Tree of Life in the Verdugos
2021-04-14 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | La Tuna Trailhead, S La Tuna Canyon Rd, Sun Valley, CA, 91352, US
*** YOU MUST BRING A FACE COVERING to meet up at the trailhead and to use on trail when it is not possible to avoid close proximity to other hikers. Please be mindful of other people’s space. DO NOT APPROACH ANYONE WITHOUT YOUR FACE COVERING.
*** Hike is waitlisted. For the time being, you must have hiked with us previously. Put yourself on the list and I will add you if I feel you can complete the hike at the group’s pace safely. Limiting the total number of attendees. Apologies for not being able to add everyone but safety is the main priority right now.
The trail starts out steep and doesn’t offer much of a break for the first mile or so. This is not a conditioning hike and we won’t be in a hurry to reach our destination (but NOT a beginner hike either). Bring warm layers since we will be stopping for breaks and to wait for the last hiker. Poles will be helpful. Bring a headlamp.
THE PLAN
We’ll take a VERY steep trail up to the Tree of Life, make our way over to Verdugo Peak for a short snack break, then head back down the fireroad.
STATS (est.)
Distance: 6 miles-ish
Elevation Gain: <2000 ft.
Rating: 6/10, NOT for beginners!
Trail: Single Track, Fire Break, Fire Road – very, very steep uphill sections.
Directions: The La Tuna Trailhead is located just off the 210 fwy. Exit La Tuna Canyon Road and park across the street from Southland Nursery. Pay attention to parking signs. Meet at the forest gate.
Parking is free on La Tuna or in the dirt lot between the forest gate and the on-ramp to the 210.
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The Fine Print
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
The Farzan Rule: Posted hike times are the time the hike starts or we leave from a posted shuttle location. I’m aware other Meetup groups offer a grace period for late arrivals; we don’t. It’s your responsibility to know the location of the meeting spot and be there and ready to participate at the posted time. If you have any concerns about the directions feel free to contact the organizer of the event, preferably in advance of the event and not at the start time. I’m of the opinion that it’s not fair to delay an event when the majority of attendees have arrived on-time. (so named after a conversation I had with a certain un-named member)
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The VHC Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

Beartrap Bluff
2021-04-15 07:15 - 17:00 | Flying J Travel Center, 42810 Frazier Mountain Rd, Lebec, CA, 93243, US
This may be the newest peak on the Sierra Club Angeles Chapter’s Hundred Peaks list added in January 2014 by the Hundred Peaks’ legendary exploratory couple: Peter and Ignacia Doggett. Relatively few have done this peak so far, and guaranteed to be one of your favorite peaks/hikes. It is located above the southern edge of Lockwood Valley just below Reyes Peak in the Los Padres National Forest.
The first five miles will be trail; however, to access the peak, one has to traverse a large steep rock slab or through a dry gully that gains elevation quickly. There is a year-round stream (Beartrap Creek) at the bottom of the rock slab that we will have to cross.
After we leave the gully and rock slab, there is a poor use-trail with cross country hiking to get to the rock outcroppings that overlook the badlands of Lockwood Valley. One other highlight is that we will pass a giant, unusual oak tree along the trail.
Distance: 12 miles round trip.
Elevation Gain: 3,800 feet total with 3.000 feet to the peak and 800 feet for the return. The peak’s elevation is 6,150 feet.
Pace: 2 to 2.2 mph on the trail; much slower when going up and down the peak.
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous depending on one’s conditioning.
Minimum Level: Intermediate hiker.
What to bring: Minimum 3 liters of water, food for lunch and snacks, and layers of clothes for changing temperatures and elevation.
Meeting Time and Place: 7:15 am at the Flying J Travel Center at Frazier Mountain Park Road just off I-5 in Lebec. Park in the adjacent northeast section of Motel 6’s parking lot. There will still be a one hour drive to the trailhead, which is at Reyes Creek Station off of Lockwood Valley Road. Adventure Pass or National Park Pass may be needed for vehicles parked at the trailhead. Please bring if you have one.
Earlier Meeting Time and Place: 6 am at corner of Leonora St and Ponce Av in Woodland Hills. No host will be there, so participants will have to arrange their carpooling. Please be willing to drive and have a full tank of fuel. Riders please be willing to share in the cost of the fuel.
Directions to the Lebec Meeting Place from Woodland Hills: Take the US-101 East/South, I-405 North, and I-5 North all the way through the Santa Clarita Valley. Go up the grade and continue to Frazier Mountain Park Road (Exit 205). Make a left turn and go just past the freeway to Flying J Travel Center on the left side of the road.
Optional dinner afterwards at the Mexican Restaurant in Lebec.

Simi Peak Trail
2021-04-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Lindero Canyon Road, Lindero Canyon Rd, California, CA, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/simi-peak-trail?u=i
Hello Fellow Hikers….Hiking Simi Peak in the Santa Monica Mountains from Oak Park. This route is less miles to the peak with a good amount of elevation gain. Meaning this is a good workout without feeling like you have over done it.. ; ) Once on the peak your rewarded with a flag and two peak markers as well as beautiful views. We will be following the AllTrails map from the start to the end. I’ve provided the AllTrails link for Directions, stats and photos…..
Trail out and backMiles 5.3Elevation gain 1486Rated hard (more moderate with the last section being steep)Dogs are allowed but must be able to handle a hard rated trail
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials you’ll need for a hike
And last….The Organizer, Assistant Organizer and Event host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guess

Mt. Lukens from Hoyt Mountain Trail
2021-04-17 07:00 - 13:00
Distance: ~14 milesElevation gain: ~2,400 feetLevel: ModerateType: Out and BackTrail Type: some single track and fire roadRoute: Hoyt Mountain Road to Grizzly Flat Trail to Haines Canyon Motorway to Mount Lukens Truck Trail and back.What to Bring: 3+ liters of water, food for snacks/lunch, hat for sun protection. (optional: hiking poles and bug repellent)
This is a gentle though lengthy hike. I did this hike last May when the spring flowers were in full bloom and Grizzly Flats was absolutely lovely. Trail is partially shaded with some single track trail, some overgrown fire road and some fully exposed fire road as you approach the summit. It is likely that poodle dog bush will be thriving as well as poison oak, so be advised. Some people are highly allergic to these plants and there are places along the trail that are overgrown with vegetation and you may not be able to avoid contact.
NOT FOR BEGINNERS due to distance.
Parking: on the North side of Angeles Crest Highway at a small unmarked turnout near mile marker 30.60. Trail is approximately 2.4 miles beyond the Angeles Crest Fire Station.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Angeles+Crest+Hwy+%26+Hoyt+Mtn+Rd,+California+91042/@34.260339,-118.1943819,17z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x80c2e968cef4a887:0x6627ca97b379d374!2sAngeles+Crest+Hwy+%26+Hoyt+Mtn+Rd,+California+91042!3b1!8m2!3d34.2603268!4d-118.1921819!3m4!1s0x80c2e968cef4a887:0x6627ca97b379d374!8m2!3d34.2603268!4d-118.1921819
Directions: From the 210 freeway, take the Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) exit and head north for 6.2 miles. A National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 for the year) is required for parking here.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends. As a courtesy and in keeping with Covid-19 safety protocols, hikers are expected to wear a mask if within 6 feet of another hiker.

Mount Lukens via Stone Canyon
2021-04-17 08:00 - 12:00 | Stone Canyon Trailhead, 2408 Stonyvale Rd, Tujunga, CA, 91042, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mount-lukens-via-stone-canyon
Okay this should be a good one…This is considered the most challenging route to Mount Lukens which is the tallest peak in Los Angeles. With mileage at 7.9 and elevation gain 3293 we will be doing more incline with less level sections. This is a excellent training hike with views all the way to the top. We will be following the AllTrails map so please see the link provided for directions, stats and photos…..
Trail out and backMileage 7.9Elevation gain 3292Rates hard (not recommended for beginners)Dogs are allowed but should be experienced with harder hike
We will follow Jim’s Golden Rules…1) Hike your own hike2) Please wait at every junction and split for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials needed for a hike.
And last… The Organizer, Assistant Organizer and Even Host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest….

Fish Canyon Narrows to Rogers Camp
2021-04-17 08:30 - 14:00 | Fish Canyon Narrows Trailhead, 37773 Templin Hwy, Castaic, CA, 91384, US
COVID precautions still apply. YOU MUST BRING A FACE COVERING to meet up at the trailhead and to use on trail when it is not possible to avoid close proximity to other hikers. Please be mindful of other people’s space. DO NOT APPROACH ANYONE WITHOUT YOUR FACE COVERING. This will be out and back so we’ll plan on spreading out on the trail.
Please read the write up – there will be stream crossings but water levels are probably low enough to keep your feet dry.
This write up is Don’s:
The Stats
Distance: <11 miles, moderate pace
Elevation Gain: 1100 ft
Rating 5/10
Trail: a bit of asphalt, single track trail, some rock hopping; out and back
Parking fee/pass: NO
The Plan
This elevation gain on such a long hike makes this an advanced beginner router if you’re willing to put forth a bit more effort. If some beginners decide to join us, it is an easy trail to follow if you decide to return to the cars. The further in we go the more potential for water crossings. The main canyon is almost 4 miles in from the start, but with minimal elevation gain, and is quite beautiful. Our final destination and lunch spot will be Rogers Trail Camp. Seemingly in the middle of “no-where” there are a couple of picnic tables, fire ring and even a short tunnel bored into the rock about 20 feet.
The fine print: I have no idea how much water is in the area!!!! It could make it a bit more challenging and hopefully a bit more fun. The chances that we’ll be going through water is about 99%, though not much deeper than a foot. Keep in mind the unavoidable water is not until the middle portion of the hike.
The area: Here, amid the arid-looking mountains north of Castaic Lake, Castaic Creek flows the better part of the year through a sinuous gorge flanked by picturesque sandstone outcrops. The creek is perfect for wading – shallow, slow-moving, and warmed by the sun. Fish Canyon Narrows: In the trenchlike confines of middle Fish Canyon, aridity and moisture stand side by side, separated by a matter of a few yards. Mountain mahogany, manzanita and other drought-resistant shrubs cling to the walls, while a shallow stream gurgles merrily past a line of oaks, sycamores, willows, and cottonwoods. It is almost as if a little slice of the Pacific Northwest was transplanted to Southern California.
And also. . . When we hike this area I’m always asked if the body of water we see to the south is Castaic Lake. Well, I looked it up and here’s what I found:
PUMPED STORAGE
Elderberry Forebay, a small reservoir separated from Castaic Lake by Elderberry Forebay Dam, is located at the upper end of Castaic Lake and provides regulatory storage for Castaic Power Plant. During on-peak hours when the value of energy is high, water from Pyramid Lake, located north of Castaic, flows 7.5 miles through the AngelesTunnel and the turbines of Castaic Power Plant to produce electricity. The water then enters Elderberry Forebay. During off-peak hours (nighttime and all day Sunday) when the cost of power is low, water stored in Elderberry Forebay is pumped back into Pyramid Lake. This type of hydroelectric plant operation is called pumped storage.
Directions:The trailhead is located off of the 5 freeway north of the City of Santa Clarita which is north of the San Fernando Valley. On the 5 freeway go about 6 miles north of Lake Hughes/Castaic and exit at Templin Hwy. Go right to the end of Templin Hwy (about 4 miles). There will be a barrier at the end of Templin; park here. There is also a road that goes to a DWP facility at the end of Templin; you do not need to go down this road.
Carpooling/Caravaning/Lunch Pick-Up: When I hike in this area I usually stop at a Starbuck’s in Valencia. In Valencia exit at Valencia Blvd off of the 5 fwy and go west. Turn right on The Old Road and meet in the Starbucks parking lot. We’ll need to leave the parking lot by 8:00 am. The address for you map challenged navigation folks is 26802 The Old Road, Santa Clarita 91381.
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The Fine Print
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
The Farzan Rule: Posted hike times are the time the hike starts or we leave from a posted shuttle location. I’m aware other Meetup groups offer a grace period for late arrivals; we don’t. It’s your responsibility to know the location of the meeting spot and be there and ready to participate at the posted time. If you have any concerns about the directions feel free to contact the organizer of the event, preferably in advance of the event and not at the start time. I’m of the opinion that it’s not fair to delay an event when the majority of attendees have arrived on-time. (so named after a conversation I had with a certain un-named member)
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The VHC Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

JONES AND HASTINGS PEAKS
2021-04-20 07:30 - 12:30
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO
Since we are living in the age of Covid, I am limiting this event to a max of 10 people due to social distancing.
THESE ARE THE RULES:1. ONLY people I have been hiking with during Covid will be moved to the going list.2. You must follow all safety guidelines regarding Covid. This means 6-ft social distancing, and wearing a mask.3. We hike as a group and will not leave anyone behind.
Let’s contnue to bag some peaks in the front range of the San Gabriel Mountains.
First up is Jones peak. Don’t let the height of this peak deceive you. In less than 3 miles, the elevation gain is over 2300′ ft. It’s a short but steep trail that will give you a workout from the start. Next, is Hastings peak which is an additional mile.
If time permits, we may bag a third peaklet close by.
Jones Peak 3375′Hastings Peak 4163′
Stats:Level-Strong intermediate/NO BEGINNERSDistance- 9 milesGain- 3000′ (approximate) Terrain- rocky, single track trailsRestrooms- at the trailhead Dogs- NOT ALLOWED ON THIS HIKEParking- small lot. Overflow parking across the street from Bailey Park
DIRECTIONS: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bailey+Canyon+Wilderness+Park/@34.1713436,-118.0618525,81m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x80c2dc6114229a49:0xd132eb66e8a3cb8e!8m2!3d34.1713392!4d-118.0615789
WHAT TO BRING: A POSITIVE ATTITUDE. snacks/energy bars/elecrolytes, at least 2 liters of water, Lug soles with good tread, poles if you like/have them. Hand sanitizer & mask.
My cell: 562 331 3793
CDH POLICY: Any member with two NO SHOWS on CDH events since will lose their membership with CDH. Members will not be allowed on this and future events until they have updated their CDH profile by answering the new questions as well as having a recognizable face photo of themselves. This update cannot be done via an app, an iPhone or any other type of a hand-held phone. It must be done on a computer.
COVID POLICY: We all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing during this event. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN YOU BEING EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.

Hiking 8 miles RT to Wildrose Peak in Death Valley Planning Stage
2021-04-23 07:00 - 14:00 | Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Death Valley, CA, 92328, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE ALLOWED TO ATTEND THIS EVENT, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO. USE THIS SITE FOR HELP:https://www.cwrhiking.com/changing-your-meetup-profile-photo/In addition you must have Messenger enabled so I can contact you for any updates.
PRELIMINARY!!!!!!! Date is not firm! Depends on roads, weather snow and the lockdown Wildrose Road to the Charcoal Kilns is 2 miles of gravel road. I also plan to hike Telescope Peak a couple of days later.
This is a “no host” hike. There will be no leader, sweep or otherwise. If you’re at the trailhead when we leave, and you want to hike together – great!
MEETUP LOCATION: SEE MAP FOR EXACT MEETUP LOCATION AND SITE BELOW:
INFO https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/wildrose-peak-trail?mobileMap=false&ref=sidebar-static-map&ref=sidebar-view-full-map
https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/wildrose-peak.htm
MEETUP TIME: 7am.MEETUP PARKING FEE: Fee to Enter in DVDISTANCE: 8.4+ miles RT GAIN: 2200′TRAIL DESCRIPTION: single track (unmarked)THE PACE: 1.5 mph average paceLEVEL: Intermediate and above
Length: 8.4 miles out and backTime: 6 hours round trip.Difficulty: DifficultElevation Gain: 2,200 ft (671m)Location: From CA-190 follow Emigrant Canyon Road past the Wildrose Campground to the parking area at the Charcoal Kilns. The final 2 miles is a maintained gravel surface typically passable in a sedan. 25 ft vehicle limit.Parking: 25 ft vehicle limit. Open gravel area.Closest Restroom: Vault toilet in parking area. No restroom along the trail
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD HAVE YOU EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.

Tapo Canyon Trail
2021-04-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Tapo Canyon Road, Tapo Canyon Rd, Simi Valley, CA, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail?u=i
Hello fellow hikers,Join me for a easier moderate hike on Tapo Canyon Trail in Simi Valley. This hike has a nice gradual walk until we start a gradual climb were we will start our loop. We should encounter wildflowers and mountain views. Our loop will drop down then we will continue until we start our climb back up. From there it will be all downhill and straight back to our cars. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, stats and photos….We will be following the AllTrails map from start to finish…https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail?u=i
Trail LoopMiles 4.3Rated ModerateDogs Allowed (thats mine in the photo at Tapo)
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials you’ll need for a hike
And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guess

BIKE RIDE TO OJAI - 31 MILE VERSION
2021-04-23 09:00 - 16:00 | Ventura Bike Depot, 239 West Main Street, Ventura, CA, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.BIKE RIDE TO “OJAI”
BIKE RIDE TO “OJAI” For some things in life, once a year just isn’t enough. We’re going back to Ojai for more biking fun. We’ll be taking the “Ojai Valley Trail” to get there. It truly is one of the most beautiful bike paths you’ll ever see. After about 16.5 miles, we’ll have lunch at one of the restaurants in Ojai. When its time to return to the starting point, it’s almost all downhill.
This description is for the 31 mile trip. There is also a 19 mile version of the trip which can be found here: https://www.meetup.com/calabasasdayhikers/events/277580877/The difference between this group and the other one is that we’ll be doing an additional 6 miles in each direction. Both groups will meet up at 10:00 a.m. in Foster Park.
This group will be leaving promptly at 9:10 am from Ventura. We won’t be waiting for anyone who is late. If you find yourself arriving late for whatever reason, please drive to the main meeting spot in Foster Park where both groups will be meeting at 10 am.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION: 239 West Main Street, Ventura (https://www.google.com/maps/place/239+W+Main+St,+Ventura,+CA+93001/@34.281763,-119.304416,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80e9ac8b7e173d5d:0xdfa3fceda2431b09) (<- click to open map)
MEETUP DIRECTIONS FROM 101:
How to get to there:->Take the California St exit from US-101 N->Drive to US-101 BUS- Turn right onto S California St-> Turn left at the 1st cross street onto US-101 BUS (E. Thompson Blvd-> Turn left to stay on US-101 BUS, (W Main Street) Destination will be on the right (239 West Main Street)
If you are a serious racer and get to Foster Park before 10, please meet with the rest of the group before continuing. They will be near the restrooms on the left of the bike path.
If you have trouble finding us, call my cell# (818-307-6460).
MEETUP DATE AND TIME: Sunday, April 23rd no later than 9:00 a.m.
MEETUP PARKING FEE: Free parking on the street
DISTANCE: 31 miles round trip
DURATION: 7 hours
ELEVATION GAIN: 726 feet
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: A paved two lane bike path on one of the best and most scenic bike paths in Southern California.
THE PACE: 9 MPH on up
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner on up
MY CELL # IS 818-307-6460
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event.

BIKE RIDE TO OJAI - The 19 mile version
2021-04-23 10:00 - 15:00 | Foster Park, 438 Casitas Vista Road, Ventura, CA, 93001, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
BIKE RIDE TO “OJAI”
For some things in life, once a year just isn’t enough. We’re going back to Ojai for more biking fun. We’ll be taking the “Ojai Valley Trail” to get there. It truly is one of the most beautiful bike paths you’ll ever see. After about 8.5 miles, we’ll have lunch at one of the restaurants in Ojai. When its time to return to the starting point, it’s almost all downhill.
This description is for the 19 mile trip. There is also a 31 mile version of the trip which can be found here:https://www.meetup.com/calabasasdayhikers/events/277581032/?isFirstPublish=true
The difference between this group and the other one is that we’ll be doing 6 less miles in each direction. Both groups will meet up at 10:00 a.m. in Foster Park.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: FOSTER PARK near the rest rooms along the bike path at 10:00 am. Rest rooms might still be closed due to Covid.
MEETUP DIRECTIONS FROM 101: If it’s open, there is parking in Foster Park on the west side where the 33 freeway ends, but there’s a fee for parking there. Instead, park under the freeway on Casitas Vista Rd. When northbound on the 33, take the N Ventura Ave exit (immediately before the freeway ends), turn right, and then right again almost immediately onto Casitas Vista. To get to Foster Park, continue another few hundred yards and turn right into the park.
If you have trouble finding us, call my cell# (805-358-5972).
MEETUP DATE AND TIME: Friday, April 23rd no later than 10:00 a.m.
MEETUP PARKING FEE: If it’s open, there is a parking fee at Foster Park ($4.00 or more) but you can park under the 33 freeway on Casitas Vista Rd. for free. That’s where I’ll park my Subaru Outback.
DISTANCE: 19 miles round trip
DURATION: 5 hours
ELEVATION GAIN: 500 feet
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: A paved two lane bike path on one of the best and most scenic bike paths in Southern California.
THE PACE: 9 MPH on up
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner on up
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event.

Hiking 12 miles RT to Telescope Peak in Death Valley Planning Stage
2021-04-24 07:00 - 21:00 | Mahogany Flat Campground, DEATH VALLEY, CA, 92328, US
PRELIMINARY!!!!!!! Date is not firm! Depends on roads, weather snow and the lockdown Wildrose Road to the Charcoal Kilns to Mahogany Flats The last part of road is dirt with ruts so a high clearance vehicle recommended Camping at Mahogany Flats a day or two beforeMEETUP LOCATION: Mahogany Flats Camp Ground Death Valley – SEE MAP FOR EXACT MEETUP LOCATION AND SITE BELOW:INFO https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/telescope-peak-trailMEETUP TIME: 7am.MEETUP PARKING FEE: Fee to Enter in DVDISTANCE: 12+ miles RT GAIN: 3300′TRAIL DESCRIPTION: single track (unmarked)THE PACE: 1.5 mph average paceLEVEL: Intermediate and above
NPS https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/telescope-peak.htmLength: 14 mile (22.5km) out and back, round tripTime: 7 hours round tripDifficulty: DifficultElevation Gain: 3,000 ft (914m)Location: The trail to Telescope Peak begins from Mahogany Flat Campground at the end of Upper Wildrose/ Emigrant Canyon Road. High clearance and 4×4 are recommended for the final 1.5 miles to the campground. The road is steep, rough, and narrow. Hikers with low-clearance vehicles should consider parking at the Charcoal Kilns and walking the road to the trailhead.Parking: 25 ft vehicle limit. Open gravel area.Closest Restroom: Vault toilet in parking area. No restroom along the trail, follow principle 3 of Leave No Trace (LNT).GPS Data: GPS data for the unmarked route is for supplemental purposes only. Take a map and compass when exploring the trail-less wilderness.https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/upload/Telescope-Peak.gpx
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD HAVE YOU EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.CDH POLICY: Members will not be allowed on this and future events until they have updated their CDH profile by answering the new questions as well as having a recognizable face photo of themselves. This update can not be done via an app on an i-phone or other type hand held phones. It must be done on a computer. If you find yourself removed from this event, it’s because you didn’t read and follow this policy. –We hike in as a group and hike out as a group

Mount McKinley via Gold Creek
2021-04-24 08:00 - 12:00 | Boulder Canyon Trail, Sylmar, CA, 91342, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mount-mckinley-via-gold-creek
Hello fellow Hikers…Okay got another little known trail in the western San Gabriel Mountains located in Sylmar/Sunland area called Mount McKinley. This trail is a moderate climb on a fireroad until we hit a turn off to start our climb towards the top. This is where the hard rating comes in. From here will encounter some overgrowth due to a less traveled trail but should be doable. So the first three to four miles should be a gradual climb with the last one to two miles being our workout. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, stats and photos….We will be following the AllTrails map from start to finish…
Trail out and backMiles 10.7Rated HardElevation gain 2988Dogs…Unsure as it doesn’t specify
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials you’ll need for a hike.
And last….The Organizer, Assistant Organizer and Event host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guess

Optional scenic/leisure hike in DVNP ***Planning Stages***
2021-04-24 08:00 - 13:00 | Death Valley National Park, United States, US
For those of you who are attending both hikes, you will have the option to do a short hike or rest. I will post something as we get closer to the dates our our DV weekend.

Secret Trail to Coquina Mine - Post-Hike Picnic - VIPs Only
2021-04-24 09:00 - 14:00 | Chivo Canyon – HWD, 5091 Westwood St, Simi Valley, 93063, United States
Scroll down to rsvp PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING WHENEVER POSSIBLE, ESPECIALLY AT TRAIL HEAD AND BREAK SPOTS. WEAR A MASK OR FACE COVERING WHENEVER SOCIAL DISTANCING IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL. IT IS MANDATORY THAT YOU BRING A FACE COVERING. BRING HAND SANITIZER IF YOU HAVE IT.
Details
As some of you know I have purchased an RV and will be integrating it into some of our hikes. As a practice run, I’ve rented a RV space at Tapo Canyon Campground and will be leading a VIP hike in that area. When we return we’ll have a potluck get-together by my RV at the campground (its a short drive/long walk from trail head). Highlights along the way include tar pits and artifacts from an old ranch
This will be an exploratory hike I’ve wanted to do for years: a shortcut to the Coquina Mine, aka the Steam Shovel in Chivo and Las Llajas Canyons.
Here is the big picture of what we will try to accomplish.
For those of you who have done my infamous Las Llajas – Chivo loop this is a familiar area. The yellow tracks are familiar trails we already use. The magenta line is where we will be doing some trail blazing. Aerial photos suggest there is a relatively clear path most of the way. (best viewed on a computer monitor)

Zooming in, it appears there has been some traffic along my proposed route, along with an alternate route.

If all goes according plan we will have blazed a trail that will take you to the Steam Shovel from Chivo Canyon (the usual way is via Las Llajas). Hopefully my fear of heights won’t get in the way
When we are done we’ll meet back at my rv for a post-hike picnic/party
HIKE IS ABOUT 8 MILES WITH ABOUT 2000 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED DIFFICULT DUE TO TERRAIN. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
Directions:
From the 118 take Yosemite Dr north toward the hills for 1.6 miles. As you round the bend you will pass the trailhead and the name of the street changes to Cottonwood Dr. Make a right on Westwood St and park at corner. Its a short walk back to the trailhead. Meet there at 9am

To get to Tapo Cyn Campground and the picnic, continue on Cottonwood to Tapo Cyn Rd and turn Right for 2 miles. Campground will be on left

RSVP Here
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PIRU CREEK!
2021-04-25 08:30 - 14:00 | Frenchmans Flat, California, CA, 91384, US
Waitlisted: Only adding those who I’ve hiked with on this trail before and those I’ve been hiking with during pandemic. Covid-19 guidelines apply.
* Piru Creek was my very first official hike with VHC, April 17, 2010!! when getting wet wasn’t avoidable, and still isn’t, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Poison Oaks: Yes!

Don’s 2010 write-up:
BOULDERING AND ROCK HOPPING = UNEVEN HIKING SURFACE
Distance 7 milesRating 5/10Bring Lunch
Piru Creek in the Los Padres National Forest rushes down the eastern flank of Pine Mountain in Ventura County, it’s captured behind the dam that forms Pyramid Lake in extreme northwestern Los Angeles County, and then exits below the dam through Piru Gorge and tumbles south to Lake Piru and, eventually, the Santa Clara River in Ventura County. If we were to hike to Lake Piru it would be 14 miles. We’re going to hike from Frenchman’s Flat, working our way down the cottonwood and willow fringed banks.
The creek slips over water-worn boulders, some the size of cars, and collects in silt-bottomed pools. The seamed and shattered walls down the length of the gorge, up to 500 feet high, disclose at least five distinct changes in the bedrock as you travel downstream. These rocks reflect a variety of ages, from older than 600 million years (Precambrian metamorphic rocks) to tens of millions of years old (Eocene sedimentary rocks). Several faults cross the route, including the northernmost end of the San Gabriel Fault. Elevation gain and loss is less than 700 feet for this one.
There IS some bouldering, but mostly rock hopping. I’ve decided to use rafting terms to give a better description. This hike has Class I rock hopping and a few Class II’s, but is nothing like Santa Paula Creek or Bridge to Nowhere. Of course each time we try and go in a bit further and ya never know what we’ll come across. Good luck staying dry.
This is an out and back route along a trail that is hard to follow at times. Walking poles might be helpful in some areas and you might also want to wear pants as there will be some areas of the trail that are overgrown. If it’s hot and you want to take a dip, BRING OR WEAR A BATHING SUIT.
PARKING PASS REQUIRED As with all National Forest Land a parking pass is required and can be purchased at Sport Chalet, Big 5 and other places. $5/day or $30/yr. You will get a ticket here.

Directions: On the 5 freeway go about 6 miles north of Lake Hughes/Castaic and exit at Templin Hwy. Go left, under the freeway and turn right at the end on what Mapquest calls the Golden State Hwy. Take this to the end, this is Frenchman’s Flat.
Carpool/Caravan: Valencia Starbucks. From the 5 Fwy in Valencia, exit at Valencia Blvd and go west. Turn right on The old Road. Be there in time and ready to leave by 8:00 am . The address is 26850 The Old Road, Valencia, 91381.

PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for snakes, ticks, POs, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fawna all while carrying on a conversation with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun. Well behaved dogs are welcome on this one, but need to be picked up after.
1 – A walk2 – A longer walk3 – 3 mile hike w/little elevation gain4 – 5+ mile hike w/500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)5 – 5+ mile hike w/1000 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)6 – 7+ mile hike w/1000 ft. elevation gain7 – 7+ mile hike w/1500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to do CPR)8 – 5+ mile hike w/2000 ft. elevation gain (a great feeling of accomplishment when done)9 – use your imagination10 – I don’t lead or do these. DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY: I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends. Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Valencia Hiking Meetup Group and it’s organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Valencia Hikers Meetup events, you are releasing the Valencia Hikers Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

🌻🌸🌼MALIBU CREEK STATE PARK / MALIBU SEAFOOD / BEACH SUNSET &FULL MOON 🌸🌼🌻
2021-04-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
🌸🌼🌻🌺
YAAAYYYYY!!!!!!! MISSED Y’ALL!!!! 🌼🌻 Hope everyone’s safe, healthy and relatively SANE!!! 🌼🌻
HIKE / DINNER / FULL MOON AT THE BEACH!!
THIS is where they filmed M*A*S*H*, “Planet of the Apes” and a gazillion other movies…
GOOGLE MAPS TO MALIBU CREEK PARK CLICK HERE https://goo.gl/maps/SZVdsQem2eK2

CLICK HERE FOR M*A*S*H* VIDEO
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICiFnQrHOrk
🌼🌻 MALIBU CREEK STATE PARK 🌼🌻
( FEE AREA – it was $12 last time I was there, or get there 10 minutes earlier to park on the corner of Mulholland and Las Virgenes / Malibu Canyon for FREE )
( 40 minute drive from Santa Monica )
We’ll be hiking 4 1/2 miles ROUND-TRIP to the M*A*S*H* filming site. Slight elevation gain. GREAT FOR BEGINNERS!!!
FOOD AT MALIBU SEAFOOD / SUNSET / SHANANIGANS at the BEACH
MALIBU SEAFOOD https://goo.gl/maps/hmPMbvCBmwQGhu1Q6
🛑 REMEMBER… MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING!!! 🛑
************************************************************************
FROM Santa Monica travel NORTH on PCH approx 12 miles. Make a RIGHT on Malibu Canyon Road. (just before Pepperdine University) Approx 6 miles up the road, make a LEFT turn into Malibu Creek State Park. Fee is approx $12. We’re at the back of the SECOND parking lot on the left, approx 4/10 mile from the entrance

🌕Full Moon on Twin Peaks - Potluck Party
2021-04-26 18:30 - 21:30 | Twin Lakes Plateau – Near this address, 21600 Poema Pl, Chatsworth, 91311
PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING WHENEVER POSSIBLE, ESPECIALLY AT TRAIL HEAD AND BREAK SPOTS. WEAR A MASK OR FACE COVERING WHENEVER SOCIAL DISTANCING IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL. IT IS MANDATORY THAT YOU BRING A FACE COVERING. BRING HAND SANITIZER IF YOU HAVE IT.
Details
I am lifting the Coronavirus group-size restrictions starting with this hike! RSVP the same way we did a over a year ago.
Join us for our first full-moon hike of the season. Hike will be about 3.5 miles total with about 1000 feet total ascent. I promise there won’t be any bushwhacking or poison oak.
Our destination will be the west peak of Twin Peaks — 1,718 ft above sea level.
Bring some adult beverages to share and food for yourself (or share). Please bring your own cups, plates, flatware, etc
NO WHITE LIGHTS ALLOWED ON HIKE.
Green and/or red lights are ok (but lights will probably not be needed since the area will be well lit by moonlight). If you require a white light then this hike is not for you. (emergencies excepted, of course)
Get one of these and stuff it into your backpack for tonight and future night hikes.
B07L3LMJCM
We will watch the sun set and moon rise simultaneously with great views of the Valley. Don’t forget to bring something cold to drink for the peak top
Sunset: 7:35 pm
Moonrise: 7:24 pm
HIKE IS ABOUT 3.5 MILES WITH ABOUT 1,000 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED MEDIUM DUE TO TERRAIN. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
This hike is not suitable for beginners.
Directions:
Our parking and meetup spot is on a new-homes construction site. The streets are paved and the lots are marked, but there are no homes built yet. Its easy to get to, however, some of the streets are so new, they are not on some maps (or GPS) yet, so pay attention to these directions!
21600 Poema Pl is an address near the parking area. The Meetup map works on Windows and Android (Google maps) and takes you to parking area via Canoga Ave.
If you are using iPhone or car GPS, you may need the following directions, or type in the coordinates 34.279440,-118.600440
🚗From Canoga Ave – go north on Canoga Ave past the 118. Bear right and enter the Deerlake Ranch development; head uphill and make a left on Poema Pl. Go past the 21600 address, cross the bridge (that will be the 2nd bridge you cross), then turn right into the construction site for Crestley Homes. Park in cul de sac to the right
🚙From Topanga Cyn Blvd – go north on Topanga past the 118. Turn right on Poema Pl, but don’t go all the way to 21600. Before the bridge turn left into Crestly Homes consruction site. Park in cul de sac on right.
Here is an aerial for reference – note the parking location relative to the given address

BIKE RIDE - Lake Balboa to Burbank and back
2021-04-27 09:00 - 14:00 | 6300 Balboa Blvd, 6300 Balboa Blvd, Van Nuys, CA, 91406, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
BIKE RIDE FROM LAKE BALBOA TO BURBANK AND BACKThis is a new event for us. The Orange Line bikeway runs along the Orange Line in the San Fernando Valley. We’ll be starting at the Swan Boat Rental Parking lot at Lake Balboa and head out to Valley College. From there, we get onto Chandler Blvd and head towards the North Hollywood Red line with a caffeine stop and break at the Groundwork Coffee Company. Then we continue east until we hit the Burbank bike path and take it to its eastern end.Note that on Chandler Blvd, you will be riding in a bike lane on the road and not on a bike path.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Swan Boat Rental Parking Lot at Lake Balboa at 9am. There are restrooms here.
MEETUP DIRECTIONS FROM 101: Head north on Balboa Blvd. After Burbank Blvd, there will eventually be a right turn that takes you into Balboa Park. Follow that and the road will turn left, crossing a small creek and sending you northward. At the next stop sign, turn into the Swan Boat Rental parking lot.
If you have trouble finding us, call my cell# (805-358-5972).
MEETUP DATE AND TIME: Tuesday April 27th at 9″00 a.m.
PARKING FEE: It’s FREE!
DISTANCE: 22 miles round trip
DURATION: 5 hours
ELEVATION GAIN: minimal – it’s a pretty flat route
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: A paved two lane bike path and a bike lane on Chandler Blvd.
THE PACE: 9 MPH on up
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner on up
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event.

MT LUKENS
2021-04-29 07:00 - 13:00 | Deukmejian Wilderness Park, 3429 Markridge Rd, Glendale, CA, 91214, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO
Since we are living in the age of Covid, I am limiting this event to a max of 10 people due to social distancing.
THESE ARE THE RULES:1. ONLY people I have been hiking with during Covid will be moved to the going list.2. You must follow all safety guidelines regarding Covid. This means 6-ft social distancing, and wearing a mask.3. We hike as a group and will not leave anyone behind.4. Do not attend if you have to be back by a certain time.
Mount Lukens (5074′) stands majestically above the Crescenta Valley as the western most peak of the San Gabriel Mountains front range and is the highest point within Los Angeles city limits.
Stats:Level-Strong intermediate/NO BEGINNERSDistance- 10 milesGain- 3000′ (approximate)Terrain- fire road and single track trailsRestrooms- at the trailheadDogs- NOT ALLOWED ON THIS HIKEParking- free
WHAT TO BRING: A POSITIVE ATTITUDESnacks/lunch, at least 3 liters of water, Lug soles with good tread, poles if you like/have them. Hand sanitizer & mask.
My cell: 562 331 3793
CDH POLICY: Any member with two NO SHOWS on CDH events since will lose their membership with CDH. Members will not be allowed on this and future events until they have updated their CDH profile by answering the new questions as well as having a recognizable face photo of themselves. This update cannot be done via an app, an iPhone or any other type of a hand-held phone. It must be done on a computer.
COVID POLICY: We all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing during this event. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN YOU BEING EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.

Tapo Canyon Trail
2021-04-30 08:00 - 10:00 | Tapo Canyon Road, Tapo Canyon Rd, Simi Valley, CA, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail?u=i
Hello fellow hikers,Join me for a easier moderate hike on Tapo Canyon Trail in Simi Valley. This hike has a nice gradual walk until we start a gradual climb were we will start our loop. We should encounter wildflowers and mountain views. Our loop will drop down then we will continue until we start our climb back up. From there it will be all downhill and straight back to our cars. I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, stats and photos….We will be following the AllTrails map from start to finish…https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tapo-canyon-trail?u=i
Trail LoopMiles 4.3Rated ModerateDogs Allowed
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials you’ll need for a hike
And last….The Organizer, Co Organizer, Assistant Organizers and Event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guess

Camping at Pinnacles National Park
2021-04-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Pinnacles National Park, California, CA, 95043, US
Write up with a few changes from the same prior VHC event:
PAYPAL PAYMENT SECURES YOUR SPOT. $27 per person for 2 nights. NO REFUNDS after March 31, 2021 to compel commitment. Forfeited fees will be be donated to the Yosemite Conservancy under VHC’s name. MAX ~10 people.
CAMPING INFO
One group site (Good for 20 people, but we are limiting the attendance to 10 due to the pandemic). Parking will be limited to 5 vehicles. Please, carpool if possible.
Check in time is at 1:00 pm on Friday.
MAKE SURE YOU READ DRIVING DIRECTIONS BELOW. THERE IS NO THROUGH ROAD THAT CONNECTS THE EAST AND WEST ENTRANCES OF THE PARK. You want the EAST entrance location to the visitor’s center.
Make sure you have adequate amount of gas when you enter the park. You may run out of gas if you exit the park and head home using the I-5.
Last time, I had cellular service in the park using Google Fi. But it was spotty.
Showers: There is one men’s and one women’s shower stall located by the park pool. Cost is 50 cents for 3 minutes. There is also a pool available during certain times of the year.
Food: Due to the pandemic situation, everyone will be responsible for their own food. Please bring whatever you will need for your cooking and camping needs. And don’t forget your chairs.
There are fire pits but fires are NOT allowed at this time.
ENTRANCE/PARK FEE:
There is a fee to enter the park of $ 30.00 per vehicle payable at the East Entrance Station when arriving at the park (Driving directions below).
It also helps to support our national parks by buying the America the Beautiful annual pass. You hit 2 birds with one stone. I encourage you to get it from your local REI store or other sales outlet. The parks need our help. In return, we get a year of exemption paying national park entrance fees.
PARKING:
Please arrange carpools. We are allowed limited parking. The remainder of the cars will have to be parked in overflow parking, which is located behind the Visitors Center. There is no additional fee to park in overflow.
A Couple of Hikes Options:
***High Peaks- Balconies Cave Loop
Stats: Distance- Approximately 9.5 Miles
Elevation Gain- Approximately 1,800’
Rating- 5/10
Trail Type- Maintained trail with some steep rocky sections. Balconies Cave will require scrambling down and through some large boulders to reach the cave.
***Bear Gulch/Condor Gulch Loop
Stats: Distance-Approximately 6.0 Miles
Elevation Gain- Approximately 1,325’
Rating- 4/10
Trail Type- Maintained trail with some steep rocky sections.
***There are also some coastal hikes and sightseeing in Monterey. The temps will be cooler along the coast so pack accordingly.
More Information Regarding the Hikes and Pinnacles National Park:
Pinnacles National Park, located near the San Andreas Fault along the boundary of the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, is an excellent example of tectonic plate movement. The Pinnacles Rocks are believed to be part of the Neenach Volcano that occurred 23 million years ago near present-day Lancaster, California, some 195 miles (314 km) southeast. The giant San Andreas Fault split the volcano and the Pacific Plate crept north, carrying the Pinnacles. The work of water and wind on these erodible volcanic rocks has formed the unusual rock structures seen today.
Established in 1908 to preserve the incongruent and beautiful rock formations for which Pinnacles is named, the Park originally protected only 2,060 acres. It now encompasses about 26,000 acres in the southern portion of the Gabilan Mountains, one of a series of parallel northwest-trending ridges and valleys that make up the Central Coast Range.
Fault action and earthquakes also account for the talus caves that are another Pinnacles attraction. Deep, narrow gorges or shear fractures were transformed into caves when huge boulders toppled from above, and wedged in the fractures before reaching the ground. These boulders became the ceilings of the talus caves that now entice not only people, but also several kinds of bats.
The Pinnacles Talus Caves provide a nesting ground for 14 out of the 23 species of bats in California. There is currently a colony of Townsend’s Big-eared Bats in the Bear Gulch Cave and a colony of the Western Mastiff bat in the Balconies Cave area. Townsend’s big-eared bats are listed as a “sensitive species” by the state of California, and Pinnacles National Park is required to protect them. The colony in the Bear Gulch Cave is the largest maternity colony between San Francisco and Mexico. The National Park has constructed gates that allow areas of the cave to be open at certain times of the year, providing the colonies of bats show no signs of disturbance. We will visit the Balconies Cave on our loop hike on Saturday, and the Bear Gulch Cave on our loop hike on Sunday. Rain preceding our trip could cause closure of the caves due to flooding, but this would not effect our hike otherwise as there are trails routed around the caves for this reason.

Bear Gulch Trail/Cave
Pinnacles National Park has also joined the California Condor Recovery Program as a release and management site in 2003. The park currently manages 32 free-flying condors. Maybe we will be lucky enough to see some.
Spring is the most popular time to visit Pinnacles National Park. Temperatures are mild, the wildflowers are abundant and both Talus caves are usually open to the public.
High Peaks-Balconies Cave Loop
After Breakfast, we will consolidate cars and head over to the Old Pinnacles trailhead where we will start our hike on the High Peaks Balconies Cave Loop. Heading south on the Bench Trail, we will pick up the High Peaks trail on the right. Just past the junction with the Tunnel trail, the High Peaks Trail gets narrow and steep, crossing through a rocky area where steps have been cut into the rock to form steep staircases to get you across the crown of the pinnacles. Once across the pinnacles, we will descend to the Juniper Canyon Trail. After descending 0.6 miles on the Juniper Canyon trail, we will take a short detour on the Tunnel Trail to see the tunnel, before descending the rest of the Juniper Canyon Trail to the Balconies Trail. Balconies Trail turns northeast and heads gradually downhill into a canyon framed by tall rock formations and into the Balconies Cave itself. Balconies Cave is a talus cave, formed when boulders tumbled into this steep canyon and created a cave ceiling. We will be climbing down and around boulders and through openings to get across Balconies Cave, Don’t forget your headlamp. After leaving Balconies Cave, we will close the loop by taking the Old Pinnacles Trail back to the cars at the trailhead.

Bear Gulch/Condor Gulch Loop
The trailhead is located the Bear Gulch Day Use Area where we will start our hike going south on the Bear Gulch Trail to Bear Gulch Cave and the Bear Gulch Reservoir. From here we will head north up the Rim Trail to the junction with the High Peaks Trail. Above the Rim Trail, the High Peaks Trail climbs 850 feet over 1.5 miles to a junction with the Juniper Canyon Trail near Scout Peak. Those just wanting to visit the cave and not complete the loop hike, can simply turn right at the junction with the High Peaks Trail and head back to the trailhead on the Bear Gulch Trail. For those wanting to complete the loop, we will continue on the High Peaks Trail ( a small section going through the best section of the pinnacles of which we did on Saturday ) to pick up the Condor Gulch Trail and its descent to the Bear Gulch Trail and back to the cars.

Link to hiking maps:
Pinnacles Park Trail Map (http://files.meetup.com/1132792/Pinnacles%20National%20Park%20Map.pdf)
High Peaks Balconies Cave Loop (http://files.meetup.com/1132792/Pinnacles%20High%20Peaks%20-Balconies%20Cave%20Loop.pdf)
Bear Gulch-Condor Gulch Loop (http://files.meetup.com/1132792/Pinnacles%20Bear%20Gulch-Condor%20Gulch%20Loop.pdf)
Driving Directions ( Copied from the park website ) :
THERE IS NO THROUGH ROAD THAT CONNECTS THE EAST AND WEST ENTRANCES OF THE PARK !!
Using a Online Map Website:
Using the search term “Pinnacles National Park” or the official park address will yield a different actual point on the map depending on which site is used. For directions or location using online maps, copy and paste the following coordinates into the search:
For the East Side of Park (Pinnacles Visitor Center): 36.493545, -121.146646
Using GPS Navigation:
When entering the park address or name in a GPS device, motorists can be routed to a side of the park which they did not intent to visit. When using GPS, verify your route using a map or the driving directions listed below.
For devices which coordinates may be manually entered, use the above coordinates to aid in your navigation to the intended side of the park.
DIRECTIONS
Take Hwy 101 North to the town of King City.
Exit at 1st Street.
Turn right toward King City.
Continue straight until 1st St turns into Bitterwater Rd (Monterey County G13).
Follow Bitterwater Rd until it intersects Hwy 25.
Turn left on Hwy 25 (North) and follow for ~15 miles.
Turn left onto Hwy 146 to enter the park.
Turn left into the Pinnacles Campground and check in at Pinnacles Visitor Center.
From LA area, 5 Fwy is also an option but requires more driving off the Fwy. Probably not best at night. Approximately 260 mi to Pinnacles from the Valley.
Take 5 Fwy north. Continue on the 5 where the 5 and 99 split.
Approximately 16 miles after Kettleman City/Hwy 41 (remaining on the 5), take exit 325 for Jayne Ave.
Turn left onto W Jayne Ave.
In approx 12 mi, turn left onto 198 W (McDonalds and Auto Zone at the intersection).
Drive ~34 mi, turn right onto Hwy 25.
Drive ~33 mi, turn left into Hwy 146.
Visitor’s Center will be on the left after a couple of miles.
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The Fine Print
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The VHC Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
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San Dimas Canyon to Sunset Peak Radio Towers
2021-05-01 07:00 - 15:00 | San Dimas Canyon Dam Area, 9865 N San Dimas Canyon Rd, La Verne, CA, 91750, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/san-dimas-canyon-to-sunset-peak-radio-towers?u=i
Hello Fellow Hikers,Are you looking to get out and hit a challenging hike but don’t want to hit the popular peak hikes on the weekends? Yeah me neither. So join me on this less traveled but good distance with elevation gain hike. This trail starts off going up with switchbacks for the first 4 miles after that its a continuous climb to the top. Gorgeous views South over the whole valley and North of the Mountains. Then, about 5 miles in, you see Baldy, Claremont, Upland, Rancho and much further. But this will not be a walk in the park this is definitely gonna kick our butts when we’re done. But worth the views the challenge and the accomplishment. This is also an excellent training hike. We will be following the AllTrails map so please see the link provided for directions, stats and photos….
Trail out and backMillage 17.1Elevation Gain 4219Rated Hard (not recommended for beginners)
We will follow Jim’s Golden Rules…1) Hike your own hike2) Please wait at every junction and split for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials needed for a hike. As this is a long hike you’ll need extra water, snacks ect…
And last… The Organizer, Assistant Organizer, Event Organizer and Event Host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest….

Hill Canyon to Elliott Mountain and Beyond
2021-05-02 09:00 - 13:00 | Santa Rosa Valley Park, 10241 Hill Canyon Rd, Camarillo, CA, 93012
Join our Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/hikingwithdean/
Details

The official trail up Elliot Mountain (technically a peak at 1,063 ft) was built May 2015. Below is a photo showing how we used to climb it. The mountain, a bench and the trail are named after Burt Elliot who was very active with Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency. Burt died of cancer in the Spring of 2014. He was the go-to guy for all things Conejo Open Space.

We began exploring this area in 2008 when we were the original “The Weekday Hikers.”. At that time there was a system of old use trails known mainly only to a few local equestrians. It soon became a favorite and regular hiking location for us. From 2008 to 2011 Hill Canyon was the location of our unofficial club house.
B01MRQCENJ
A few years later, open space agencies and other trail-builders literally followed in our footsteps and began converting our use trails to official “new” trails, erected trail signs and built bridges.
Here is a video of our hike from 2015

HIKE IS ABOUT 9 MILES WITH ABOUT 1500 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED DIFFICULT DUE TO TERRAIN. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
Bring 2 Qt water, lugsoles, snacks, sunscreen, hat
POST-HIKE LUNCH
Don Cuco, Moorpark
254 Los Angeles Avenue
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/C3vN5WKidMZgTQ6X6
http://doncucorestaurants.com/

Trail statistics are approximate. For safety purposes always assume they are underestimated. But don’t be disappointed if they are overestimated. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.
Directions
If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late…don’t bother showing up
Head to the address given. There is paid ($5) parking there. Keep going and little past that is free parking on the left. We’ll meet in the free lot. Park in $5 lot if free lot is full.

Trail descriptions are based on previous hikes. Current conditions are unknown until arrival. Expect the unexpected and plan accordingly.
The Organizers and members in this group are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per the ASSUMPTION OF RISK
AND LIABILITY WAIVER – https://www.meetup.com/localhikers/pages/322667/Liability_Waiver/

BIKE RIDE - Ventura to Faria Point and back
2021-05-03 10:00 - 14:00 | 901 San Pedro St, 901 San Pedro St, Ventura, CA, 93001, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.
BIKE RIDE FROM VENTURA TO FARIA POINT AND BACKWe’ll be riding from San Buenaventura State Beach in Ventura to Faria Point. Afterwards, we’ll head (via bike) to Dukes Bar and Grill at 1124 S Seaward Ave, Ventura for a debriefing.
Make sure you bring along a spare inner tube.
MEETUP LOCATION AND TIME: Buenaventura state park in the parking lot that’s nearest to the beach and the bike path. There are restrooms here.
MEETUP DIRECTIONS FROM 101: Exit at Seaward Avenue in Ventura and head towards the ocean. Turn right on Pierpoint Blvd and take it to the end which will take you into the park.
If you have trouble finding us, call my cell# (805-358-5972).
MEETUP DATE AND TIME: Monday May 3rd at 10 a.m.
PARKING FEE: Probably about $10 for the day. However – if you are 62 or older, you can get a Golden Bear limited pass for $20 which works at this park and most State Parks and beaches. It’s not usable between Memorial Day to Labor Day, but its usually pays for itself after 2 uses. You can buy it at the park office at this location, though you should contact them to make sure they’ll be open. Also, if you are going to buy one, please allow extra time to get it so you’ll be ready to ride at 10am. There’s also street parking, but that can be hard to find in a beach city.
DISTANCE: 16 miles round trip
DURATION: 4 hours
ELEVATION GAIN: minimal – it’s a pretty flat route with a few small inclines.
BIKE TRAIL DESCRIPTION: A paved two lane bike path and a bike lane on Pacific Coast Highway.
THE PACE: 9 MPH on up
LEVEL: Advanced Beginner on up
MY CELL # IS 805-358-5972
CDC COVID POLICY: We’ll all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing guidelines during this event.

Sudden Hike ~ Wishing Tree in the Verdugos
2021-05-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Olive Terrace Walking Trail, 10031 Olivia Terrace, Sun Valley, CA, 91352, US
COVID precautions still apply. YOU MUST BRING A FACE COVERING to meet up at the trailhead. Please be mindful of other people’s space.
Come out to celebrate VHC’s 13th ANNIVERSARY, Cinco de Mayo, Teacher Appreciation Week, National Hoagie Day or simply come stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors with friends.
THE PLAN
Always finding new trails and routes around the Verdugos. The Chandler Fire Road will take us winding in the hills above Burbank to the Wishing Tree. Once we arrive at our destination, we will stop for a snack break and watch the setting sun. Bring warm layers since it tends to get windy here. Sunset is at 7:41.
This trailhead is in a residential neighborhood so please be mindful of noise.
STATS (est.)
Distance: 7 miles-ish
Elevation Gain: <2000 ft.
Rating: 5/10, not for beginners
Trail: Single Track, Fire Break, Fire Road, Out and Back, Very Steep Uphill Sections
Directions: From the 5 fwy, exit at Hollywood Way. Go north and make an immediate left on Glenoaks Blvd. You’ll want the right lane because you’ll make another immediate turn to go right on Hollywood Way. Follow it until it curves left into Lanark St. Make a right on Edmore Pl and find parking where it meets Olivia Terrace. Meet at the forest gate on your right. Olivia Terrace dead ends so, if you go too far, turn around and find parking around the bend.
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The Fine Print
PLEASE – Know your limits and abilities. Bring snacks and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
The Farzan Rule: Posted hike times are the time the hike starts or we leave from a posted shuttle location. I’m aware other Meetup groups offer a grace period for late arrivals; we don’t. It’s your responsibility to know the location of the meeting spot and be there and ready to participate at the posted time. If you have any concerns about the directions feel free to contact the organizer of the event, preferably in advance of the event and not at the start time. I’m of the opinion that it’s not fair to delay an event when the majority of attendees have arrived on-time. (so named after a conversation I had with a certain un-named member)
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike and the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water and/or water crossings or bouldering and/or rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!
1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. elevation gain
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. elevation gain (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. elevation gain (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination
Class 3 Scrambling: Scrambling or un-roped climbing. You must use your hands at times to hold the terrain or find your route. This may be caused by a combination of boulders, steepness and extreme terrain. Some Class 3 routes have ropes in place for assistance.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The VHC Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any VHC Meetup events, you are releasing the VHC Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
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MT LUKENS
2021-05-06 07:00 - 13:00 | Deukmejian Wilderness Park, 3429 Markridge Rd, Glendale, CA, 91214, US
BEFORE YOU WILL BE MOVED TO THE GOING LIST, YOU WILL NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CDH PROFILE (The three questions must be answered with a “yes”) IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO
Since we are living in the age of Covid, I am limiting this event to a max of 10 people due to social distancing.
THESE ARE THE RULES:1. ONLY people I have been hiking with during Covid will be moved to the going list.2. You must follow all safety guidelines regarding Covid. This means 6-ft social distancing, and wearing a mask.3. We hike as a group and will not leave anyone behind.4. Do not attend if you have to be back by a certain time.
Mount Lukens (5074′) stands majestically above the Crescenta Valley as the western most peak of the San Gabriel Mountains front range and is the highest point within Los Angeles city limits.
Stats:Level-Strong intermediate/NO BEGINNERSDistance- 10 milesGain- 3000′ (approximate) Terrain- fire road and single track trailsRestrooms- at the trailhead Dogs- NOT ALLOWED ON THIS HIKEParking- free
WHAT TO BRING: A POSITIVE ATTITUDE Snacks/lunch, at least 3 liters of water, Lug soles with good tread, poles if you like/have them. Hand sanitizer & mask.
My cell: 562 331 3793
CDH POLICY: Any member with two NO SHOWS on CDH events since will lose their membership with CDH. Members will not be allowed on this and future events until they have updated their CDH profile by answering the new questions as well as having a recognizable face photo of themselves. This update cannot be done via an app, an iPhone or any other type of a hand-held phone. It must be done on a computer.
COVID POLICY: We all wear a mask and practice CDC social distancing during this event. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN YOU BEING EXCLUDED FROM MY EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.

Rocky Peak Trail to the Peak
2021-05-07 08:00 - 11:00 | Rocky Peak Trailhead, Rocky Peak Rd, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
Hello fellow Hikes,This is my favorite local hike. This has the perfect amount of elevation gain with views to make this a great hike. Not a long trail so you can get in a great workout and still go and enjoy the rest of your day. This trail is a nice wide trail that starts to cimb from the parking lot. It continues with both inclines and level sections until you begin your finish climb to the top. Once you have reached the top we will veer off the main trail to a side trail that will take to the actual peak of Rocky Peak. Where we will be rewarded with a peak marker a register box and some beautiful views… I have attached the AllTrails link for directions, stats and photos….
Trail out and backRated moderateMileage 5.3Elevation gain 1306Dogs are able to use this trail but there is a scramble to the peak
We will always follow Jim’s Golden Rules:1) Hike your own hike2) Please stop at every junction and split to wait for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials you’ll need for a hike.
And last….The Organizer, Assistant Organizer and Event host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guess

Mt. Baldy via the Ski Hut Trail
2021-05-08 07:00 - 14:00 | Manker Flat, California, CA, 91759, US
This is a loop hike going up the Ski Hut trail and coming down the Devil’s Backbone trail to Baldy notch.
OPTIONAL lunch at the Notch Restaurant before heading down.
From the notch, there is a 3 mile fire road to walk back to Manker Flats.If you want to take the ski lift down instead, the cost is $10 and you will have to buy tickets in advance for that price at this link,
https://mtbaldyskilifts.ltibooking.com/products/mt-baldy-one-way-scenic-chairlift-ride?type=1&start_date=2021-05-08
NOT FOR BEGINNERS. This is a STRENUOUS hike.
OPTION 1: If you are still a “newbie” hiker and want some experience at higher altitudes, you will want to only hike to the Ski Hut and return the same way back to Manker Flats. Total mileage will be approximately 4.6 miles and you should be finished in 4 hours or so. Even though this hike option is shorter, it is still a hard and strenuous hike.
OPTION 2: If you are an advanced / intermediate hiker going to the summit, this will be either an 8 mile or an 11 mile hike.
Distance: 11 miles or 8 miles depending on your choice to walk down from Baldy Notch or take the ski lift down.
Elevation Gain: ~4,000 ft.
Max elevation : 10,064 ft.
Rating: 8/10 Strenuous
Trail: Looped some pavement, fire roads, but mostly single track and rocky trails
ESSENTIALS:
3 Liters of water (Minimum)SunscreenHatSnacksHiking Poles (Recommended)Layered clothing (can be windy & chilly at the summit)Money for ski lift (optional) and grub from The Notch
Check the Weather (http://www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/hdfForecast?query=91759&searchType=WEATHER)
This is considered a high altitude hike and high altitude sickness, AKA acute mountain sickness, is a possibility. Good Physical health is important. The San Antonio Ski Hut/Baldy Bowl Trail is considered the most direct route to the summit of Mount Baldy (10,064′). This climb is considered strenuous.
As you approach the Manker Flat parking area you will be on a 4 lane road with a wide center divider. Parking is on both sides and in the divider. After you pass the Manker Flat campground on the right, look for Angeles Falls Road. There is access through the divider at this point, so you can turn left and park hopefully closer to the trail head. There is a gate across Angeles Falls road and porta potties. This is the trail head. The road up to Baldy is VERY curvy with VERY tight turns. Anybody who does not like twisty roads with dropoffs should be a passenger!
PLEASE –Know your limits and abilities. Bring and drink plenty of liquids when hiking. Check weather conditions and dress accordingly and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while carrying on a conversation with awesome fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding and fun.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Early Bird Hiking Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Early Bird Hiking Meetup events, you are releasing the Early Bird Hiking and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.﻿﻿
As a courtesy to others, we will wear a mask when within 6 ft of another hiker. Hike is cross-posted with Early Bird Hikers

The Ridge trail to Rocky Peak down Chumash trail loop
2021-05-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Las Llajas Canyon Trail, 5715 Evening Sky Dr, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/las-llajas-canyon-and-ridge-loop
Hello Fellow Hikers,If you haven’t done the Ridge trail in Simi Valley your in for a treat. This is a lesser known/traveled trail. You will follow the top Ridge of Las Llajas. The first 2 1/2 miles of this trail is where most of your incline comes in. Will have some steep sections to climb but the reward are the views! The above photo was taken off the Ridge trail just to give you an idea of how high and pretty the trail is. But instead of following the AllTrails from the Ridge trail to Las Llajas we will continue our journey to Chumash trail were will finish our hike back on Evening Sky Dr to our cars completing our loop…The AllTrails link will give you an idea of our hike it will also give you directions to our meeting spot
Trail LoopMiles about 10.0Elevation gain about 1900Rated Hard ( due to most elevation gain is within the first 3 miles )Dogs Not recommended on this one
We will follow Jim’s Golden Rules…1) Hike your own hike2) Please wait at every junction and split for others to catch up
Please remember to bring your face covering and all essentials needed for a hike.
And last… The Organizer, Assistant Organizer, Event Organizer and Event Host in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a Event is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guest….
