E-MOUNTAIN BIKING (EASY DIRT ROADS IN THE BIG BEAR LAKE AREA)
2025-07-05 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | sycamore canyon campgrounds NATURE CENTER, 9000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, Los Angeles, CA, US
This ride will have us e-biking on very easy dirt forest service roads south of Big Bear Lake.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
Also, check your bike out at home to make sure it’s in working order and tires inflated before you arrive at the meetup location.
MEETUP LOCATION: RESTROOMS at 630 Knickerbocker Rd, Big Bear Lake. We’ll all meet here and then caravan a short distance to the end of Club View Lane.
MEETUP TIME: 9:00 am.
PARKING FEE: None
ROUTE
DISTANCE: 20 miles.
ELEVATION GAIN: 2400′
OPTIONAL LUNCH: After ride we can have a late lunch at the Oakside (40701 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake)
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest in the group
DURATION: 5+ hours
LEVEL: Beginner Mountain E-biker
TERRAIN: Easy forest service dirt roads
RESTROOMS: At camp sites along the way
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Hike at O'Neill Regional Park - Vista Outlook (Loop)
2025-07-06 07:00 - 09:30 (America/Denver) | O’Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA, 92679, US
The hike we will be doing is approximately 5 miles with 870 ft. of elevation gain.
We will begin at the Live Oak Trail trailhead. This is where you will see on the map that the Live Oak Trail hits the paved road. This is the parking lot closest to the Edna Spaulding Trail. (There should also be someone at the gate when you come in that can direct you where to go.)
We start by going up Live Oak Trail and up Vista Trail. We will take back Hoffman Homestead Trail, Coyote Trail, and back to Live Oak. This will take us back to where we started.
Overall, this will be a moderate hike with more of the hills while we’re on the Vista Trail.
If you have any questions before the hike, please feel free to ask.
Here is a link to the park map: https://www.ocparks.com/sites/ocparks/files/2021-04/O%27Neill%20Regional%20Park%20Map.pdf
The address is: 30892 Trabuco Canyon Rd. Trabuco Canyon, CA 9267
Dogs are not allowed on these trails.
Parking is $5 unless you have the OC Parks Annual Pass.

DSB (Journey Tribute) - Potluck Picnic, Concert, & Patriotic Drone Show!
2025-07-06 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Denver) | Chumash Park, 5550 Medea Valley Drive, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, US
Join us as DSB celebrates and reinvents the timeless music of the legendary Journey Tribute followed by patriotic drone show!
Let’s enjoy potluck picnic before the concert.
If your item requires utensils, please supply them.
You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Located at Chumash Park, 5550 Medea Valley Drive, Agoura Hills.
Field seating on grass – bring lawn chairs & blankets, food and drink to share.
Concert starts at 6pm.
For more information: 818-597-7361
www.agourahillsrec.org
Look for the location of members posted in the comments close to event time.

Rosewood Trail to Angel Vista - Gentler Intermediate *** START at 8:00 ***
2025-07-08 08:00 - 10:00 (America/Denver) | 150 Regal Oak Ct, 150 Regal Oak Ct, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
We will start our hike near the beginning of Regal Oak Ct. on the lower Rosewood Trail, a dirt trail heading up a shaded ravine at the base of the mountains, and continue to the usual Rosewood trail. Rosewood trail presents a clear view over the 101 Freeway carving up the Conejo Valley. This is a preview of the panorama to come at Angel Vista, and the view grows larger as you hike higher up the mountain. At the top, the picnic table at Angel Vista offers one of the magnificent panoramic viewpoints in the Santa Monica Mountains in a coastal area including the Boney Mountains, Sandstone Peak and the rocky crown of Santa Monicas with Conejo Valley, the Oxnard Plains and (on a clear day) a couple of the Channel Islands.
This hike is about 5 miles with an elevation gain/loss approximately 900’.
Directions: From the 101 Freeway take Ventu Park Rd. south, turn right on Lynn Rd. and left on Regal Oak.
PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Please review our guidelines to participate in our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
Plan on KEEPING UP with the group at a moderate pace (>2.5 MPH) and completing the entire hike.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers and hosts are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and hosts from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Sorry, we don’t allow “Plus-Ones” on our hikes. Please join the group, then sign up for a hike.

Intermediate 7 - 8 miles ~ Ray Miller Trail and Overlook Trail in Malibu
2025-07-08 08:30 - 11:15 (America/Denver) | La Jolla Canyon, 8588 Pacific Coast Hwy, 2 mi North of Sycamore Canyon, Ventura, CA, US
Join us on an out and back hike up the Ray Miller Trail and the Overlook Trail. We’ll enjoy beautiful ocean views as we descend. We’ll pick up about 1300’ gain on this 7-8 mile adventure.
Lying along the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean at the west end of Malibu (just shy of Port Hueneme), the swelling blue ocean is rivaled in beauty by the undulating native California grasslands. On a clear day, the Channel Islands are easily within sight.
Most of the trail is exposed, so sunscreen is highly recommended and plenty of water.
We’ll meet in the parking lot near the Ray Miller Trailhead (look for the brilliant yellow sign). There is a parking fee in the lot (or free with state parking pass). There is free parking on PCH just a short walk to the parking area.
https://a248.e.akamai.net/secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/7/4/a/event_93326442.jpeg
Please review the ongoing guidelines to participate in our morning hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:
https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
No dogs on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike with the group, or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
Directions:
From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) north, 22 miles from Malibu Canyon Rd. Across the street from Thornhill Broome Beach is the entrance to La Jolla Canyon. It is very clearly marked. Turn right.
From Ventura, take PCH eastward, and turn left 4 miles after Las Posas Road.
Do NOT leave anything of value in your car, at this or any other trailhead.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Mt. McCoy
2025-07-08 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Denver) | Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera, 1424 Madera Road, Simi Valley, US
Easy Intermediate, 3 miles, 600′ gain
Easier Option: 2.4 mi, 530′ gain. (5 Washburn St, Simi Valley, CA 93065, or 89 La Paz Ct, Simi Valley, CA 93065 to save another 500′ distance).
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
Easy end of the Intermediate Spectrum, due to the 1 mile continuous incline that can get exhausting. A fit beginner can easily complete it.
We cross Madera and continue through the neighborhood for about 1500′, to the intersection of Washburn St. and Los Amigos Ave. 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.
For those that want a little easier option start at this address: 1366 Los Amigos Ave, Simi Valley, CA 93065. Join the group as we pass.
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.
At the top by the cross or one of the nearby benches, we’ll enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree views and share beverages and/or snacks.
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.
Distance: 3 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 700′
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate
Duration: 3 1/2 hours
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: Yes – at nearby places of business
Drinking Fountains: Yes – at nearby places of business
Parking: Free
Trail: Mostly single-track, excellent condition
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
What to Bring
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Directions
For those doing the regular route:
1424 Madera Rd, Simi Valley, CA 93065
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

LEO CARRILLO SB TO CIRCLE X RANCH LOOP
2025-07-09 08:30 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Leo Carrillo State Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach California 90265, https://goo.gl/maps/H33VQnXpx1WFZqdw5, Malibu, CA, 90265, US
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
We’ll start this ride early in order to beat the afternoon summer heat as we head uo to Circle X Ranch from PCH. The roads we are taking are steep and winding mountain roads with little traffic.
Make sure you have green slime or FlatOut in your inner tubes to avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: At Leo Carrillo State Beach at 8:30am.
PARKING: There is a fee to park in Leo Carrillo State Beach. You can park on PCH where it’s legal to do so.
RESTROOMS: At the beginning/end and 8 miles into the ride.
DISTANCE: 20 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 2600′
DURATION: 3+ hours
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Paved roads
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Intermediate
DEBRIEFING: After the ride we can have lunch at Neptune’s Net
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

COSF Speaker Event: Lions and Fires and Humans, Oh Deer!
2025-07-09 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Denver) | Online event
How mule deer in the Santa Monica Mountains and Conejo Valley navigate a dynamic landscape of risks and rewards.
A virtual presentation by Ellie Bolas on Wednesday July 9 at 7:00 pm.
Register to watch!
Please join us for the live online presentation of “Lions and Fires and Humans, Oh Deer!” by ecologist Ellie Bolas. Currently a PhD candidate at the University of California Davis (UCD), Bolas will discuss how mule deer in the Santa Monica Mountains and Conejo Valley navigate a dynamic landscape of risks and rewards.
Bolas’s research in partnership with the National Park Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife examines mountain lion and mule deer behavior, spatial ecology and predator-prey interactions relative to wildfire and humans. Bolas has been involved in wildlife research and conservation for almost 15 years. In 2020, she completed an MS in Ecology from UCD on the ecology and conservation of the island spotted skunk on the Channel Islands.

Ride the Two Winds (Dos Vientos) - Gentler Friendly Hike
2025-07-10 08:00 - 10:00 (America/Denver) | Dos Vientos Community Park, 4801 Borchard Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
Note 8:00am start time!
This hike will start at 8:00 and we will go the opposite direction of the other hike in Dos Vientos that also starts at 8:00 on this Thursday. We will go slightly slower than the other hike but still beat the heat. We will loop around the periphery of Dos Vientos Open Space, passing Twin Ponds, overlooking Potrero Road and the Oxnard Plain with the Channel Islands in the background.
This hike is about 5.0 miles with 800 feet of elevation gain.
Pace: This is a gentler friendly hike. We will go at a slightly slower pace and we will finish in about 2-2 1/2 hours. Faster hikers are welcome to join us so long as they are willing to hike at the slower pace of the group or wait at the forks on the trail. There are many confusing side trails in Dos Vientos so please plan to stay in contact with the group, not too fast and not too slow, plenty of forks to wait for the rest of the group.
Please note this trail is very exposed (no shade) and there is no water along the way.
DIRECTIONS: From the 101 Freeway in Newbury Park, exit at Borchard Road. Drive 3.4 miles and turn into the Dos Vientos Community Park on the right, just after Via Ricardo (and before Via Las Brisas). Meet near the tennis courts to the left.
If you are coming from the NW, exit Wendy and turn left on Wendy and then a right on Borchard to Dos Vientos Community Park.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.

Ride the Two Winds (Dos Vientos) - Gentler Friendly Hike (Not a Beginner's Hike)
2025-07-10 08:00 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | Dos Vientos Community Park, 4801 Borchard Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
Note 8:00 am start time! Beat the heat with an earlier start!
This hike will loop around the periphery of Dos Vientos Open Space, going behind Twin Ponds, overlooking Potrero Road and the Oxnard Plain with the Channel Islands in the background. We will cross 3 streets along the way.
This hike is about 6.0 miles with 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Pace: This is a gentler friendly hike. We will go at a slightly slower pace than the Intermediate Trailblazer Hikes and we will finish in about 2-2 1/2 hours, but this is not a beginner hike. Faster hikers are welcome to join us so long as they are willing to hike at the slower pace of the group or wait at the forks on the trail. There are many confusing side trails in Dos Vientos so I ask that everyone plan to stay in contact with the group, not too fast and not too slow!
Please note this trail is very exposed (no shade) and there is no water along the way.
DIRECTIONS: From the 101 Freeway in Newbury Park, exit at Borchard Road. Drive 3.4 miles and turn into the Dos Vientos Community Park on the right, just after Via Ricardo (and before Via Las Brisas). Meet near the tennis courts to the left.
If you are coming from the NW, exit Wendy and turn left on Wendy and then a right on Borchard to Dos Vientos Community Park.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.

Wendy Lollipop
2025-07-10 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Denver) | 4128 Potrero Rd, 4128 Potrero Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, US
4.6 miles, 1000′ gain, Easy Intermediate
Easier Option – 2.7 miles, 320′ gain
Many have gotten lost relying on GPS. This is the Wendy Trailhead, where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd.
Heading out, we cross a creek, turn right at the split, then Turn right at the dead end. We regroup at the visitor center, where there will be bathrooms.
We cross the wooden bridge and go left at the asphalt path.
After 1/3 mile, those that want the easier path turn left, go 0.4 miles and turn right at the dead end. After 500′, wait at the bench for the rest of the group (45 – 60 min).
The rest will continue down for 3/4 mile. There will be a porta-potty and picnic table. We’ll regroup, then turn right and go about 1.3 miles and another 435′ of gain before turning left and heading up about 1/2 mile.
At the top, we’ll turn left for 500′ and arrive at a bench and overlook. We’ll share snacks and beverages for 30-60 minutes, then head down 500′, turn right at the junction, and return to our cars.
If you wish to return before the social event completes, study the map so you can find your way back.
The Route
Hike Distance: 4.6 mi / 2.7 mi
Gain: 1000′ / 320′
Distribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the middle of this hike.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate / Fit beginner
Shape: Lollipop.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road, double track, single track.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: We pass a “no dogs” sign.
Restrooms: Yes
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along street.
What to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.
Flashlight or headlamp. Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hosting Route: The host knows the route.
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.
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 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 an arrow made of baking soda or sticks.
Group separation: Hikers moving significantly ahead or not waiting at designated stopping points are on their own regarding route and navigation.
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you will see on this hike:
Heartleaf Penstemon
Leaves are shiny and saw toothed, shaped like hearts, 2 to 6 centimeters long and arranged oppositely on the branches. Stems are red. Small scarlet red tubular flowers.
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. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder.
Root can be chopped up and used as soap. To eat root, remove skin and core, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. The fruit is also edible, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water, lightly pound leaves with rock or club, or scrape skin off skin. Roll between hands, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage.
Directions:
Wendy Trail Head
4128 Potrero Rd
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.154507, -118.950095
From CA-118:
CA-118 west for 8 miles.
CA-23 south for 7.4 miles.
US-101 North for 2 miles.
Exit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.
Left on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.
Park on Potrero.
From US-101 north/west of Wendy:
US-101 south, exit Wendy Dr.
South on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.
Park on Potrero.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

COLDSPRINGS TAVERN to East & West Camino Cielo Rd.
2025-07-11 08:00 - 13:00 (America/Denver) | Dead Horse Parking Lot, 21935 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA, 90290, US
This is an opportunity to take on East & West Camino Cielo Road to enjoy the stunning views overlooking Santa Barbara/Goleta and the Pacific Ocean that it offers. A lot of this route is shaded. We’ll start near the Cold Springs Tavern and make our way up to the Painted Cave. From there we’ll head back to West Camino Cielo Road to The Lizard’s Mouth Rock. From there we’ll head back to our cars and debrief at the Tavern.
Make sure you have Tannus inserts, green slime or FlatOut in your inner tubes to avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: On Stagecoach Road just north of The Coldsprings Tavern at 8:00am
RESTROOMS: At the beginning and end of the ride.
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
DISTANCE: 20 miles.
ELEVATION GAIN: 3200′
DURATION: 4+ hours
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Winding, mostly shaded paved roads with very little traffic.
DEBRIEFING: Lunch at the Cold Spring Tavern after the ride.
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Easy intermediate
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

El Prieto
2025-07-12 07:00 - 10:00 (America/Denver) | Leo Carrillo State Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach California 90265, https://goo.gl/maps/H33VQnXpx1WFZqdw5, Malibu, CA, 90265, US
DESCRIPTION: This is a 6.2-mile out-and-back trail near La Canada Flintridge, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. Approximately. the first 3/4 mile will be on a paved road. There is a decent amount of shade. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and mountain biking. There could be a lot of mountain bikers on this trail, hikers do have the right of way, but we will need to step aside to let them pass us.
If you are not a fan of lots of people, mountain bikers and walking on a paved road, then this is not the hike for you. If you do not mind and want to enjoy taking in some nature hanging with fellow hikers, I will see you on the trail. 🙂
DETAILS:
· Hike leader volunteer(s): Michele E
· Meet: First Parking lot off of N. Windsor Ave. (left hand side) at
6:45 am, departure at 7:00 am sharp.
· Distance: Approximately 6.2 miles.
· Elevation gain: Approximately 1,673 feet.
· Time: Approximately 3.0 hours hiking including a snack break.
· Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.
· Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
· Restrooms: None.
· Adventure Pass: Required.
IMPORTANT NOTES: We’ll hike at a brisk pace and ask everyone to stay with the group for a friendly and safe outing. There are a few stream crossings with not much water going through. As always, people may slip and fall, encounter poison oak, rattlesnakes, etc. on this hike. This event may be cancelled due to inclement weather before or at the start of the hike.
ESSENTIAL GEAR:
· Hiking boots and poles.
· Clothing layers recommended.
· Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets.
· Hat and sunscreen.
Additional Hiking and Survival Gear Recommendations (link)
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3, Intermediate (see chart below).
Please only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days, how would you score on the CHC Hike rating scale of one to five assuming a brisk pace?
CHC HIKE RANKING SCALE:
1. Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3. Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5. Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION:
North Arroyo La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Parking lot on left hand side of of Windsor Ave.
Driving Directions (link)
NAVIGATION & GEAR:
We highly recommend AllTrails or GAIA apps be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to.
GPS Trail Map (link for downloadable mobile version)
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.

San Jacinto Wilderness one night backpack to San Jacinto Peak
2025-07-12 07:00 - 2025-07-13 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Humber Park, Fern Valley Road 24559, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, 92549, United States
Details
July 12-13, 2025 – San Jacinto Wilderness one night backpack to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s slide trail and North Rim zone.
14.5 miles total and 4,400′ gain over both days. The camp will be a remote site along the North Rim Trail. (Dry camp, but about 1 mile from water if needed.)
This is the second of four training hikes for the High Sierra Trail trek in September. (Giant Forest to Mount whitney, September 20th to October 4th. Hiking Days September 22nd to October 2nd or 3rd.) Priority will be given to those interested in the HST trip, but all training hikes are open to the general group if space permits.
The pace of the HST trip will be modest. The intent is to enjoy the experience rather than to race each other to Mount Whitney.
Meet at 7:00 am at Humber Park. (Devil’s slide trailhead.) Bring an adventure pass and campfire permit to use chemical stoves. (No campfires allowed.)
Add yourself to the waitlist and I will move you to going once I receive feedback on the High Sierra Trail participation. There is a 12-person limit for this backpack.
The plan. Hike the Devil’s slide trail to Saddle junction (8000ft) and take the North Rim trail, to our Saturday trail camp site (9000ft). This campsite is hard to find, so we need to stay close as we get near. This is a dry camp, but water can be found 1.1 miles and 400 feet elevation gain further up the trail at Wellman Cienega in the State wilderness. (No dogs allowed in the State wilderness.)
Sunday we will continue on past Wellman Cienega to San Jacinto peak. (10834ft). Lunch at the peak and then we will retrace our steps back to Saddle Junction and back down the Devil’s slide trail to the cars. (Probably about 3:00pm.)
Bring at least 3 liters of water and a water filter/Treatment pills, enough food (Backpacking Dinner in camp) and snacks to sustain you on this endeavor. Your ten essentials are always required. Know your limits if you are sensitive to altitude. Turn around if needed.
Hike description: GPX files for Day 1 and Day 2 will be sent to participants in advance.
All Trails link to this route, without the campsite info:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/san-jacinto-peak-middle-route-trail
DISCLAIMER: Hike at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. With any trip, things can change, reservations can get lost, the unexpected can happen. A go-with-the-flow attitude is always a good thing, and most importantly, let’s all have fun! Make sure you are in good enough physical shape for the distance, elevation changes, and terrain. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. The hiking group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event or assistant organizers (hike leaders) and…We are NOT responsible for any possible losses, injuries, or death.

Early Morning Hike at Whiting Ranch - Wahoo's Parking Lot
2025-07-12 07:30 - 09:45 (America/Denver) | Wahoo’s Fish Taco, 27412 Portola Parkway, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610, US
This hike will be about 5.4 miles total with 820 ft. of elevation gain.
We are starting at the parking lot at the Wahoo’s parking lot. We will take Live Oak Trail. This turns into Serrano Road which will take us to Serrano Cow Trail. At this part of the trail, we usually see a ton of deer, so cross your fingers! We will get on Sleepy Hollow Trail. This will take us up to Santiago Ranch Road to Cactus Hill. We will take a short break at Four Corners. Then we will come down Whiting Road. Then we will take us back to Serrano Cow Trail and head the same way back to the parking lot.
Here is a link to the park map: http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=15841
If you have any questions, let me know! I’m looking forward to the hike!
*Dogs are not allowed at this park.
Parking is free in the lot.

Late Morning Hike at Whiting Ranch - Wahoo's Parking Lot
2025-07-12 07:30 - 09:45 (America/Denver) | Wahoo’s Fish Taco, 27412 Portola Parkway, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610, US

WEST SANTA MONICA MOUNTAIN LOOP
2025-07-13 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Rancho Sierra Vista, Rancho Sierra Vista/Point Mugu, Newbury Park, CA, 91319, US
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
We can get in some street riding along with some dirt as well on this event. Although Potrero Road and PCH can be intimidating to some riders, by starting out early Sunday morning, the traffic will be very light.
Make sure you have Tannus inserts, green slime or FlatOut in your inner tubes to avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: At Rancho Sierra Vista at at 8:00am
RESTROOMS: At the beginning, middle and end of the ride.
DISTANCE: 25 miles.
ELEVATION GAIN: 1300′
DURATION: 4+ hours
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: 18 miles of street riding and 7 miles on a dirt road along Sycamore Canyon.
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Easy intermediate. The dirt road is easy, but there are some dry creek beds that are not Kim approved.
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

Angel Vista - Just past Full Moon Potluck hike
2025-07-13 16:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver) | Rosewood Trailhead, 305 Regal Oak Ct, Thousand Oaks, CA, US
3.0 miles, 800′ gain, easy-intermediate.
Moonrise 6:09 pm
Photo by Helen
Let’s enjoy the gorgeous sunset, full moon, and fun loaded potluck picnic at the beautiful Angel Vista!
This is a potluck hike. Please bring food, drinks to share.
If your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks, etc., please bring them.
You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
This hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep, but it is continuous, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate.
That said, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed, just stop and rest along the way, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike, it is a social hike, and you really can’t get lost.
The only junction is 200 yards before the top, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb.
At the top, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have a snack-share social event at the top for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share, and utensils of your item requires it.
The top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top.
Interesting Notes
Tree Tobacco
The Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings, bruises, cuts, wounds, boils, sores, inflamed throat, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine.
It contains anabasine, a similar compound, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke.
Elderberry
The blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine, jam, syrup, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets.
Most agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries.
Directions:
Rosewood Trailhead
398 Regal Oak Ct.
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
From the 101
Ventu Park exit, South (toward ocean).
Right on Lynn Road for 1000′.
Left on Regal Oak Ct. for 1/3 mi.
Park on the street
Hike Distance: 3.0 miles
Gain: 800′
Distribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half, which is a continuous climb.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate.
Shape: Out and back.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Double track, single track.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from picnic table.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along the street.
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.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

STREET RIDE - SANTA PAULA TO PIRU
2025-07-15 08:00 - 10:00 (America/Denver) | RAILROAD PLAZA PARK, 923 E Santa Barbara St, SANTA PAULA, CA, 93060, US
ROUTE This will be the planned route.
This ride will be on paved roads through citrus groves as we ride from downtown Santa Paula’s old train depot using backroads to Piru’s old train depot. While in Piru we’ll check out the 1902 Historic Piru Train Bridge. Following the ride, you can join me for lunch at the Flight 126 Cafe in Santa Paula.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube or slime.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: The Railroad Plaza Park in Santa Paula at 8:00am.
RESTROOMS: At the beginning, end and middle of ride.
DISTANCE: 39 miles round trip
ELEVATION GAIN: 1400′
DURATION: 4+ hours
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Paved roads
THE PACE: 8 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Intermediate
DEBRIEFING: After the ride, as an option, you can join me for lunch at The Flight 126 Cafe.
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Malibu Creek State Park (MCSP) from Tapia ~ 8:00 start!
2025-07-15 08:00 - 11:00 (America/Denver) | Salvation Army Camp, 26801 Dorothy Dr., Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
We will start this hike into MCSP from Tapia Park. The Tapia Park entrance is just before the Piuma intersection. Note: a day use fee (machine at entrance) is required if you don’t have a State Park Pass. After you enter Tapia, follow the signs to Salvation Army Camp & Conference Center. It’s about 0.4 mile to the Salvation Army Camp entrance. Park on the right side of the road (lined pull-in parking stalls).
Our hike starts on the Tapia Spur trail, which winds through a lovely chaparral “forest” and drops down onto the road by the park’s group campground. We’ll follow the campground road to the main trailhead (Crags/High Road). Crags Road runs along and above Malibu Creek. The water level has dropped enough to allow a dry crossing of the creek to Mott’s Road, which leads to the Chaparrel trail. The Chaparrel trail climbs up and over the ridge behind the MCSP Visitor’s Center. From there we’ll cross the “big” bridge to Crags Road which will take us to the shaded east end of Century Lake. Next we will use the Cage trail to access the Overlook trail loop with panoramic views of MCSP’s “central valley”. We’ll return to the Tapia Spur trail along the shaded northern side of Malibu Creek.
This out-and-back hike clocks in at around 6.5 miles, with an elevation gain/loss of about 950‘. I have timed this hike at 3 hours to allow a leisurely pace in anticipation of warmer weather.
Directions: From the 101 Freeway take Las Virgenes Rd., south for 4.8 miles to the Tapia Park entrance (south of main MCSP entrance).
Please review the guidelines (link to the guidelines) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
PLEASE bring plenty of water.
Your safety is your own personal responsibility, but the hike leader reserves the right to ask you to leave if you come unprepared.
No “Plus Ones” or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.

DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY – PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

Rancho Sierra Vista, Peace, Love, Joy, via Sycamore ~ Intermediate Hike
2025-07-15 09:00 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Rancho Sierra Vista, Rancho Sierra Vista/Point Mugu, Newbury Park, CA, 91319, US
Let’s head out to the famed Peace, Love, Joy arch at the Danielson Monument (picture). This modified out and back hike is about 7 miles with 1400 feet of elevation gain. Weather should be a mild 72* by the end, so we can leave at the usual 9:00am time.
The hike drops down into Sycamore Canyon, across the bridge, then follow the stream along Upper Sycamore for a few small water crossings, to the “Big Oak Tree” intersection. We then climb Danielson fire road for some fantastic views north to Port Hueneme and Oxnard and west toward the Pacific Ocean. If it’s really clear, we’ll catch a glimpse of Mount Baldy in the distance to our east. At the upper end we’ll visit the the Danielson Monument. We return retracing our path to the Oak Tree along the creek, up to the grasslands and chaparral, returning to the parking lot.
The monument is dedicated to Richard Danielson, the person who donated much of the land for the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMNMRA).
NOTE: Please review the guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:
https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike at an intermediate pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs allowed.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Chivo Tar Pits lollipop - Easy Intermediate with beginner option
2025-07-15 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Denver) | 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.
This is a link to the route: LINK
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 after about 300′, we arrive at a trail junction, which is our social event area.
Easier Option: Those taking the easier option will wait there for 30-45 minutes for the rest to arrive back. They also have the option to turn left and start walking up the hill, turning around to return at any time, or turning back when they run into the fastest people taking the regular route making their way back down.
Regular Option: Those taking the regular route will make a gradual climb for 1 mile and about 450′ of incline. At the top, continue straight and around to the left, down for 3/4 mile, arriving back at the social event area for 30-60 minutes.
Please bring food and drink to share.
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 93063
Park on the street.
The Hike:
Distance: 4.75 miles, option for 3 miles.
Elevation Gain: 700′, option for 300′.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate with beginner option.
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No.
Drinking Fountains: No
Parking: 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
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp. The last 30 minutes may get dark.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Hill Canyon starting at Santa Rosa Regional Park
2025-07-17 08:30 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | Hill Canyon Trailhead, 10241 Hill Canyon Road, Camarillo, CA, US
8:30 start time. We will start this hike at Santa Rosa Regional Park at the parking area in Hill Canyon, cross the bridge over the runoff creek, and stroll a mile before turning onto the fire road up the Western Plateau. We will continue straight at the crest of the fire road and then turn left on the Plateau Rim loop and finally descend down the Hawk Canyon Trail. The Hawk Canyon Trail connects to Western Plateau Trail back to the parking lot. This is approximately 6 miles with an elevation gain of approximately 1000 feet.
Directions:
From Moorpark Road in the Santa Rosa Valley, drive west on Santa Rosa Road for 3.7 miles, turn left (south) on Hill Canyon Road for about 0.6 miles to the parking lot.
From the 101 Freeway in Camarillo, take exit 52 onto Santa Rosa Road and drive northeast. After 5 miles, turn right onto Hill Canyon Road for about 0.6 miles to the parking lot.
Please review the guidelines (link to the guidelines) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Please do not show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
No dogs.
No “Plus Ones” Weekday Trailblazer hikes.

DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY – PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Backbone East from Las Virgenes/Piuma to El Nido - Out and Back
2025-07-17 08:30 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Piuma Cyn Parking Area, Piuma Rd & Malibu Cyn Rd, Malibu, CA, 90263, US
**During warm weather Monte Nido is a little island of coolness. So this Thursday we’ll be hiking a section of the Backbone Trail that runs through it. The trail is particularly pretty, and very shaded overall. We’ll meet at the pay parking lot on Malibu Canyon, just south of Piuma Rd. (There is some free parking nearby, and if you get there early, I can point them out to you.) This is an out and back hike of 6 1/2 miles with 1100 elevation gain.**
Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes and a sun hat. Please consider bringing trekking poles and the 10 essentials (https://bit.ly/1vB2Avz).
Our departure time is 8:30 a.m. Please plan on arriving by 8:15 to get your boots and backpack on in time.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Please review our guidelines to participate in our hikes. Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

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

Oakbrook Vista - Intermediate
2025-07-17 18:00 - 21:30 (America/Denver) | Oakbrook Vista Trailhead, 3222 Lang Ranch Parkway, Thousand Oaks, CA, US
3.2 miles, 900′ gain, Intermediate.
The first part is a steady incline, followed by a rolling trail to our destination. Fit beginners can complete this hike, but it will certainly get their blood pumping. There are no super steep sections.
This hike takes us to a secret spot below a large rock formation. Naturally into the side of the rock is a half-globe carved out of it, giving us a quasi-cave area to sit and have our social event.
This is not a conditioning hike, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up and to make sure they make any turns. We’ll stop at the turn around point for a social event lasting 30 – 60 minutes, where we will share snacks and beverages.
The Route
Hike
Distance: 3.2 miles
Gain: 900′
Distribution: Most of the incline is in the first half.
Difficulty
Shape: Out and Back.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Double track, single track.
Trail Variations:
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: Yes, about a block from the start.
Drinking Fountains: Maybe by the restrooms.
Parking: Park in the street.
What to bring
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. 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.
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 at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks in the shape of an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker.
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:
Manzanita
Rounded leaves. Redish trunk and stems. Hard wood. Lots of curves. People used to spray this tree with lacquer and mount on their walls like a “tree of life” for decoration.
Sticky Monkeyflower
Of the Snapdragon family. The flowers are supposed to resemble a laughing monkey’s face. Leaves are very sticky on the underside.
Directions
Oakbrook Vista Trailhead
3222 Lang Ranch Pkwy.
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.212466, -118.820325
From CA-23
Exit 15 Avenida de Los Arboles.
East on Avenida de Los Arboles until it ends, 1.6 miles.
Right (south) on N. Westlake Blvd 0.2 miles.
Left (east) on Lang Ranch Pkwy. 0.2 miles.
Park on street, trailhead on the right (south) side.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Santa Barbara to Montecito Loop
2025-07-18 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Dead Horse Parking Lot, 21935 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA, 90290, US
We start at Shalhoob’s in Santa Barbara and head up into the hills making a clockwise journey to Montecito via Mountain Drive. After enjoying those coastal views (If the sun is out!), we ride down towards the coast to Summerland Beach and then take a bike lane into Montecito Coast Village. We use a super-secret trail back to the bike path above Butterfly Beach, which leads us back on Cabrillo Boulevard bike lanes and path to Shalhoobs.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: 9am. In front of Shalhoob’s restaurant at 220 Gray Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
PARKING FEE: Free street parking on E. Montecito Street or Gray Ave should be easy at our meetup time.
ROUTE
DISTANCE: 27 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 2700 feet
LUNCH: Our plan is to eat lunch at Shalhoob’s at the end of the ride. We can park our bikes in a secure area next to where we eat.
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest in the group
DURATION: 3+ hours
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner Ebiker
TERRAIN: Road bike lanes, dedicated bike paths, low volume roads.
RESTROOMS: Restroooms near the start at .4 miles, at 1.5 miles on SB City College. 3.3 miles on State Street, 8 miles at Skofield Park and then at 21 miles at Summerland Beach
MY CELL # IS: 661-433-3301

Upper Shake Campground, 7N23 than East via PCT
2025-07-19 07:30 - 11:00 (America/Denver) | 21033 Pine Canyon Rd, 21033 Pine Canyon Rd, Lake Hughes, CA, 93532, US
Another warm day !!! Please bring lots of fluids; 3 liters are recommended.
Temps mild with an early start ending @ mid to high 80’s.
DESCRIPTION: Initial challenging climb up a canyon with a running stream to an old Campground, then a long fire road to top towards Sawmill , then a long section of the PCT back down to the Canyon for the descent down the mountain. Lollipop style. Excellent views of Tehachapi and the Mojave Desert.
Hike leader volunteers: Nancy Harrison
Meet: at trailhead at 7:15 am, departure at 7:30 am sharp. Trailhead
Distance: 7.8 miles
Elevation gain: 1700 ft
Time: ~ 3.5 hours hiking with one snack break
Conditioning: you need to be in generally good physical condition
Dogs: not recommended, due to excessive amounts of poison oak & poodle dog bush, and a narrow canyon climb in and out of the mountain.
No restrooms – so plan accordingly.
Adventure Pass: Not Required
WARNINGS:

There are many areas that have Poison Oak and in certain areas a LOT of Poodle Dog bush – but it is all avoidable if you are observant and careful!
There are sections of narrow trail with adjacent steep drop offs. Bring Poles.

ESSENTIAL GEAR: You will be emailed a full list of Recommended Hiking Gear, but these are essential for this hike”

Hiking shoes/boots and Poles.
Layers recommended. Temps are getting colder!
Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets; camera, hat and sunscreen.
Long pants, and fully covered arms recommended. Technu is a good precaution.
Bug nets highly recommended – lots of bugs!
Appropriate hiking gear and survival essentials recommended.

**THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3 (Intermediate – see chart below)**:
HIKE RANKING SCALE – Consider your capabilities before RSVP’ing for a hike to ensure you are properly conditioned for a hike:
1) Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain
2) Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain
3) Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain
4) Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain
5) Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain
TRAILHEAD LOCATION:

GPS Coordinates are (34.70222740175785, -118.52371637472946) – you can plug this into Google Maps to navigate to the trailhead.

20895-21033 Pine Canyon Rd, Lake Hughes, CA 93532

Park along the north side of the road.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity.
While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes such like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5

North Fork Big Pine Creek / Cloudripper Peak Climb / Two Night Backpack Trip
2025-07-19 08:30 - 2025-07-21 13:00 (America/Denver) | Dead Horse Parking Lot, 21935 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA, 90290, US

Ember Knight! Dark Ride/Immersion Experience/Concert
2025-07-19 20:30 - 22:30 (America/Denver) | 356 S. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90033, 356 S. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, US
Please join us for a performance by Ember Knight (Sage’s daughter): Dark Ride/Immersion Experience/Concert
UNNAMED music video (the song Jim’s been playing on hikes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hr8w7CvS7eI&list=RDHr8w7CvS7eI&start_radio=1
Ember began soloing for the 120-member Agape Intl Choir at the age of 3.
$25 GA in advance
GA $35. at the door (if space allows)
“Getting Mad, one of five shorts in “The Ember Knight Show” series, won the 2022 Audience Award at Slamdance film fest.
AND, ♥️♥️ She’s Sage’s Daughter ♥️♥️ ! Come see her live.
Details and tickets: www.WaterCanFly.com
doors open 7:30; show at 8:30; optional after party
Warehouse at 356 S. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90033
One of the Adult Swim Ember videos on Manners: “Getting Dressed”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhr0W7ASGY4
https://www.instagram.com/stories/emburgler/

Hike at Crystal Cove/Moro Canyon - Ridge Park Entrance/Bommer Ridge
2025-07-20 07:30 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | Crystal Cove SP/Laguna Coast – Ridge Park Entrance (map), Ridge Park Rd & E Coastal Peak, Newport Beach, CA, 92657, US
This hike will be at Crystal Cove State Park. We will be doing part of the Moro Canyon trails. This hike will be about 6.6 miles with approximately 1,000 ft. of elevation gain. We are beginning at the Ridge Park Entrance (see the map for exact details on where to go.)
This hike will take us from Bommer Ridge to Slow and Easy/West Loop Trail. Then we will be on Moro Canyon until W. Cut Across trail, where we will go right. This will take us to No Name Trail, which turns into Pacific Ridge Trail. This will take us back to the beginning.
This will be a moderate+ level of difficulty for the hike.
Parking is free on the street coming through this entrance.
Here is a link to the park map:
http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=45106
(Our starting point is shown on this map marked Ridge Park Public Access with a 9 next to it.)
Here is another map just for Crystal Cove:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/644/files/ccsp_map_trail_distance_box.pdf
Dogs are not allowed on this hike.
