Hiking with Dean

Wildwood Canyon Waterfall Hike
2026-09-01 08:30 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | Canna St and Timberwood Ave., 2800 - 2810 Canna St, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360, US
Attention! New Trailhead. This will be the second time for this special Wildwood Park hike where we will start at a different trailhead located at Canna St. and Timberwood Ave. The theme for this 6.15 mi/345′ hike is “stay low and go with the flow”. This will allow us to stay within earshot of the water and shade for most of the hike. We will pass by Paradise Falls coming and going.
From the parking lot adjacent to the playfield we walk UNDER Avenida de los Arboles to begin the hike. This trailhead location allows us to experience more of the beautiful Conejo Arroyo connector trail that leads into Wildwood Park. We will follow the Wildwood Canyon trail all the way to the Hill Canyon Treatment plant where we will bite off a bit of the Lizard Rock trail, looping above the treatment plant on our way back.
Directions:
From the 101 in Thousand Oaks, turn north on Lynn Road and continue 2.6 miles to Avenida de los Arboles, then turn left. Take the first right off of Avenida de los Arboles (Canna St.). Parking is in the lot at the intersection of Timberwood Avenue & Canna St.
From the 118, travel west to the 23, exit at Avenida De Los Arboles and turn right. Drive further than you remember having to drive to this trailhead (10 or 15 minutes). After you cross Lynn Road, take the first right as described above.
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.
Plan on KEEPING UP with the group and completing the entire hike at a moderate pace**,** or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
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.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

8 mile ~ Encinal Canyon to Top of the World ~ Intermediate Hike
2026-09-01 08:30 - 11:00 | Encinal Canyon Road Backbone Trail, 1097 Encinal Canyon Road, malibu, CA, 90265, US
Encinal Canyon is named for encina, the Spanish word for the holm oak, a lovely Mediterranean tree with holly characteristics. Holm oaks are one of the main trees used to establish truffle orchards, but we’ll be nosing around the canyon strictly for its beauty.
The trail from Encinal is a smooth, firm, and well-traveled single track, swooping and winding with a constant, gentle slope. We’ll have fabulous views of the coast for much of the way. Close to the top, we’ll take on the slightly steeper Etz Meloy Motorway, then the last tenth of a mile is up a seldom-used trail to the isolated peak, where we’ll both lose and catch our breath with a 360-degree view.
From our perch above it all we’ll see Sandstone Peak to the west, Simi Valley to the north, Ladyface and Mt Baldy to the east and the Channel Islands to the south and west.
This is a 8 mile out and back hike, with about 1200′ of elevation gain.
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.
Directions:
The parking area is off the north side of Encinal Canyon Road, almost directly across the street from the Camp 13 fire station & Rattle Snake Road. Park in the large dirt lot, which is free.
From the 101 Freeway, turn south on Kanan Rd. Continue 6.2 miles, then turn right onto Mulholland Hwy. After 0.9 miles, veer left onto Encinal Canyon Rd. Drive 2.4 miles to the parking area, on the right.
From the Pacific Coast Highway – From the PCH, turn up Encinal Canyon Road. Drive 5 miles, then turn right onto Encinal Cyn Rd. Continue 1.1 miles to the parking area, on the left.
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.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike; please have your friends join The Weekday Trailblazers, and register for the event.
Sorry, dogs are not allowed on State Park trails.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Biking - Temescal to Fishermans Village 20 or 30 miles.
2026-09-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Temescal Canyon Park, 15900 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA, 90272, US
This is a 20 or 30 mile (your choice) beach ride. We’ll start at Temescal Canyon and take the Marvin Braude bike trail south to Fishermans Village, with a small side trip to potentially see some very large boats. At this point, anyone wanting to do only 20 miles can relax with some coffee, ice cream or a snack. The 30 mile group will continue another 5 miles down the bike path and then start back. We’ll likely stop somewhere for a snack and a drink before retuning to our start point.
The route is all paved with a total gain of about 167 feet over 20 miles. So, it’s about as flat as a trail can be.
The only caveat to this one is that there always seems to be headwinds coming out of the Northwest during the last few miles.
Bring Along:

Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube and have tires inflated for road riding.

MEETUP LOCATION (<- Click) Well be at the small pavilion where Temescal Canyon intersects the bike path.
PARKING FEE: There is paid parking at Temescal and PCH and you can also park on Temescal Canyon for free and ride down to the starting point.
RESTROOMS: YES
DURATION: 4 HOURS
DISTANCE: 20 or 30 miles – you choose.
ROUTE: (<-click to see it)
Ride with GPS route
ELEVATION GAIN: 167′
PACE: 11-13 mph
TERRAIN: 20/30 miles of bike path and paved roads.
MY CELL# IS: 818-307-6460
PLEASE make sure your bike is in working order before attending.
DISCLAIMER & SAFETY NOTICE – Group Bike Ride
By participating in this ride—or any event organized by the “E Biking LA County and Beyond Meetup Group” —YOU (all riders, event attendees) voluntarily assume all risks associated with outdoor activity, including but not limited to injury, illness, equipment failure, road hazards, weather and possible vehicle/bike — bike/bike — accidents and/or death.
You agree to release the leaders, the organizer, from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising from participation.
The leaders for the “E Biking LA County and Beyond Meetup Group” are not a certified outdoor, fitness or biking guide, and you are solely responsible for your personal safety and preparedness.

API Test
2026-09-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Museum of Ventura County, 100 East Main Street, Ventura, CA, 93001, US
ignore this. Attend at your own risk 🙃

SANTA BARBARA LOOP
2026-09-03 08:00 - 12:30 | San Buenaventura State Beach, San Pedro Street and Pierpont Boulevard, Ventura, 93003, CA, US
Now that the weather is cooling down a bit, let’s get a ride in the hills above Santa Barbara which takes us through it’s beautiful homes and estates. The ride will be early enough to beat the higher temps later in the day. After the ride, as an option, we’ll drive over to the Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch for lunch.
Make sure you have slime in your innertubes or tires.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Park on the street at 2598 Las Encinas Rd. at 8:00 am.
PARKING FEE: None
ROUTE
DISTANCE: 21 miles.
ELEVATION GAIN: 2800′
DEBRIEFING: After the bike ride, as an option, we can stop at The Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch for lunch.
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest biker in the group
DURATION: 5 hours
LEVEL: Easy intermediate
TERRAIN: Paved hilly streets
RESTROOMS: Near the beginning, end and during the bike ride.
MY CELL # IS: 805-358-5972

Sherwood Sentinals Overview - Gentler with Single Tracks
2026-09-03 08:30 - 11:00 | CAMBERWELL AND MARGATE PLACE, CAMBERWELL AND MARGATE PLACE, Thousand Oaks, CA, US
This hike starts at the corner of Potrero and Westlake Boulevard, and immediately crosses over into the Three Springs area over an empty streambed, past some old car parts and bug traps! We’ll climb up a single-track to a volcanic boulder-strewn ridgeline offering views of both Lake Eleanor and the Las Virgenes Reservoir. We will traverse three hills of a roller-coaster like landscape until we get to the soundwall behind the houses at Denver Springs Drive, where we’ll turn around and, avoiding the roller coaster climbs, make our way back. On the way, we’ll descend to Hillsbury Road and the “official” South Shore Open Space trailhead, in case you’re interested in coming back and revisiting this area without crossing a streambed.
I’ll talk a little about the short- and longer-term history of the area, not so much to interrupt the hike, but enough to amuse, hopefully.
This is a 4+ mile more-or-less out and back hike, with about 750′ of elevation gain.
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.
Directions:
Exit 101 at Westlake Boulevard and head south to Potrero. Turn right onto Potrero, then in on Camberwell. Park along Camberwell and Margate Place, away from people parked for Westlake Elementary School, and walk to the corner of Westlake and Potrero, nearby.
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.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike; please have your friends join The Weekday Trailblazers, and register for the event.
Sorry, dogs are not allowed on State Park trails.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Mt. Baldy via ski hut trail loop (day hike)
2026-09-04 07:00 - 14:00 | San Buenaventura State Beach, San Pedro Street and Pierpont Boulevard, Ventura, 93003, CA, US

Vasquez Rocks Extended Loop via PCT
2026-09-05 08:00 - 10:00 | Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, 10700 Escondido Canyon Road, Agua Dulce, CA, 91350, US
Join us for a scenic hike through Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center in Agua Dulce. This moderate loop combines the park’s dramatic rock formations, high-desert scenery, and a section of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail.
Distance: Approximately 3.3–3.4 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 500–600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Hiking Time: 1.5–2 hours, depending on group pace and stops
Trail Type: Loop
Terrain: Dirt trail, sandy areas, uneven and rocky sections, and moderate climbs/descents
Shade: Very limited
The hike winds through one of Southern California’s most distinctive landscapes, surrounded by massive, sharply angled rock formations created by millions of years of geologic activity. Vasquez Rocks is also the ancestral Tataviam village of Mapipinga and has a rich cultural history.
Our route incorporates a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) before continuing through the network of trails within Vasquez Rocks. Expect rolling climbs and descents, sweeping views of the Soledad Basin, desert vegetation, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy and photograph the famous rock formations. LA County describes the comparable PCT/Apwinga loop as a moderate 3.4-mile hike with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain.
What to Expect
This is a moderate hike appropriate for hikers who are comfortable walking several miles over uneven terrain and handling moderate elevation changes. The trail is highly exposed, so sun and heat can significantly increase the difficulty. There is very little natural shade along the route.
Bring: Plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, hat, sunglasses, snacks, and any personal medications you may need.
Wildlife: This is rattlesnake habitat. Stay alert, watch where you step or place your hands, and give all wildlife plenty of space. Dogs should remain leashed.
Highlights

Iconic Vasquez Rocks formations
Hiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail
Panoramic high-desert and Soledad Basin views
Fascinating geology and cultural history
Native desert plants and seasonal wildflowers
Excellent photography opportunities
A fun moderate loop without committing to an all-day hike

Trailhead: Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, 10700 Escondido Canyon Road, Agua Dulce, CA. The park has an interpretive center, picnic areas, trails and restrooms/facilities; drinking water at the Interpretive Center is available during its business hours.
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 2, Beginner/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 THC Hike rating scale of one to five assuming a moderate pace (~2.5 mph)?
THC HIKE RANKING SCALE:

Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1,000-2,000 feet elevation gain.
Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3,000 feet elevation gain.
Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3,000 feet or more elevation gain.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing The Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Hiking Club (THC) Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders, and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any The Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing The Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.

(Tentative) White Mountain car camping and day hike
2026-09-11 14:00 - 2026-09-13 14:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US

Cucamonga peak 💯✌️
2026-09-12 06:00 - 21:05 | Online event
Cucamonga Peak is a challenging summit in the San Gabriel Mountains, California, known for its strenuous hike, typically accessed via the Icehouse Canyon

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #1 – Will Rogers to Skull Rock
2026-09-12 07:30 - 15:00 | Skull Rock Trailhead – Topanga State Park, Pacific Palisades, CA, 90272, US
Come join the Wilderness Adventures Section as we hike the entire Santa Monica Mountains Backbone Trail (67 miles) in eight hikes over four Saturday Sunday weekends. All outings will be one-way shuttle hikes. Our first 2026 Backbone Trail outing will be 10 miles with 2600 elevation gain on the BBT from the start at Will Rogers Park. We will first hike up the Rivas Trail and then take the High Ridge Trail over Goat Peak and past Temescal Peak. Then we will leave the BBT taking the Temescal Ridge Trail for 3 miles to our car shuttle point at the Skull Rock Trailhead. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
We will meet initially at 7:30 AM at the Skull Rock Trailhead near the corner of Via Las Palmas and Via La Costa in Pacific Palisades. From PCH take Sunset then left on Palisades Drive, drive 3.5 miles then continue onto Chastain Parkway going 0.5 miles to a right on Via Las Palmas past a small traffic circle and then left into the trailhead parking area. From the Skull Rock trailhead, we will car shuttle 8 miles down Palisades Drive and then across Sunset Boulevard to the start at Will Rogers State Park. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #2 – Skull Rock to Trippet Ranch
2026-09-13 07:30 - 14:00 | Trippett Ranch, 20829 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA, 90290, US
Our second Fall 2026 Wilderness Adventures Section Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be 8 miles on the BBT with 1000 elevation gain from Temescal Ridge to Trippet Ranch. We will start at the Skull Rock Trailhead taking the Temescal Ridge Trail for 3 miles to pick up the Backbone Trail. We will than take the BBT past Hub and Eagle Junctions to Musch Camp. We will then take the Musch Trail finishing at Trippet State Park, our car shuttle point. The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
Meet at Trippet Ranch parking lot at 7:30 AM. Take PCH to Topanga Canyon Boulevard, North 4 miles to Entrada Road, 1 mile, 2 left turns to lot; or 7 mi S of 101/Ventura Freeway on Topanga Canyon Boulevard to Entrada Road). Park free on Entrada Road and walk in or in lot (fee, or free with appropriate parking permit including state parking pass obtainable from your local library). From the meeting point at Trippet Ranch, we will car shuttle 12 miles down Topanga Canyon Boulevard to PCH and then up Palisades Park to the Skull Rock Trailhead. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

CARMEL VALLEY BACK ROAD
2026-09-14 16:30 - 19:30 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US
This is the first ride of a four day road trip near the central California coast which will take place Sept. 14th – 17th. You can sign up for all of them or whichever ones you choose to.
FIRST RIDE – CARMEL VALLEY BACK ROAD
After checking into a hotel in the Monterey area, we will meet near the beginning of a secluded, narrow and winding back road in Carmel Valley. The photo shows what the paved road looks like.
Make sure that you have a head light and tail light, as well as having your tires or inner tubes filled with slime to help avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: 28010-28018 Robinson Cyn Rd, Carmel at 4:30pm.
RESTROOMS: No
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
TERRAIN: A secluded, narrow, winding paved road
DISTANCE: Up to 18 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: Up to 2400′
DURATION: 3 hours
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Easy intermediate
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

MONTERY PENINSULA - 17 MILE DRIVE +
2026-09-15 10:00 - 15:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US
This is the second ride of a four day road trip near the central California coast which will take place Sept. 14th – 17th. You can sign up for all of them or whichever ones you choose to.
SECOND RIDE – MONTEREY PENINSULA – 17 MILE DRIVE +
This scenic coastal ride on the Monterey Peninsula is one of the best in California, The photo shows what to expect to see during the ride.
Make sure that you have a head light and tail light, as well as having your tires or inner tubes filled with slime to help avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: 49-1 Beach Way, Monterey at 10:00am.
RESTROOMS: Yes
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
TERRAIN: A scenic paved road that follows the Monterey Peninsula coastline for the most part. After that we’ll follow several paved roads back to the cars.
DISTANCE: 33 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: Up to 2000′
DURATION: 5+ hours
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Easy intermediate
DEBRIEFING: Near the end of the ride we can stop for a late lunch at the London Bridge Pub.
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

THE OLD COAST ROAD BY THE BIXBY BRIDGE
2026-09-16 09:00 - 15:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US
This is the third ride of a four day road trip near the central California coast which will take place Sept. 14th – 17th. You can sign up for all of them or whichever ones you choose to.
THIRD RIDE – OLD COAST ROAD BY THE BIXBY BRIDGE
This scenic coastal ride just above Big Sur is one of the best in California. We’ll be doing a loop on this ride starting out on Hwy 1 just south of the Bixby Bridge. The ride starts out with beautiful coastal scenery as we make our way down the coast. Once we arrive at the Old Coast Road, we’ll head into the hills on a well maintained dirt road that’ll offer awesome views of the coastline below. Further along this old road, we’ll be dropping into a forest of Redwood trees along Sierra Creek as we make our way down to The Bixby Bridge on the coast.
Make sure that you have a head light and tail light, as well as having your tires or inner tubes filled with slime to help avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: at 9:00am.
RESTROOMS: 9 miles into the ride at Andrew Molera State Park
ROUTE This will be our planned route.
TERRAIN: A very scenic 9 mile paved road and a 10 mile well groomed dirt road.
DISTANCE: 19 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: Up to 3000′
DURATION: 6 hours
THE PACE: 6 MPH on up.
LEVEL: Intermediate
DEBRIEFING: After the ride, we can stop for a late lunch at the
Nepenthe Restaurant, a little slice of paradise which sits high above the Pacific in the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains.
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972

A Game Night that leads to Backpacking Trips!
2026-09-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Sports Basement, Kalama River Avenue 10800, Fountain Valley, CA, 92708, United States
You’ve seen the beautiful hikes, waterfalls, the lakes, the forests, and all the breathtaking IG Reels. You want in, but don’t know how to get started?
Come meet WTC instructors and alumni. This will be a fun session designed as a game night allowing you to find out what the course includes, pricing, needed gear, and more.
The Wilderness Travel Course, a unique and fun, affordable, challenging, and engaging course that can change your life.
Students who complete the course have priority participation on backpacking trips lead by WTC instructors. Leadership opportunities and training are also available for those interested in continuing the WTC life.
Bring friends, bring questions, and let’s live on the Wilderness side!

⛏️Gold Dust & Pine Rust: Big Horn Mine & Vincent’s Cabin Loop
2026-09-17 09:00 - 12:00 | Vincent Gap, Vincent Gap, Angeles National Forest, CA, US
Join us for a classic San Gabriel Mountains adventure that pairs high-elevation alpine views with rich Southern California mining history!
📅HISTORY OF THE AREA
This trail traces the steps of Charles “Tom” Vincent, a Civil War veteran and hunter who lived in solitary self-reliance in these mountains starting in the 1860s. In 1895, while tracking a bighorn sheep along the steep crags of Mount Baden-Powell, Vincent spotted quartz veins gleaming with gold. His discovery sparked the creation of the Big Horn Mine. Tens of thousands of dollars in gold were extracted over the following decades, leaving behind fascinating historic structures hidden high above the canyon floor.
👁️HIKE OVERVIEW & VIEWS
We’ll tackle this hike as a ~4-mile loop (with roughly 1,000 feet of total ascent) combining dense timbered gulches, historic artifacts, and sweeping canyon vistas.

Vincent’s Cabin: Starting at Vincent Gap (~6,600 ft elevation), we drop down the forested Vincent Gulch Trail into a shaded ravine lined with towering Jeffrey pines, sugar pines, and white firs. Hidden in the trees sits Vincent’s remarkably preserved 19th-century log cabin.
The Connector & Mine Road: From the cabin, we climb a short, steep connector trail that ascends through pine duff to join Big Horn Mine Road. As we head along this wide shelf carved into the cliff face, the canopy opens up to dramatic, sweeping views overlooking Mine Gulch, the East Fork San Gabriel River gorge, and the rugged wilderness of the Sheep Mountain area.
The Stamp Mill Ruins: The highlight of the route is the massive, weathered wooden stamp mill clinging to the mountainside. Here, we can admire the historic timber framework and catch the chilly draft flowing from the gated mine portal.
Flora & Fauna: Along the trail, keep an eye out for high-country wildlife—including Nelson’s bighorn sheep perched on the rocky ledges, mule deer, and Steller’s jays—and don’t forget to catch the butterscotch-vanilla scent of the Jeffrey pine bark along the ridge!

🚶‍➡️TRAIL DETAILS

Distance: ~4 miles round-trip (Lollipop)
Total Ascent: ~1,000 feet
Difficulty: Medium due to terrain. See the HWD Rating Guide.
What to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, 2+ liters of water, snacks/lunch, sun protection, and a camera for the mountain vistas!

🚗DIRECTIONS
On Angeles Crest Hwy park at the Vincent Gap Parking lot. No pass is needed. Parking is free for us
⚠️Angeles Crest Hwy (Hwy 2) is closed in some areas. There is no access from La Canada or Azuza. Consult Google Maps for best directions from your location.

AVILA BEACH - SEE CANYON ROAD
2026-09-17 10:00 - 17:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US
This is the fourth ride of a four day road trip near the central California coast which will take place Sept. 14th – 17th. You can sign up for all of them or whichever ones you choose to.
FOURTH RIDE – AVILA BEACH – SEE CANYON ROAD
This event has us riding on the back roads of Avila Beach as we head inland on a beautiful, quiet, shady and narrow road towards San Luis Obispo. We’ll start-off on the Bob Jones Trail. Near the midpoint of our ride we’ll have an awesome view as we look down to Morro Bay and Morro Rock.
On our route back, we’ll first stop at See Canyon Fruit Ranch for a glass of cold apple cidar before heading a bit further to the Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards to have a glass of their hard cidar wine. Once we reach Avila Beach, we’ll have lunch at Mulligan’s Bar & Grill with an ocean view before finishing the ride along the coast back to our cars.
OPTION ONE: After returning to the cars, we’ll first head over to the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort for a one hour hot tub soak.
OPTION TWO: Drive to The Avila Valley Barn. At this delightfully rustic destination, you’ll find the freshest fruits and vegetable grown locally, as well as a chance to hang out with goats, sheep and other farm animals. Enjoy locally made ice-cream, baked good, jam, flowers and more.
In the evening,
Make sure that you have a head light and tail light, as well as having your tires or inner tubes filled with slime to help avoid flats.
MEETUP LOCATION: 7009 Ontario Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
ALL TRAILS ROUTE
RIDE WITH GPS ROUTE
DISTANCE: 27 miles or the optional 31 mile version which takes us along the coast and a sea cave with an additional 200′ of elevation gain.
ELEVATION GAIN: 2700′
LUNCH: Once we reach Avila Beach, near the end of our ride, we’ll have lunch at Mulligans Bar & Grill with an ocean view.
THE PACE: No faster than the slowest in the group.
DURATION: 4+ hours or all day.
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner E Biker.
TERRAIN: Winding, scenic and narrow paved roads.
RESTROOMS: At the meetup parking lot, Avila Beach and end of ride.
Disclaimer & Safety Notice
By participating in this ride – or any event I organize, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with outdoor activity, including but not limited to injury, illness, equipment failure, road hazards, weather and possible vehicle/bike – bike/bike accidents.
You agree to release me, the organizer, from any and all liability, claims, or demands arising from participation. I am not a certified outdoor, fitness or biking guide, and you are solely responsible for your personal safety and preparedness.

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #3 – Trippet Ranch to Lois Ewen Overlook
2026-09-19 07:30 - 13:00 | Lois Ewen Overlook, 23300-23398 Saddle Peak Road, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
Our third Wilderness Adventures Section Fall 2026 Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be 8 miles with 2000 elevation gain on the BBT from Topanga Canyon to the Lois Ewen Overlook. We will hike from Trippet Ranch to behind Topanga Canyon School passing across Old Topanga Canyon Road to take Hondo Canyon and then the Fossil Ridge Trail to the Lois Ewen Overlook. We will end with a short jaunt off the Backbone Trail for views at the Topanga Lookout.The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
Meet at the Lois Ewen Overlook at 7:30 AM at the intersection of Stunt, Saddle Peak, and Scheuren Roads. From the meeting point at the Lois Ewen Overlook, we will car shuttle 7 miles across Saddle Peak Road and Tuna Canyon Road to the start point at the Trippet Ranch off Topanga Boulevard. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

Emigrant Wilderness (6 days)
2026-09-19 19:00 - 2026-09-25 21:00 | Bakersfield Sports Village, 9001 Ashe Road,, Bakersfield, CA, 93313, US

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #4 – Lois Ewen Overlook to Malibu Creek Backbone
2026-09-20 07:30 - 13:00 | Backbone Trailhead, Malibu Creek State Park, 700 Malibu Canyon Rd, Woodland Hills, CA, 91302, US
Our fourth Wilderness Adventures Section Fall 2026 Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be 7 miles with 600 elevation gain on the BBT going from Lois Ewen Overlook to Tapia Park. The hike will climb past Saddle Peak and then descend along the Saddle Peak Trail crossing Piuma Road to the Piuma Ridge Trail back to the start. The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
Meet at the Backbone Trailhead, Malibu Creek State Park parking lot at 7:30 AM. From PCH go north on Malibu Canyon Road for 8 miles after the tunnel to the dirt lot on the left or from the 101 go south on Las Virgenes for 5 miles past Piuma Road to the dirt lot on the right before the tunnel. From the meeting point at the Malibu Creek State Park Backbone Trailhead we will car shuttle 8 miles on Stunt Road to the start point at Lois Ewen Overlook. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

Banff Film Fest Screening at OCC
2026-09-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Robert B. Moore Theater Orange Coast College, 2701, Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626, US
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 2026 is an international film festival that brings the best adventure and outdoor films to audiences around the world.
Friends of the Library at Orange Coast College host this event twice a year in the Robert Moore Theatre. Raffle prizes are donated by sponsors of the films.
You can buy tickets at the door for $20 or in advance for $17 by using this link.
Watch the Trailer
Free parking is included, concessions sold at the event in case you need snacks or drinks. Some books are available for sale too.

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #5 - Malibu Creek to Latigo Canyon
2026-09-26 07:30 - 15:00 | Latigo Canyon Trailhead, Latigo Canyon Road & Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US
Our fifth Wilderness Adventures Section Fall 2026 Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be l0 miles with 2800 elevation gain on the BBT going from the Malibu Creek area to the Latigo Canyon Trailhead. We will take the Mesa Peak Trail though the upper Corral and Solstice Canyon areas.The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
We will meet at 7:30 AM at the Backbone Trail at Latigo Canyon Trailhead on Latigo Canyon Road, from PCH go north 7 miles on Latigo Canyon Road to a dirt lot on the right side or from the 101 go 7 miles south on Kanan Dume to a left on Latigo Canyon Road then 3 miles to the dirt lot now on your left. From the meeting point at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead we will car shuttle 14 miles to the start point at the Malibu Creek State Park Backbone Trailhead near Piuma and Las Virgenes. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #6 – Latigo Canyon to Encinal Canyon
2026-09-27 07:30 - 14:00 | Encinal Canyon Trailhead, Encinal Canyon Road & Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US
Our sixth Wilderness Adventures Section Fall 2026 Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be 8 miles with 1300′ gain on the BBT through Newton, Zuma, and Trancas Canyons. We will start at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead taking the Backbone Trail across Kanan Road then taking the Zuma Canyon Trail over to Encinal Canyon.The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
We will meet at 7:30 AM at the Backbone Trail at Encinal Canyon Trailhead. From PCH go 6 miles north on Kanan Dume Road to Mulholland Hwy then west 3 miles on Encinal Canyon Road to shoulder parking on north side of road just east of Fire Camp #13.From the meeting point at the Encinal Canyon Trailhead we will car shuttle 7 miles to the start point at the Latigo Canyon Trailhead. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

UTAH: Death Hollow (34 Miles RT)
2026-10-02 07:00 - 2026-10-04 09:00 | Conejo Creek Park, 1379 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, US

Convict Lake bp
2026-10-02 08:00 - 2026-10-04 12:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #7 - Encinal Canyon to Mishe Mokwa
2026-10-03 07:30 - 14:00 | Mishe Mokwa Trailhead, Yerba Buena & Backbone Trail, Calabassas, CA, US
Our seventh Wilderness Adventures Section Fall Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be 10 miles with 1400 elevation gain on the BBT. We will take the Etz Meloy Trail starting at the Encinal Canyon trailhead. We will cross the Mulholland Highway and then take the Etz Moloy Trail, with views of Triunfo Pass and the Boney Mountains, to end at the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead.The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
We will meet at 7:30 AM at the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead. From the Pacific Coast Highway go north 7 miles on Yerba Buena Road to the Mishe Mokwa trailhead parking area on the right, one mile east of Circle X Ranch. From the 101 exit at Kanan Road. Go west 7 miles making a right on Mulholland Highway. In one mile keep straight on Encinal Canyon. Then go 3.5 miles to a right on Lechusa, then turn immediately right going north on Decker Ave (CA-23). After 0.8 miles make a left on Mulholland Highway and then 0.4 miles to a right on Little Sycamore Canyon Road. Take Little Sycamore Canyon 4 miles to the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead. From the meeting point at the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead we will car shuttle 7 miles via Little Sycamore Canyon and Decker Roads to Encinal Canyon Trailhead. Carpools are encouraged.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

FALL BACKBONE TRAIL 2026 #8 – Mishe Mokwa to La Jolla Canyon
2026-10-04 07:30 - 17:00 | Ray Miller Canyon Trailhead, pacific coast highway & la jolla canyon, malibu, CA, US
Our eighth and last Wilderness Adventures Section Fall Backbone Trail hike in the Santa Monica Mountains will be a 17 miles, 2100 gain BBT hike on the Sandstone Peak, Chamberlin, Blue Canyon, Wood Canyon, and Ray Miller Trails stopping at both Danielson Ranch and the Chamberlin Memorial before finishing at the La Jolla Campground. The outing will be a one-way shuttle hike. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
We will meet initially at 7:30 AM outside the La Jolla Campground on PCH just south of the entrance (Ray Miller Trailhead). From the PCH, the La Jolla Campground Parking Area is 4.9 miles northwest of Yerba Buena Road (Neptunve’s Net); or 4.2 miles southeast of Las Posas Road. Go past the yellow gate into the parking area or park for free along the shoulder (on the east side of PCH).From La Jolla Canyon, we will car shuttle 17 miles up the long and winding Yerba Buena to the Mishe Mokwa trailhead. Carpools are encouraged. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude.
This is a Front Country hike. A medical form is recommended, but not required. If you have one, please carry it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well.

UTAH: Houseboat Exploration of Lake Powell
2026-10-05 08:00 - 2026-10-09 15:00 | Conejo Creek Park, 1379 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, US

Telescope Peak and your way to happiness
2026-10-08 05:00 - 2026-10-11 10:00 | Rancho Sierra-Vista/Satwiwa, Lynn Road and Via Goleta, Newbury Park, CA, US
