesElevation Gain: 1200′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.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability:https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

PARAMOUNT RANCH AND THE LADY'S EXPLORATORY SOUTHFACE "Car Shuttle"
2021-11-10 07:30 - 12:00 | 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 seldom used trail on a ridge which leads us to the most challenging ascent of Ladyface Mountain, her other south face (an exploratory route). Once we gain the summit, we’ll descend her 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 eastern trailhead on Kanan Rd. at 7:30 am:https://www.google.com/maps/place/34%C2%B007’59.8%22N+118%C2%B045’24.8%22W/@34.133283,-118.7590757,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d34.1332829!4d-118.7568872
DURATION: 4 hours give or take depending on the group.
ROUTE: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/paramount-ranch-to-ladyface-b1a59b3
TERRAIN: Easy trails to extremely steep rock scrambling
DISTANCE: 5 tough miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 1500+ 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

Tapo Canyon Tar Pits - Easy Intermediate
2021-11-11 18:00 - 21:30 | 3803 Tapo Canyon Rd, 3803 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, US
5.4 miles, 1050′ gain, Easy Intermediate.
This hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in Simi Valley. There are 3 extended inclines, about 1000 steps each, on fire road. They are not especially steep, but they do continue for some time, which is why it is rated “Easy Intermediate.” There are also several small hills of 100 steps or less.
The extended inclines will get the blood pumping and maybe even cause a curse or two during this lollipop hike. We’ll be moving through the famous Tapo Canyon and visiting natural tar pits that bubble up from the ground.
The first pit is really a puddle that looks like someone spilled a couple 55-gallon drums of tar that was later contained using a spill rope. The next two are a little larger, again, contained by spill ropes to keep the sticky black tar from getting on the trail.
I would advise you not to touch the tar with anything other than a stick, because even a drop on your fingertip will be hard to get off.
From the trail head, we’ll start on a leisurely stroll for about 0.6 miles, followed by a steady climb for the next mile, completing the first extended incline.
We’ll turn left at the junction, climb a small hill of a couple hundred steps, and then head down for 1.5 miles.
We’ll make a right turn down a smaller trail and go for about 100 yards until we reach the tar pits. After looking around for a bit, we’ll head back, and after 0.25 miles, we’ll come to another junction where we will stop and share snacks and beverages (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772).
For the return, we’ll turn left and there will be a steady climb for about 3/4 of a mile to another junction. We’ll turn left again and return down for about 1.4 miles to complete the lollipop.
Route: There is a photo posted with this event.
Interesting Notes:
You are sure to see plenty of this plant –
Yellow Star Thistle
Thorny. 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:
Tapo Canyon3802 Tapo Canyon RoadSimi Valley, CA 93063
From the 118:
Exit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.Tapo Canyon Rd. north for 1.7 miles.Trail head on the right, before Lost Canyon Rd.Parking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
From CA-23:
CA-23 north to CA-118 east.CA-118 east for 8.7 miles.Exit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.Tapo Canyon Rd. north (left) for 1.7 miles.Trail head on the right.Parking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
Hike
Distance: 5.4 milesGain: 1050′Distribution: Reasonably well distributed.Difficulty (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879781): Easy Intermediate.Shape: Lollipop, clockwise.Pace: 2.0 mph.Trail Type: Fire road and double 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 in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
What to bring:1 liter of water for every 3 miles.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.
Hosting
Route: The host knows 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. 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 share (https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/messages/boards/thread/50879772) at the half way point, which we will pass, and then return to after seeing the tar pits.
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.
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.
Release of Liability: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-Plus/pages/29622459/Is_Hiking_Dangerous/

Canyon Overlook Trail to Wildwood Canyon Trail
2021-11-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Hill Canyon Trailhead, Hill Canyon Rd, Camarillo, CA, 93012, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/canyon-overlook-trail-to-wildwood-canyon-trail-loop
Hello Fellow Hikers,With this hike we will be starting from Santa Rosa Valley and making our way through Wildwood Regional Park. We will pass the Paradise waterfall as well as the tepee were we will take the Stagecoach Trail to the Canyon Overlook Trail. This trail will have a little of everything including both shade and non shaded areas. A very pretty hike. I attached the AllTrails link for directions, pics, and stats https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/canyon-overlook-trail-to-wildwood-canyon-trail-loop
Trail loopMiles 5.0Rated moderateElevation Gain 967 ftDogs allowed
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
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 guess

Ice House Canyon To Ontario Peak and Return
2021-11-13 07:00 - 16:00 | Ice House Canyon, Baldy, Ice House Canyon Road, Mt Baldy, CA, 91759, US
Distance: 13 miles round trip; 3,593′ elevation gain/loss
Rating: 8/10, not for beginners.
Elevation starts at 5,100’ at the trail head.
Adventure Parking Pass Required!
Bring plenty of water and electrolyte replacement!
Check the Weather (http://www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/hdfForecast?query=91759)
Ontario Peak is the smaller sister of Cucamonga Peak in the Cucamonga Wilderness. Ontario Peak, with its 8,693′ summit, offers spectacular views of the entire area including the inland empire (on a clear day), the San Jacintos, the San Bernardinos, the Santa Ana Mountain range which lies directly south, and the majority of the other major peaks in the area, such as Baldy, the three T’s, Cucamonga, etc… The hike begins in Icehouse Canyon, the hikers’ gateway to the eastern high country and the Cucamonga Wilderness. Its broad, V shaped portal leads east from San Antonio Canyon, 10 miles north of Mt. Baldy Village, and climbs 2600′ to Icehouse Saddle, a prominent gap on the great Telegraph Ontario Ridge. The saddle is a major trail junction, with routes leading in four directions. From the saddle we’ll follow the trail up past Kelly’s Camp, climbing a further 500′ to the summit to enjoy the view and lunch. As always know your limits, bring ample quantities of water, a hat and sunscreen, good hiking shoes. Walking sticks would be helpful in certain areas.
The Norman Ollestad Story
On February 19, 1979, 11-year-old Norman Ollestad was traveling from Santa Monica airport into Big Bear to retrieve a skiing trophy he had won the day before. Along for the ride were his father, his father’s girlfriend, Sandra, and the pilot of the small, chartered Cessna.
About fifteen minutes into the flight, they were caught up in a blizzard and the plane crashed into Ontario Peak mountain and Norman’s father and the pilot were instantly killed. Norman and Sandra survived, but she had a broken arm and a severe head injury. Cut off from radar, and in the middle of a near white-out, little Norman had to lead them down to safety with Sandra, sometimes, literally on his back. The dangerous trek down the steep mountain lasted 9 hours, and when it was over, Sandra too, was dead. Frostbitten and barely able to walk, Norman was the only survivor of the tragedy.
Norman wrote of his experience in Crazy for the Storm (http://www.crazyforthestorm.com/index.php).
Directions: Check your local map to plan a route to the 210 freeway traveling east from Pasadena past the 57 freeway. As you enter the town of Upland, exit at Base Line, turn left on Base Line and take the first right on Padua Ave. Make a right on Mt. Baldy Road into the mountains towards Baldy Village. A couple miles after Baldy Village you will enter the parking lot for Ice House Canyon. Make sure you do not keep going up to the Manker Flats area. Park your car in the parking lot making sure to display your pass in the windshield.
*******************************************************************
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.
