Hiking with Dean

🥂 Night Hike - Serrania Ridge to the Water Tank 🍻
2019-08-30 18:30 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Serrania Park, 20726 Wells Drive, Woodland Hills, ca, 91364, US
Our hike begins at Serrania Ridge, a pocket of parkland on the suburban edge of Woodland Hills. The ridge’s name—and its geography—seem to be in limbo. Serrania Ridge is also called Woodland Ridge. Is it a part of the Santa Monica Mountains? Or is it a part of Chalk Hill to the northeast?
We can contemplate these questions as we roller-coaster up and down–mostly up–partaking views of the Santa Monica mountains rising before us, Calabasas hills to the right of us, Chalk Hill to the left of us and the west San Fernando Valley behind us. After about 1 mile we cross dirt Mulholland and continue on a steep trail to the top of the ridge where we’ll turn onto a service road and head up to the water tank.
🍷🥨Bring snack and drinks to share
NO WHITE LIGHTS – Red and Green lights only. If you don’t have one you can piggy-back off of someone else’s. Here are some recommendations:
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Hike is a 3.7-mile lollipop with about 930 ft total ascent. No white lights allowed. Bring a green or red headlamp/light if you have one. If you don’t you can piggy back off mine and the others’

Sunset: 7:21 PM
Directions
From the 101 Freeway, take the De Soto exit and head south for 0.7 miles. On the way, De Soto becomes Serrania Avenue. Bear left onto Wells Drive and the park will be almost immediately on your right.
Facilities are available at the trail head (but may be locked?).

Franklin Trail - Carpinteria
2019-08-25 09:00 - 14:00 | Carpinteria High School, 4810 Foothill Rd, Carpinteria, CA, 93013, US
At over 100 years old, the Franklin Trail is one of the oldest trails in Carpinteria. It closed back in the 1970s because ranchers worried people could carry avocado root rot to their crops. Through much work among government agencies, the Santa Barbara Land Trust and volunteers, most of the trail has recently re-opened
Our hike begins in an urban setting at Carpinteria High School with a steady climb up Franklin Canyon. After a couple miles and 850 ft up we arrive at a prime spot with spectacular vistas of Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and the Channel Islands. Then its three more miles of hiking fire roads, ranch roads, with the trail moving up-and-down into wild areas and delivering us into the Los Padres National Forest at 1,703 feet. We return the same way we came up. Round trip is about 10 miles with 2,000 ft total ascent.
Here are some photos from the trail. Click on pic to enlarge

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Post-hike lunch
Padaro Beach Grill
3765 Santa Claus Lane
Carpinteria, CA 93013
http://padarobeachgrill.com
Click here for directions from trail head

Directions to Trail Head
Drive to Carpinteria High School and park in the west parking lot. Trail head is right there.

I forgot to call Carpinteria HS to make sure there are no school events Sunday. If there is an event preventing us from using their parking lot, we can use the neighborhood streets. Please review parking “Plan B” below before leaving home.

Santa Monica Mountains & Malibu Miniatures
2019-08-18 09:00 - 17:00, 2019-08-17 09:00 - 17:00, 2019-08-12 09:00 - 17:00, 2019-08-11 09:00 - 17:00 | Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
California Art Club Show & Sale – Now through August 30th
Local artists from the California Art Club—a century-old arts organization—capture the diverse beauty of Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains with miniature works of art that feature the crashing waves of Leo Carrillo, the winding trails of Will Rogers State Historic Park, and beyond.
096722571X
This event is free with free parking. For more information about this event, email samo@wnpa.org or call 805-370-2302. For directions to the Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, click here.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaAnthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor CenterKing Gillette Ranch26876 Mulholland HighwayCalabasas, CA 91302

Hiking with Mark E: Grasslands Trail to Century Lake & the Rock Pool
2019-08-17 08:00 - 10:30 | Grasslands Trail, 26990 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA, 91301, US
Take a walk in the park with Mark, Malibu Creek State Park, that is. We’ll start on the Grassland Trail off of Mulholland Hwy and head south on a scenic stroll over rolling hills and through open fields of grain.
Our first destination is picturesque Century Lake. Ducks, coots, and herons frequent the lake, their squalling and callings reverberating off the weathered, honeycombed cliffs rising from the lake’s far shore. Redwing blackbirds flit among the cattails and rushes. The famous diving scene from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was filmed here.
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Next, we’ll depart the shaded shores of Century Lake and head out to our final destination: The Rock Pool, a placid stretch of water framed by volcanic cliffs. Cliff divers and rock climbers will provide the entertainment. This generically wild-looking site has served as a backdrop for outdoor sequences filmed for Planet of the Apes, South Pacific, Tarzan, Swiss Family Robinson, and many other productions.
Hike will be an easy 5 miles with 500 ft elevation gain. Suitable for fit beginners
DIRECTIONS
Trail head and free street parking on Mullholland Hwy, 0.2 mi west of Las Virgenes Cyn Rd

Easy Full Moon Hike - Santa Maria Canyon - Summer Hill Ranch Loop
2019-08-15 18:45 - 21:45 | Viewridge – Summit Pointe Estates, 3110 N Summit Pointe Dr, Topanga, CA, 90290
We’ll enjoy a great “lollipop” outing in the northeastern corner of Topanga State Park starting at the Viewridge Trailhead for Santa Maria Canyon. We’ll connect up with The Summer Hill Ranch Trail — a short and easy loop that curves around a low-rising hill dotted with coastal live oak trees.
Highlights during this stroll through a wooded canyon include ocean views and a sturdy bridge that will take us across Santa Maria Canyon. After crossing the bridge we’ll take Summer Hill Ranch trail to the Canyon Overlook. Here, either at a picnic table or atop a sandstone outcrop, we’ll enjoy a potluck party with excellent views of Topanga Canyon’s trademark geology and of Santa Maria Canyon. There are caves and crevices to explore too!
So bring some snacks and drink to share under the full moon.
Here is a slide show from this hike last December:

Hike will be about 3 miles with 800 ft total ascent. Its an upside down hike so it will be mostly downhill while our packs are full.
NO WHITE LIGHTS – Red and Green lights only. If you don’t have one you can piggy-back off of someone else’s. Here are some recommendations:
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Sunset: 7:41
Moonrise: 8:11
Directions
From Highway 101: drive south on Topanga Canyon Blvd for 3.7 miles. Turn left on Viewridge and drive 0.5 miles to the end of the road.
From Pacific Coast Highway: head north on Topanga Canyon Blvd. for 9 miles and turn right on Viewridge.
Park by end of street. There is plenty of street parking
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.
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Santa Monica Mountains & Malibu Miniatures
2019-08-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
California Art Club Show & Sale
Now through August 30th
Local artists from the California Art Club—a century-old arts organization—capture the diverse beauty of Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains with miniature works of art that feature the crashing waves of Leo Carrillo, the winding trails of Will Rogers State Historic Park, and beyond.
096722571X
This event is free with free parking. For more information about this event, email samo@wnpa.org or call 805-370-2302.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center
King Gillette Ranch
26876 Mulholland Highway
Calabasas, CA 91302

Secret Staircases of Rustic Canyon + Murphy Ranch
2019-08-10 09:00 - 12:00 | Sullivan Ridge at Casale Rd, Capri Drive and Casale Road, Los Angeles, CA, 90272, US
A hidden staircase, the longest public staircase in Los Angeles, drops 24 stories into the middle of lush Rustic Canyon.

There are actually two staircases with over 500 steps — each! We’ll use the longest one to climb our way out of Rustic Canyon toward the end of our loop.
Here are some photos from previous hikes. Click on pic to enlarge

Riddle
What does the inventor of the photobooth, The Beach Boys, a bunch of WWII-era NAZIs and Charlie Manson have in common? Answer will be revealed during hike!
I will combine a 6-mile hike with the stairs taking in Rustic and Sullivan Canyons by way of little known trails creating a loop with about 1,100 ft total ascent. Along the way we’ll visit Murphy Ranch, a 1930s hideout where, according to urban myth, Third Reich sympathizers could sequester themselves until German rule had been established in the USA
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Directions to Trailhead
From Sunset Blvd, 3 miles west of the 405, turn north at the light onto Capri Drive. After 1/3 mile continue through the traffic circle, remaining on Capri Drive for another 1/3 mile until it comes to and end at Casale Road. Sullivan Ridge Fire road begins to the left but do not turn left on Casale Rd. Find street parking to the right or on an adjacent roads below.
After you park, walk to the corner of Capri Dr and Casale Rd. This is where we will meet and check in.
Trailhead coordinates: 34.061097, -118.504121

Journey to the Center of the City - Franklin Canyon
2019-08-03 09:00 - 12:00 | Franklin Canyon Park – Ranch, 1936 Lake Dr, Beverly Hills, CA, CA, 90210
This HDW original is a classic. On this 6-7 mile hike I will take you through Franklin Canyon and then a bit off-trail to the “planar” center of Los Angeles. It will make a great photo opp. There will be about 1200 ft of total ascent.
Franklin Canyon Park is one of the very few places in LA with a greenbelt filled with pines, sycamore, eucalyptus and cedars, most notably the Atlas Cedar and mature Coast Redwoods that are a rare site in most big cities.
Highlights along the way to the center of the city:
Franklin Canyon Lake: the location where we see Opie skipping a rock in the water during the opening credits of The Andy Griffith Show and Capt. Kirk falling in love with an Indian maiden on Star Trek.

The Doheny House: The family of oil baron Edward L. Doheny used the canyon as a summer retreat and a place to graze and water their cattle. The Doheny family built a Spanish style home here in 1935.

Heavenly Pond: is a small duck pond located to the west of the Franklin Canyon Lake

Bring snacks and a quart of water.
Here are some scenes from some popular TV shows and movies filmed at Franklin Canyon. Do you recognize any?

For you music lovers, here are a couple of albums covers photographed in Franklin Canyon:

Directions – Parking is Free
See also http://www.meetup.com/localhikers/messages/boards/thread/48433782
From West Los Angeles:
Head north on Beverly Drive following signs to Coldwater Canyon. Turn left on Coldwater/Beverly Drive, and turn left again on Beverly Drive, at Fire Station No. 2. The third right is Franklin Canyon Drive. Continue through the residential area to park entrance. At the intersection of Franklin Canyon Drive and Lake Drive turn right onto Lake and head toward the end of Lake Dr to parking lot next to large grass lawn.
(If you are coming down Sunset from east of Beverly Dr its probably easier to take Rexford to Beverly)
From the San Fernando Valley:
Take the 101 to Coldwater Canyon Boulevard. Head south to the intersection of Coldwater Canyon and Mulholland Drive. Make a 90 degree right turn onto Franklin Canyon Drive just before Coldwater merges into Mulholland Dr. Road signs read “Road Closed 800 Feet” “Sunset to Sunrise”; this is the park entrance. Do NOT make a U-turn as this will bring you onto Mulholland Drive instead of Franklin Canyon. Stay on paved surface, drive past the Outdoor Classroom/Nature Center, and continue south of the lake for 1.5 miles, bearing left onto Lake Dr at stop sign, and head toward the end of Lake Dr to large parking lot next to large grass lawn

You will drive 0.6 mi past the sign for “Franklin Canyon Ranch” then 0.3 mile past the point marked 2300 Lake Dr to the large parking lot on the left

Here is an aerial view of parking lot and trail head. Note the bathrooms in middle-right. We’ll be starting on the trail you see cutting across the grass

VIP Hike: Cold Creek Adventure
2019-07-27 09:00 - 13:00 | Cold Creek High Trail, 1100 Stunt Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91301, United States
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Evening Hike: Natoma Loop and a Little More
2019-07-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Natoma Loop Trail, 4164 Natoma Ave, Woodland Hills, 91364
Natoma Loop Trail is a 1.7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located in Woodland Hills. But anything less than a couple miles is not worth getting up for so we’ll extend the loop a bit for a distance of 3.5-4 miles with easy to moderate elevation gain.
No white lights allowed on hike. Green and/or red lights are ok. If you don’t have one, that’s ok too — the full moon will provide enough light. Get one of these and stuff it into your backpack for future night hikes.
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It will be a very warm evening but at least the sun won’t be beating down on us while we watch it set. Bring something cold to drink at the top 🍺🍹

The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

🐐 Chivo Canyon - Las Llajas Canyon Loop
2019-07-21 09:00 - 15:00 | Las Llajas Canyon Trailhead, 5719 Evening Sky Dr, Simi Valley, CA, 93063, US
I have been informed that there is a new (passable) fence and no trespassing sign in Chivo Canyon. The sign points in the same direction we are hiking so we will be exiting the area at this point. The sign is a little over half-way into the hike. I don’t know if there will be any other signs along the way that will prevent us from entering the other end of that area. I do have a Plan B if a sign prevents us from moving forward, but it may create a longer hike. Expect the Unexpected!

Here is a map of planned route with explanations

Join our Facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/hikingwithdean/
Learn why this is one of the best Simi hikes! We will be hiking a counter-clockwise loop on eroded ranch roads and little-used goat and cow trails through oak woodlands and along a creek. On the way we will come across grazing cattle, marine fossils and the old Coquina Mine. At the abandoned limestone mining operation, atop a peak, you can sit in the operator’s seat of a large steam shovel. On a clear day you can see the ocean from atop the ridgeline.

While you are there, don’t forget to get a picture of yourself on the steam shovel This is a P&H Model 206 steam shovel from 1920s. There is lots more mining equipment strewn about. My research indicates that the equipment was abandoned at the Coquina mine after a fire.

Fiddleneck and Lupine abound!

Follow that cow!

We’ll be doing a little creeking too
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Watch for fossils along the way

Here we are heading down one of the cow trails

Hike is about 9.2 miles with 1000 ft net elevation gain/2000 ft total ascent. Wear long pants

Post-hike lunch
The Junkyard Cafe
2585 Cochran St
Park in rear

Click on year for More Photos:
2010
2011
2012
2014
2016
Directions to trailhead:
Take the 118 and exit Yosemite Ave. Head north on Yosemite for 1.3 mile to where the road splits and hang a right on Evening Sky Dr. Go 0.5 mile to the Las Llajas trailhead on the left

Buck Moon Hike on Mt. Basura - Las Virgenes Highlands
2019-07-16 19:00 - 22:00 | Upper Las Virgenes Cyn Open Space Preserve LV Trailhead, 6000 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302
Tired of the same old full moon hike? Then this one is for you. It will be the first time we have gone to Mt Basura in the evening. Between Upper Las Virgenes and Cheseboro Canyons is the site of “Mt Basura” — my name for the Calabasas Landfill. Our destination is a small peak overlooking the landfill with views of Calabasas and Agoura beyond.

Bring drink and light snacks to share. I’ll bring some cold white wine.
Our usual hikes to Mt Basura are about 8-9 miles. I have created a shorter option of about 5.5 miles with about 600′ net elevation gain. The trails are clear and wide — perfect for a moonlit hike.
No white lights allowed on hike. Green and/or red lights are ok. If you don’t have one, that’s ok too — the full moon will provide enough light. Get one of these and stuff it into your backpack for future night hikes.
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The Full Moon in July is the Buck Moon, named after the new antlers that emerge from a buck’s forehead around this time of the year. It is also called Thunder Moon, Hay Moon, and Wort Moon.
Sunset 8:04 pm
Moon rise 8:13 pm
Park near the north end of Las Virgenes Rd. Arrive early to secure your spot. Hike starts promptly at 7pm

From the Sea to the Real Mesa Peak
2019-07-13 08:00 - 12:00 | Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market and Patio Café, 25653 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA, 90265
View the hike report

Many hiking groups promise to take you to Mesa Peak but they never do. That’s because they have confused their peaks and take you to the wrong one. So come along with us to the real Mesa Peak!
Our hike will begin at the beach in Corral Canyon, the last undeveloped coastal canyon in Los Angeles County that flows freely to the ocean. We will then leave Corral Canyon for my “secret trail” through pristine wilderness to the Puerco Canyon watershed divide that provides spectacular ocean and mountain views.

We’ll take a snack break on Mesa Peak (elev 1,844 ft)

Hike is about 8 miles with over 1800 ft elevation gain in the first 4 miles. Its out and back with two interweaving loops.
Post hike lunch will be at Malibu Seafood (http://www.malibuseafood.com/) – right at the trailhead.
🍹🍷🍺They allow you to bring your own beverage, alcohol included

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There is street parking on PCH. Pay parking available at trail head next to restaurant – $5.00. Credit card ok
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one of these might come in handy
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Leo Carrillo State Park to Nicholas Flat - Lunch at Spruzzo
2019-07-06 09:00 - 14:00 | Leo Carrillo State Park, 35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA, 90265, US
Don’t forget to join our Facebook Group. Join here
The Nicholas Flat Trail in Leo Carrillo State Park is unique in the way it connects the mountains with the sea. Chaparral, grassland, coastal scrub and oak woodland all converge near the flat with spectacular ocean views along the way. An old cattle pond backed by picturesque sandstone outcroppings provides a home for red-wing blackbirds and a welcoming resting place for us. Click here to Scroll down to the bottom of the page for a short bio of Leo Carrillo Trails used: Willow Creek Trail, Nicholas Flat trail, Meadows Trail, Camp 13 Trail, Nicholas Ridge Trail, Malibu Springs Trail, Nicholas Ranch Road

Hike is 9 miles with 1800 ft net elevation gain — 1600 in the first three miles. No beginners. We’ll take a snack break on the rocks above the pond, overlooking San Nicholas Canyon toward the Pacific Ocean

Click on year for some photos from past hikes just like this one;
2009, 2010, 2016
Similar Hikes
Nicholas Flat
Post-hike Lunch
Spruzzo
29575 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
Directions:
Leo Carrillo State Park is on PCH a little east of Mulholland Hwy
From 101 in Valley: Head west and exit Kanan Rd. Head toward beaches and turn right on on PCH. Drive 8 miles to Leo Carrillo State Park and turn right into park entrance
From Hwy 10/West Side: Head up-coast on Pacific Coast Highway about 25 miles to Leo Carrillo State Beach. Turn right into park entrance
From Ventura-Oxnard-Camarillo: Head south on Hwy 1. Park is on left about 10.5 miles past Las Posas
Parking is 12 bucks, cash or credit. There is some free street parking across the street and about 1/4 mile north of park.
We’ll meet near parking lot entrance/exit

Leo Carrillo
Leo Carrillo State Park was named after Leo Carrillo (1880-1961), actor, preservationist and conservationist. Leo Carrillo served on the California Beach and Parks commission for eighteen years, and was instrumental in the state’s acquisition of the Hearst property at San Simeon and other large tracts of coastal parkland.
He was related by blood and marriage to a long line of distinguished original Californians. Leo’s father, Don Juan Carrillo, was the first mayor of Santa Monica in 1890. His great-grandfather was one of the last Mexican governors of California; his great-uncle José Antonio Carrillo was the Mexican land grant grantee of Rancho Las Posas in 1834, in present day Ventura County, and the Island of Santa Rosa of the Channel Islands.
Leo’s greatest fame came from his portrayal of Pancho, the sidekick to Duncan Renaldo’s Cisco Kid, an early 1950’s TV series. Click here for a list of Leo Carrillo movies. He toured the world as the state’s official Ambassador of Good Will. Governor Edmund G. Brown called Leo “Mr. California.”
His book on the history of California is a classic
B002KBR73A

4th of July Potluck Party & Hike - San Vicente Mountain Park - Nike Missile Base Loop
2019-07-04 18:45 - 21:45 | Power Pole Trail, 13138 Garden Land Rd, Los Angeles, CA, 90049, US
San Vicente Mountain Park (aka Nike Missile Base) offers stunning 360-degree views, access to a large network of hiking trails, and makes the perfect location for watching 4th of July fireworks over the San Fernando Valley and across the Los Angeles Basin to the ocean. The park also provides a glimpse into United States military history. Numerous self-guided interpretive displays explain how from 1956-1968, San Vicente Mountain was one of sixteen Los Angeles area Nike-Ajax supersonic anti-aircraft missile launch sites
The original radar tower will provide us with spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Encino Reservoir, San Fernando Valley, and the Los Angeles Basin. It is one of the region’s premiere locations to watch a Western sunset.
Here are some pics from previous excursions – click to enlarge

This is an easy-to-moderate 5-mile loop with 600 feet of net elevation gain (about 750 total) makes for an excellent hike along and around Mandeville Canyon and its ridges.
Please no white flashlights, headlamps, etc. If you want to bring some light (not required/optional) use a green or red light. Here are some cheap and fun solutions. Buy one today — green is the best
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See http://www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=54 for park info
Bring food/snacks and drink to share — we’ll hike them to the top.
There are facilities at San Vicente Mountain Park including bathrooms, picnic tables, water and trash cans.
Map of Hike
Here is a map of our hike. Click, print and bring it with you

Directions to Trailhead
From Sunset Boulevard, 2.3 miles west of the 405 freeway, head north on Mandeville Canyon Road. Drive 4.8 miles, and turn left onto Garden Land Road. The trailhead is at end of road.
Parking Tip: There probably won’t be any parking available on Garden Land because its a very short residential street, so park on west side of Mandeville as close to the corner as possible
There are neighborhood homes around the trailhead, please keep noise to a minimum…..until hike starts 😉
Trivia: Did you know Mandeville Canyon Rd is reputed to be the longest paved dead-end road in Los Angeles
No Dogs
The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

Caballero Canyon - Gizmo Peak Loop - Sol Y Luna for Lunch
2019-06-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Caballero Canyon, 4002 Reseda Bl, Tarzana, CA, 91357, US
Join us for a short but heart-pounding hike through the old stomping grounds of Edgar Rice Burroughs in Caballero Canyon. We’ll take the Dinosaur Egg Trail to Mulholland, head up for a snack on Gizmo Peak, and return to car via the Caballero Canyon Trail
Hike is about 4 miles with over 1,000′ total ascent.
Post hike lunch is down the street at
Sol Y Luna
19601 Ventura Blvd
Tarzana California 91336
818-343-8488
Meet at the Caballero Canyon trailhead on Reseda Bl. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Reseda Blvd and turn south. Drive for about two miles. There is parking on both sides of the street; the trailhead is on the left across the street from Braemar Country club
The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

Eagle Rock the Hard (and Most Scenic) Way - Topanga State Park
2019-06-09 09:00 | Trippet Ranch, 20825 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA, 90290, US
Eagle Rock, the most impressive landmark in all of Topanga State Park, will afford us an airy perch overlooking the upper watershed of Santa Ynez Canyon and the ocean beyond. We will snack and explore on this impressive sandstone rock covered with crevices and caves. Our trip to the rock will traverse a seldom used trail across a large meadow, through tall chaparral and a shady oak forest and up along Cheney Ridge. We’ll be going a different route than most of you veterans have used so be prepared for some pleasant surprises. We’ll start in Trippet Ranch parking lot and end on Entrada Rd for a loop.
Here is a slide show with photos from previous hikes just like this one

Bring camera, plenty of water and snacks
Hike is about 5.5 miles with 1200 ft elevation gain
Bring a sack lunch and we’ll take an extended break on Eagle Rock — we’ll make a picnic out of it!
And if you are still hungry, post-hike brunch/lunch is at the Canyon Bistro
Directions
From Topanga Canyon Boulevard, turn east on Entrada Road; that’s to the left if you are coming from the San Fernando Valley. Follow Entrada Road by turning left at every opportunity until you arrive at Topanga State Park.
Park on street before the last left turn (and walk a couple blocks) or pay the iron ranger in the park ($15?). If you park on street be sure that your left wheels are inside the white line. Note parking restrictions. We’ll meet by at the benches by bathrooms.
The official hike will end on the street outside of pay area.
The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

National Trails Day - Hike at the Malibu Reagan Ranch
2019-06-01 09:00 - 12:00 | Paramount Ranch – HWD, 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, ca, 91301, US
National Trails Day is a celebration of trails that evolved from the report of President Ronald Reagan’s President’s Commission on Americans Outdoors. In 1987, the report recommended that all Americans be able to go out their front doors and within fifteen minutes, be on trails that wind through their cities or towns and bring them back without retracing steps. The recommendation, dubbed Trails for All Americans, became the impetus behind several public and private parties joining American Hiking Society in launching National Trails Day® in 1993. National Trails Day is always the first Saturday in June.
In light of the history of NTD, this year we’ll celebrate at the old Reagan Ranch

Details
Reagan Ranch (1957-1967), now part of Malibu Creek State Park, is a delight for hikers, who can enjoy the ranch’s rolling meadow-land and grand old oaks. Trails loop through the Reagan Ranch and connect with the main part of the state park. We’ll use a combination of trails–Yearling, Deer Leg, Lookout, Crags Road and Cage Canyon–to explore Reagan Country and the heart of the park.
We’ll also be visiting the exterior set for the long-running television show M*A*S*H. The medic tents have been removed, but the location is still recognizable, providing a rich experience for hikers. (See note below)

Between the MASH set and the ranch we’ll enjoy a short snack break at Century Lake. Part of the famous jump into the river by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (Paul Newman & Robert Redford) was done by stuntmen at Century Lake because the river in Colorado seen in the film wasn’t deep enough to support such a high jump.

On our return to the ranch we’ll take a side trip to a scenic vista point at the top of Lake View Trail will It will provide us a beautiful view of Malibou Lake and the surrounding mountains. Reagan was the honorary mayor of Malibou Lake in 1953.

Hike will be about 7 miles with 1,000 feet total ascent (see note below). Brings snacks and 2 qts water. Here are some pics from previous hike — click on a pic to enlarge

We were there shortly after Woolsey fire and conditions then would alter this hike as written. Check back often for updates as I get more info on current conditions —
Update: Parking and meeting spot has changed to Paramount Ranch (see below). Contractors continue to use Reagan Ranch parking as staging area for post Woolsey fire work.

Post-Hike Lunch
Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie
29281 Agoura Road
Agoura Hills, CA 91301, USA
818.477.4566
On the northwest corner of Kanan and Agoura Rd (behind Islands)
Directions:
From the Ventura Freeway (US 101) in Agoura take the Kanan Road off-ramp and turn south. Follow Kanan, turn left on Cornell Way, bear right onto Cornell Road for about 3 blocks. Turn right at the main gate to Paramount Ranch.
From PCH turn north onto Kanan for 6 miles then turn right onto Mulholland. After 5.5 miles turn left onto Cornell Rd. Turn left into Paramount Ranch
Parking
WHEN YOU ENTER PARAMOUNT RANCH GO TO THE END OF THE ENTRANCE ROAD (YOU’LL SEE IT AS YOU TURN IN) AND TURN LEFT. PARK NEAR THE END.

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The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

The Lost Trails of Zuniga - VIPs Only
2019-05-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Red Rock Canyon Park, 23601 W. Red Rock Road, Old Topanga, CA, 90290, US

The Original E.T. Hike - 🐶s OK
2019-05-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Limekiln Canyon – Corbin Trail Head, 11336 Corbin Ave, Porter Ranch, CA, 91326
Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hikingwithdean/
We’ve been following the footsteps of ET since 2008! See https://www.hikingwithdean.com/event/the-original-et-hike/ for complete hike description with pictures and video
🍺Post hike lunch is at Islands down the street at 11400 Porter Ranch Dr
Don’t forget hiking gear for your dog: https://amzn.to/2JMLVEH
Directions
The trailhead is on Rinaldi St between Corbin and Tampa Aves north of the 118 fwy. From the 118 exit Tampa Av. Turn north toward the hills and make a left on Rinaldi. Drive about 0.2 mi and park at curb. Trailhead is on the north side across the street from World Vision Church. You can park on both sides of Rinaldi.

IMPORTANT
Trail statistics are approximate. For safety purposes always assume they are underestimated. But don’t be disappointed if they are overestimated. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.
Trail descriptions are based on previous hikes. Current conditions are unknown until arrival. Expect the unexpected and plan accordingly.
The Organizers and members in this group are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per the ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER.

🌻The Pentachaeta Loop
2019-05-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Triunfo Creek Park, 32176 Triunfo Canyon Rd, Westlake Village, CA, 91361
This one is another HWD original! I put this one together back in 2009 after exploring some Westlake Village use trails. With combination of use trails, some minor rock scrambling and views of two local lakes, the result is probably the best hike in Westlake Village.
Details
The Pentachaeta Trail, the main feature of Triunfo Creek Park, is named after the Pentachaeta lyonii, a federally-listed endangered flower found in the park. The yellow, daisy-like flower is found only in Southern California, and blooms between April and June.
We will join each end of the Pentachaeta Trail with the ridgeline that divides Triunfo and Lobo Canyons to make a 5.5-mile loop. Along the way we will have views of the Las Virgenes Reservoir and Westlake Reservoir (see if you can spot them in the photos below). We may do some peakbagging too! There is a total ascent of about 1,400 ft with 700′ of it in the first 1.5 miles, some of it rocky. A trekking pole (for a couple of downhill sections) and sturdy hiking boots recommended. The hike is more strenuous than it sounds.
Enjoy these pics from previous adventures. Click ona pic to enlarge

Don’t forget your trekking poles for this one (see pics above). If you don’t have any there is still time for delivery from amazon. I found these on sale at Amazon. Click on it for more selections

Photos from April 2016
https://www.meetup.com/localhikers/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=26932904
Photos from April 2013: http://www.meetup.com/localhikers/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=14559462
From December 2009 – ice on the trail! http://www.meetup.com/localhikers/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=780881
No beginners

This area was burned during Woolsey Fire and reopened January 11. I’m expecting some of the hidden trails I use to be more overgrown (and hidden) than usual. Expect the unexpected.

Post Hike Lunch
Artisan Pitfire Pizza
966 S Westlake Blvd #3, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
http://www.pitfirepizza.com
Located in Westlake Plaza behind Mendocino Farms
Directions
From the 101 Freeway exit Lindero Canyon Rd and turn south. At the end of Lindero, turn left onto Triunfo Canyon Rd. Park on street. Trailhead is on the right, across from entrance to Oak Forest Mobile Home Park. We meet there on street.
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.

😈Devils Canyon Loop - Special Edition
2019-05-11 09:00 - 15:00 | Twin Lakes, 11199 Canoga Ave, Chatsworth, CA, 91311
Literally step out of the Valley and into another world.
Our hike begins in Devils Canyon near the north end of Topanga Canyon Blvd. Devils Canyon with its spectacular rock formations created 80 million years ago in a marine environment makes for a haunting yet beautiful hike. Live Oak and Willow trees fill the canyon providing a shady hike. Sandstone geology of the wildest kind is found. There are many shallow stream crossings along the way.
However, we will be saving shady Devils Canyon for the second half of the hike. Shortly after entering the canyon we will turn west and up, out of the canyon and over to Johnson’s Motorway. Along the way we will stop at an old burned down ranch that once belonged to Mimi Couch of Simi Valley. We continue on to Rocky Peak Motorway where we turn north to the top of Devils Canyon, hike down the shady canyon and complete the loop.
I can find only these (hot) July 2013 pics of the same hike. I’ll look for more…Click on pic to enlarge

Estimated Mileage: 13
Estimated Total Ascent: 2300 feet
Directions: Take the 101 or 118 to Topanga Canyon Blvd. When on Topanga stay in the right lane to proceed under the 118. At the end of Topanga make a left on Poema Place for about 50-100 yards and park on street.
⚠I haven’t done this one for a while. Expect the unexpected

🐰 Rabbit Ridge Adventure Hike to Simi Peak and China Flats - PARTY AT LAMPPOST
2019-05-04 09:00 - 14:30 | Hidden Meadows Trailhead, 1915 Falling Star Ave, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91362, US
We will start out surrounded by wild lilacs and a stroll through Hidden Meadow. Soon we will be hiking among the fanciful sandstone formations, caves and arches of the Rabbit Ridge Trail. After a couple of miles we’ll ascend to Simi Peak where on a clear day you can see the Simi Valley, Conejo Valley, San Fernando Valley, Oxnard Plains, Pacific Ocean, and a few of the Channel Islands, and take our snack break. Then its onward to a loop around China Flats, an open area with clusters of oak trees and a vernal pond. China Flats was the filming area for Back to the Future’s 1885 Hill Valley.
Here are some highlights
Click on pic to enlarge

…and
Simi Peak – highest point in Simi
Little Tri Peaks
Falcon’s Roost
The One Tree
Hikers’ Nest
Bring your best lugsoles for this one. Trekking poles are recommended. If you don’t have any, try these:

This hike, an HWD Original (copied by some, duplicated by none) dates back to early 2008. It is a strenuous 8.5 to 9 miles with 1000 ft net elevation gain (2200 total). A combination of utility roads, maintained, unmaintained and disappearing trails will create a dual loop hike. We’ll have our post-hike lunch at Lamppost Pizza
Directions to Trailhead
From Highway 101/Ventura Freeway in Westlake,
-Exit on Lindero Canyon Road.
-Drive 2.8 miles north on Lindero and turn left on Kanan Rd
-After 0.2 miles on Kanan turn right on Falling Star Ave.
-Drive 1.2 mi all the way around to the end of the street and park. Trailhead is in a residential neighborhood so please keep noise level to a minimum.
From 23/Simi/Sunset Hills/TO, etc
– Exit Avenida De Los Arboles and go east to Westlake Blvd. Turn right
– Turn left onto Kanan for 2 miles
– Turn left on Windy Mountain, then left on Grey Feather, then left on Falling Star
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.

Evening Hike to Murphy Ranch in Rustic Canyon
2019-05-01 16:30 - 18:30 | Sullivan Ridge at Casale Rd, Capri Drive and Casale Road, Los Angeles, CA, 90272, US
Join our Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/hikingwithdean/
For those that have never heard about it, the ranch is allegedly a 1930s hideout where NAZI/Third Reich sympathizers could sequester themselves until German rule had been established in the USA
The property was developed by Winona and Norman Stephens and a German national by the name of Herr Schmidt. The design implemented was an installation of several buildings, fuel tanks, and multiple massive cisterns. The entire complex, according the plans of Herr Schmidt, was to be self-sustaining even if it suffered years of isolation from the outside society
The FBI raided the ranch in 1941 and that was the end of that until the 50’s when an artist’s colony was established.
My research indicates that this is an urban legend. There may be no Herr Schmidt, it was not a Nazi compound, and there was no raid. It is true that Winona and Norman Stephens built a self-sustaining ranch here. Presumably they were convinced by a Herr Schmidt, who may have been a Nazi sympathizer, to build it due to a belief that German National Socialism would reach US soil. But there is absolutely no evidence that it was a Nazi hideout, compound or anything like that.
Here is the 1975 book, now a collector’s item, that popularized the whole story:

Hike will be about 4-5 miles with moderate elevation gain. Here are some pics from the last two versions:

Directions to Trailhead
From Sunset Boulevard, 3 miles west of the 405, turn north at the light onto Capri Drive. After 1/3 mile continue through the traffic circle, remaining on Capri Drive for another 1/3 mile until it comes to and end at Casale Road. Sullivan Ridge Fire road begins to the left but do not turn left on Casale Rd. Find street parking to the right or on an adjacent roads. After you park, walk to the end of Casale Rd. This is where we will meet and check in.
You will be parking in a residential neighborhood with parking restrictions — pay attention to signs.
Interactive Map: http://goo.gl/maps/r7nN8

Evening Hike: Heartbreak Hill - Liberty Canyon - Phantom Trail Loop
2019-04-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Heartbreak Hill Trailhead, 27619 Agoura Rd, Agoura, CA, US
Join us for a 4.5 mile loop hike into the Liberty Canyon Preserve by way of Heartbreak Hill. They don’t call the hill “Heartbreak” for nothing. The first half mile contains a 500 ft elevation gain. The next mile has a couple rolling hills. After that its all downhill on the Phantom Trail into Liberty Canyon. We will exit the Preserve on Liberty Canyon Trail and return to Agoura Rd along residential Liberty Canyon Rd.
Its not as bad as it sounds. Since the strenuous section is short, this is a good hike for moderate hikers to test themselves. Net elevation gain is about 650 ft, total ascent 1,075 ft

Bring one quart water, and a rewarding snack for the top
Directions:
From Highway 101, exit on Liberty Canyon Road and drive 0.1 mile south to Agoura Road. Turn right and drive 0.3 mile. Trail head will be on the left. Park on either side of the road.
Address on map is approximate. Here is what the trail head looks like

Wilson Canyon - Los Pinetos Spring Loop
2019-04-14 09:00 - 15:00 | Wilson Canyon Park, 14450 Olive View Dr, Sylmar, CA, 91342, US
Wilson Canyon is named after the same person as in Mt. Wilson — Benjamin Davis “Don Benito” Wilson, merchant, landowner, civic leader, as well as Los Angeles mayor from 1851 to 1852. Wilson Canyon was purchased by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and opened as a park in 1996.
Trekking poles will come in handy (but not required). Bring them if you got them. If you don’t have any, I found a good deal on Amazon (HWD is an Amazon affiliate)

Our hike will begin in Wilson Canyon Park. Oak woodlands, an alder-lined creek and commanding San Fernando Valley vistas are some of the attractions of Wilson Canyon. After visiting an old abandoned miniature golf course and some artifacts from pre-Sylmar quake Olive View Hospital, we’ll connect with a seldom used single track trail and begin our climb along the eastern ridge of the canyon.

After a couple more miles we leave Conservancy land and enter the Angeles National Forest. There won’t be many trees, but the ridges will be carpeted with emerald green grass and blooming scrub. Soon we will reach the Wilson Saddle on the Santa Clara Divide.

While we are in the area we’ll bag Los Pinetos Peak (not officially a named peak). Los Pinetos Peak is a highpoint along the Santa Clara Divide Road. Host to an array of communication towers, the summit affords generous views of the Santa Clarita Valley to the North, Los Angeles to the South, the San Gabriel Mountains to the East, and the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific Ocean to the West

Cindy, Gloria and I scouted out this hike last February. It will be about a 12 mile loop with about 2,600 ft total ascent. Save the date
Post hike Lunch at Fiddlers Three –
12721 Glenoaks Blvd, 91342-4749 Sylmar
Directions
Park on Olive View Dr and meet at park entrance

Park on street. We will meet by the green sign

The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.

Volunteer Opportunity! Post-fire trail work in Malibu (Circle X Ranch)
2019-04-10 08:30 - 12:30 | Mishe Mokwa Trailhead Parking Lot, Yerba Buena Road, Westlake Village, CA 91361, Westlake Village, CA, 91361, US
Volunteers will be working with individuals from the National Park Service and the Santa Monica Mtns Fund to repair trails burned in the Woolsey Fire of 2018. After the fire, soil and rock no longer held together by plant roots allowed many trails to become much more narrow. The recent rains eroded many trails and allowed for plant regrowth to hide the trail corridor. Using hand tools, we will redefine and reshape hiking trails. This work not only improves public access and safety, but it also protects recovering vegetation by clearly defining trail boundaries.
What to know: You may walk 1- 2 miles with your backpack and a tool! You will be swinging a hand tool repetitively, it is hard work but many come to think of it as fun 🙂 Safety is paramount, you will likely be asked to wear a hard hat.
What to wear: Sturdy shoes or boots (closed toe only); wear long pants (NO SHORTS) and long sleeve shirt
What to bring: Backpack, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, gloves (if you have them), hat and a snack
***We have a capacity on attendance for this event due to limited resources like parking and leadership. If it is sold out please be on the lookout for future trail work dates or we may add extra tickets last minute! This event is popular so please be sure you can attend before requesting a ticket. Carpooling is great! If you carpool to the location with a friend you will only need to request one ticket***
Significant rain will cancel!
Directions from Westlake Village: Exit on Westlake Blvd from the 101 Freeway, and follow it south for several miles as it merges with Mulholland highway. Turn right onto Little Sycamore Canyon and it will become Yerba Buena Road as you cross the county line. Proceed on Yerba Buena Road for about 4 miles to trailhead (about a mile before you hit the Circle X Ranch Ranger Station).
Directions from Agoura: Exit on Kanan Rd from the 101 Freeway, and follow it south for several miles. Turn right onto Mulholland highway, after about a mile make another right to stay on Mulholland. Turn right onto Little Sycamore Canyon and it will become Yerba Buena Road as you cross the county line. Proceed on Yerba Buena Road for about 4 miles to trailhead (about a mile before you hit the Circle X Ranch Ranger Station).
This road becomes very narrow and is not an easy drive even for those familiar with the area. Please give yourself ample time to arrive and go slowly around the blind curves! BE PREPARED lose cell phone sevice during your drive!
Contact Tara Hallman for any questions. email: tara_hallman@partner.nps.gov
