Hiking with Dean

Hike at Whiting Ranch - Wahoo's Parking Lot
2024-10-27 08:00 - 10:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Wahoo’s Fish Taco, 27412 Portola Parkway, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610, US
This hike will be about 5.4 miles total with 820 ft. of elevation gain.
We are starting at the parking lot at the Wahoo’s parking lot. We will take Live Oak Trail. This turns into Serrano Road which will take us to Serrano Cow Trail. At this part of the trail, we usually see a ton of deer, so cross your fingers! We will get on Sleepy Hollow Trail. This will take us up to Santiago Ranch Road to Cactus Hill. We will take a short break at Four Corners. Then we will come down Whiting Road. Then we will take us back to Serrano Cow Trail and head the same way back to the parking lot.
Here is a link to the park map: http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=15841
If you have any questions, let me know! I’m looking forward to the hike!
*Dogs are not allowed at this park.
Parking is free in the lot.

Red Rock Canyon - Potluck Hike
2024-10-27 16:00 - 20:00 | 1699 Stunt Rd, 1699 Stunt Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
Easy-Intermediate, 4 miles, 800′ gain.
Option not to hike:
If for some reason you don’t want to hike but still want to come, the social event can be driven to, and the main group of hikers should get there about an hour after we begin: 23601 W Red Rock Rd, Topanga, CA 90290. It costs $5 to park there, MasterCard/Visa accepted.
We’ll be passing through a beautiful canyon with huge red, pale purple, and tan sandstone walls.
The hike begins with a steady climb on a fire road for 0.75 mile. We turn right at the junction and begin heading mostly down another fire road for about 1.25 miles.
There will be a picnic area on the right, where we’ll enjoy a potluck picnic. Please bring food, drinks to share. If your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks, etc., please bring them. You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any.
The picnic area is wooded and shaded. Consider bringing insect repellent.
We’ll return the way we came after about 1.5 hours.
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. Click HERE for the route.
Navigation: Host memory, and others that have done this route.
Hike type: Social.
We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping, even if it means every 50 steps.
Directions:
1699 Stunt Rd
Calabasas, CA 91302
Park in the gravel along the street.
The Hike:
Distance: 4.0 miles, with option for 0.
Elevation Gain: 800′, with option for 0.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate.
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.
Restrooms: No.
Drinking Fountains: There is water.
Parking: Free, along the gravel lot on the street. Arrive early to get a spot that doesn’t require high clearance. $5 to park at the Social event area.
Trail: Fire road.
Purpose: Social
What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
If your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks, etc., please bring them. Consider also bringing your own plate, cup and utensils.
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Rosewood Trail to Angel Vista - Gentler Intermediate
2024-10-29 09:00 - 11:00 | 150 Regal Oak Ct, 150 Regal Oak Ct, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
We will start our hike near the beginning of Regal Oak Ct. on the lower Rosewood Trail, a dirt trail heading up a shaded ravine at the base of the mountains, and continue to the usual Rosewood trail. Rosewood trail presents a clear view over the 101 Freeway carving up the Conejo Valley. This is a preview of the panorama to come at Angel Vista, and the view grows larger as you hike higher up the mountain. At the top, the picnic table at Angel Vista offers one of the magnificent panoramic viewpoints in the Santa Monica Mountains in a coastal area including the Boney Mountains, Sandstone Peak and the rocky crown of Santa Monicas with Conejo Valley, the Oxnard Plains and (on a clear day) a couple of the Channel Islands.
This hike is about 5 miles with an elevation gain/loss approximately 900’.
Directions: From the 101 Freeway take Ventu Park Rd. south, turn right on Lynn Rd. and left on Regal Oak.
PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY
Please review our guidelines to participate in our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
Plan on KEEPING UP with the group and completing the entire hike at a moderate pace, or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No “Plus Ones” or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.

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

7 miles~ Los Robles Trail West ~ Intermediate Hike w/ longer option
2024-10-29 09:00 - 11:30 | Los Robles Trail, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, United States
FALL SEASON: WE ARE BACK TO A 9:00a START TIME
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/f/8/6/event_22189030.jpeg
Space Mountain is the name for Los Robles Trail West, starting at Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks and switchbacking up the hill to the west. No one seems to know why it’s called Space Mountain, though maybe the Disney ride inspired the name.
We’ll hike up towards Angel Vista but we’ll retrace our steps before reaching the newer extension to Angel Vista.
We will hike about 7 miles total with about 1200’ of gain.
UPDATE: Please review the revised guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” listNo “Plus Ones” on this hikePlan on completing the entire hike at a brisk pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
Directions: From the 101 in Thousand Oaks, turn south on Moorpark Road. We will meet in the parking lot at the corner of Moorpark and Greenmeadow.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
There are no “Plus Ones” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No dogs.

Tapo Canyon Tar Pits - Easy Intermediate
2024-10-29 18:00 - 21:30 | 3803 Tapo Canyon Rd, 3803 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, US
5.4 miles, 1050′ gain, Easy Intermediate
This hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in Simi Valley. There are 3 extended inclines, about 1000 steps each, on fire road. They are not especially steep, but they do continue for some time, which is why it is rated “Easy Intermediate.” There are also several small hills of 100 steps or less.
The extended inclines will get the blood pumping during this lollipop hike. We’ll be moving through the famous Tapo Canyon and visiting natural tar pits that bubble up from the ground.
The first pit is really a puddle that looks like someone spilled a couple 55-gallon drums of tar that was later contained using a spill rope. The next two are a little larger, again, contained by spill ropes to keep the sticky black tar from getting on the trail. You will see dinosaurs and sometimes body parts, and I’m not kidding.
From the trail head, we’ll start on a leisurely stroll for about 0.6 miles, followed by a steady climb for the next mile, completing the first extended incline.
We’ll turn left at the junction, climb a small hill of a couple hundred steps, and then head down for 1.5 miles.
We’ll make a right turn down a smaller trail and go for about 100 yards until we reach the tar pits. After looking around for a bit, we’ll head back, and after 0.25 miles, we’ll come to another junction where we will stop and share snacks and beverages.
For the return, we’ll turn left and there will be a steady climb for about 3/4 of a mile to another junction. We’ll turn left again and return down for about 1.4 miles to complete the lollipop.
Easy option (no host): 3 miles, 300′ gain.
Park at 5079 Westwood St, Simi Valley, CA 93063. Follow Cottonwood Dr/Yosemite Ave south (down) 1000′ to the trailhead. Enter and turn immediately left. After 350′, there is a split. It doesn’t matter which you take. The right (upper) is single-track, the left (lower) is fire road. After ½ mile, the two trails merge into the fire road. After 600′, you arrive at the tar pits. Keep going another 600′, left at the dead end, and 1/3rd mile to the social event location. Return the way you came.
Directions:
Tapo Canyon
3802 Tapo Canyon Road
Simi Valley, CA 93063
From the 118:
Exit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.
Tapo Canyon Rd. north for 1.7 miles.
Trail head on the right, before Lost Canyon Rd.
Parking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
From CA-23:
CA-23 north to CA-118 east.
CA-118 east for 8.7 miles.
Exit 27 Tapo Canyon Rd.
Tapo Canyon Rd. north (left) for 1.7 miles.
Trail head on the right.
Parking is free in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
Hike
Distance: 5.4 miles, Easy Option: 3 miles
Gain: 1050′, Easy Option 300′
Distribution: Reasonably well distributed.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate
Shape: Lollipop, clockwise.
Pace: 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road and double track. Areas of sand, gravel, and rock, some of it rugged.
Trail Variations:
Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.
Several steep sections of 300 steps, but no hands required.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free in the gravel area in front of the trail head, and along the road on both sides.
What to bring:
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.
Hike type: Social.
Stops:
The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point, which we will pass, and then return to after seeing the tar pits.
We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker.
Each hiker is responsible for knowing their capability, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Oakbrook Vista Trail and Sandstone Hill Trail - Intermediate
2024-10-30 16:30 - 18:30 | Oakbrook Vista Trailhead, 3222 Lang Ranch Parkway, Thousand Oaks, CA, US
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike

What we’ll do:
Hike Oakbrook Vista trail to the crest of the ridge. Go left on the Sandstone Hills until it intersects power line roads. This will be a 5+ miles round trip, and 1300 ft elevation). Trails are wide and easy. There will be no sweep. This is an in- and-out-hike on same trail.
Directions:
From the East, West & South – take the 101 toward Thousand Oaks. Exit at Westlake Boulevard and turn north (away from the ocean). Drive 4.1 miles and turn right on the Lang Ranch Parkway. Continue 0.3 mile along Lang Ranch Parkway. You’ll need to turn around and park across the street from the entrance to the Oakbrook Vista Trailhead (do not park on the same side of the road as the trailhead).
From the North – take the 23 south toward Thousand Oaks. Exit at the Avenida De Los Arboles exit and turn left (east) on Avenida De Los Arboles. Drive 1.5 miles and turn right on Westlake Boulevard. Drive 0.2 miles and turn left on the Lang Ranch Parkway. Park by the trailhead or across the street from the entrance to the Oakbrook Vista Trailhead.
3222 Lang Ranch Pkwy
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Parking:
Free on-street parking is available along both sides of Lang Ranch Parkway. Please do not leave anything of value in your car, at this or any other trailhead.
Essentials:
Please bring – at least two liters of water, snacks, an extra layer of clothing, a charged cell phone, identification, a HEADLAMP OR FLASHLIGHT, a small first-aid kit, bug repellent and sunscreen, a waterproof shell if rain is forecast, and any medications or anything else you might need on the trail.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
PLEASE CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS!
** Anyone under 18 years of age must be acompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
No dogs are allowed on the hike.
** Any last minute issues – my cell # 818-523-8719.
Linda L.

Western Plateau Hawk Canyon - Gentler Friendly
2024-10-31 09:00 - 11:00 | Conejo Canyons Trail Head, 2010 Conejo Center Dr, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91320, US
Meet at the Conejo Canyons trailhead next to the Thousand Oaks Recycling Center on Conejo Center Drive, near the end of Rancho Conejo. We’ll walk down the fire road to Hawk Canyon and then we will take Hawk Canyon to Five Points. From Five Points, we will take the Western Plateau trail up to intersection with the Plateau Rim trail. We will take the Plateau Rim trail , the Peninsula Loop trail and the Western Plateau trail back to the car.
The total distance of this lollipop hike is about 5 miles with approximately 800′ gain. Some of the sections are rocky; trekking poles may be advisable.
On this hike, you’ll see the Conejo Airfield (honest!), Mt. Rex’s backside, at least two wrecked cars, lots of fennel, and maybe a rattlesnake and a tarantula or two. Plus, impressive views of the Santa Susannah Mountains (if it’s clear), two or three rocky canyons, and the new biotech developments nearby.
UPDATE: Please review the revised guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike at an intermediate pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs allowed.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

🌃👻Halloween Hike - The Ghosts of Scary Dairy 😱(EZ Night Version)
2024-10-31 18:00 - 20:00 | Scary Dairy, Amphitheater Way, Camarillo, CA, 93012, United States
Spooky Night version! This hike is rated “CREEPY” due to past murders and mayhem. Dangers along the way include ghosts and phantoms. Scroll down for the ghost stories. Here is the origin story:
On October 12th, 1936, the Camarillo State Mental Hospital opened its doors taking in the sick and mentally ill. Not just a single building, but an entire campus of buildings, the hospital was very successful and by 1957 had grown to over 7000 patients!
In addition to electroshock therapy and lobotomies was the establishment of a 🐮dairy nearby the hospital. Patients that were able participated in working at this dairy, taking care of the animals, and growing vegetables. The food produced from the therapy programs at this dairy went directly to feeding the inmates and staff at the hospital.
😨Patients were forced to slaughter animals in the dairy. Some say murders happened there. In some stories it’s patients murdering people and in others it’s staff murdering patients
In the 1960s the hospital closed the dairy, simply abandoning the buildings. By 1997, the hospital also closed, and was left slowly falling apart. Many of the structures are heavily graffitied still clearly recognizable.
👻Ghostly Encounters
Numerous phantoms have been seen around or in the bell tower. There is the ghost of a man who appears in the stalls of one of the women’s restrooms, you can see his legs, only to disappear when you open the door. A woman around the bell tower asks for directions to the chapel before disappearing. In some of the abandoned buildings, students have reported running into a woman in a hospital gown who silently screams at them before vanishing. A ghostly janitor haunts the school; the sound of his phantom keys jingling alerting those to his presence. The bus stop near the bell tower is also haunted by a ghost. And with all these ghosts so far, it comes as no surprise that there’s a woman in white. 👩‍⚕️She is assumed to be a nurse who roams the bell tower’s hallways only to disappear when approached.
Hike is a 2.5 mile loop with 180′ total ascent and rated EASY See the HWD Hike Rating Guide
Directions
Take Lewis Road south to Camarillo Street and turn left (east). Cross the bridge over Calleguas Creek and the entrance is on the left. Parking is $6 per vehicle (as of 2023)

Los Padres - Easy/Spooky Intermediate
2024-10-31 18:00 - 21:30 | Los Padres Trailhead, 15 Los Padres Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361, US
3.5 miles, 600′ gain, Easy Intermediate
Easy Option: 2.4 miles, 285′ gain, Fit Beginner
Halloween Hike – costumes encouraged!
Time for another haunted HP hike, join us for a terrifying time on trail.
We enter the Los Padres trail through a spooky oak covered section, then move through until we come to a dead end. We’ll turn right, and continue climbing up. We’ll come to another junction, where we’ll turn right onto the Los Robles trail.
After 500 feet, we’ll come to a split off to the right. We’ll take this split and continue along the Vista Loop until we come to a bench. Then we’ll start heading down, and when we come to the “Giants Picnic Table”, which I call that because its parts are super thick.
We’ll stop for a social event and share snacks and drinks for 30-60 minutes, before continuing down and around for our return.
Easy Option: In the reverse direction as the rest of the group, go 350′ to the end of Los Padres Dr., left on S. Moorpark Rd. for 1000′. Enter the trail and follow it for about a mile. It will curve left and you will arrive at the social event.
Hike Distance: 3.5 miles, easy option 2.4 miles.
Gain: 600′, each option 285′.
Distribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate.
Shape: Loop.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire Road, Single-Track, and Double-Track.
Trail Variations:
Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.
Several steep sections of 300 steps, but no hands required.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along street.
What to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as a link on this line.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.
Hike type: Social.
We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK).
Stops:
The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker.
Interesting Notes
These are a couple plants you are likely to see on this hike:
Yucca
White flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo or soap. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA.
Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. To eat root, remove skin and core, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. Adam says they taste like radishes. The fruit is also edible, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water, or, lightly pound leaves with rock or club, or, scrape off skin. Roll between hands, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage.
Wild Cucumber
Toxic. Boil fruit in water to make spikes easy to remove. Inside is a natural luffa. Tubars (thickened part of a stem, usually underground, like the potato) can be crushed and thrown into water to immobilize fish.
Almost the entire plant is poisonous. The prickly “cucumbers” consist not of fleshy fruit, but of two seed chambers containing lacy netting.
Directions
Los Padres Trailhead
15 Los Padres Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA, 91361
From I-101
West of CA-23, I-101, exit S. Moorpark Rd.
South on Moorpark Rd. north for 1000 ft.
Left on Los Padres Dr.
After 200 ft, trailhead on the right.
Park on the street.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

ANZA-BORREGO: Weekend Car Camp
2024-11-01 12:00 - 2024-11-03 12:00 | Agua Caliente County Park, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849,, Julian, CA, 92036, US
This event is a car camp, come enjoy beautiful Anza-Borrego with us!
Please read the entire event description:
2024’s SDB Annual Picnic will be held in Agua Caliente at group site CA1.
Parking:
All parking spots have been claimed (Updated July 17, 2024).
The group site officially allows 10 vehicles. Any vehicles exceeding the allotted 10 will pay a parking fee upon park entry. Additional parking may be allowed by the park at site CA1 or in designated parking areas throughout the grounds within walking distance.
PLEASE READ:
Free parking will be first come, first served. (All parking has been claimed as of July 17, 2024.)
After paying MeetUp attendance fee, please open the following spreadsheet and add your information to claim a free parking spot.
Car Park Sign-Up
Agua Caliente is located in Anza-Borrego and has geothermally heated springs! The facilities host three naturally fed pools, two are cooled and one is 102°. Children are not allowed into the hottest pool but may enjoy the two cooler ones.
The park has paved roads kids enjoy riding bikes on. There are hiking trails nearby.
Agua Caliente County Park
Group Site CA1 has a large BBQ, five individual BBQs, a large pavillion with shaded picnic tables, and a large group fire pit.
There are showers in the spa room that take quarters to operate. Please bring quarters if you plan to use. There are restrooms throughout the campground.
ITINERARY:
🌵Friday
🌞 Arrivals, 2:00PM Check-In
🌵Saturday
🌞 Late Arrivals
🌞 Optional hike through Moonlight Canyon to Sawtooth Mountains inner pasture
🌞 SDB Potluck Picnic 5:00PM
🌵Sunday
🌞 Hot spring soak at 9:30AM
🌞 12:00PM Check-Out
Optional Hike Details:
Leave on foot from camp.
Beginner/Intermediate
5 miles roundtrip.
950′ elevation gain.
Hike through Moonlight Canyon to the Inner Pasture at Sawtooth Mountains.
This trail is brushy in some places. There are cholla throughout the area.
Estimated time to complete is 3 hours. Possible further exploration of the inner pasture according to group interest.
Suggested equipment:
• Hiking boots or trail hikers
• Day pack for day hike
• Layered clothing for a cool night and potentially warm day
• Tent
• Sleeping bag and pad
• Cooking gear, plate/bowl, cup, utensils
• Ten essentials; map, compass, light, extra food & water, extra clothing, fire starter, knife, first aid kit, sun protection & toilet paper
• Chair
Please bring wood to contribute to our group fires.
Food:
Bring the kitchen, this will be a car camp.
Please bring an item to share at out Potluck Picnic on Saturday.

DISCLAIMER: Hike and swim at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for this event, you agree to not hold anyone but yourself accountable for whatever happens to you. We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.

SDB SHIRT & BOOK BUNDLE: Please Read Event Description
2024-11-01 12:00 - 2024-11-03 12:00 | Agua Caliente County Park, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849,, Julian, CA, 92036, US
Please do not enter this event if you are not committed to purchasing a commemorative “10 Year” bundle. No refunds will be dispersed. If you no longer wish to receive your bundle, we will consider your payment a donation to San Diego Backpackers.
📢 Please read the following directions:
❗This event will be used to collect orders to be dispersed at our 10 Year Anniversary celebration in Agua Caliente November 1-3.
❗If you are not attending the 10 Year event, please contact Eddie before purchasing to inquire about shipping.
Bundle Ordering Instructions:
✅ Pay the $30 event fee to secure your purchase.
✅ Answer the event question regarding t-shirt size or message Eddie.
✅ Attend our 10 Year celebration between November 1-3 in Agua Caliente to pick up your bundle or message Eddie regarding shipping.
⚠️ Only 10 bundles available!
⚠️ Books will not be sold at the 10 Year event due to printing fees.
Bundle Contents:
1 Hardcover “10th Anniversary Yearbook”
1 Black Unisex SDB Logo Tee

DISCLAIMER: Hike and swim at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for this event, you agree to not hold anyone but yourself accountable for whatever happens to you. We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries. By purchasing a commemorative shirt + book bundle, you are donating $30 to San Diego Backpackers, no refunds will be dispersed.

SDB Annual Picnic - 2024
2024-11-01 14:00 - 2024-11-03 12:00 | Agua Caliente County Park, 39555 Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849,, Julian, CA, 92036, US
Please join us for our annual picnic!
More details to be updated later.
Please read the entire event description.
2024’s SDB Annual Picnic will be held in Agua Caliente at group site CA1.
Occupancy 50 with 10 vehicles.
Event cost is $20 per person. Fees will be used to cover event costs. Any overage will be donated to San Diego Backpackers to assist with MeetUp usage fees.
The group site officially allows 10 vehicles. Any vehicles exceeding the alotted 10 will pay a parking fee upon park entry. Additional parking may be allowed at site CA1 or in designated parking areas throughout the park.
PLEASE READ:
Free parking will be first come, first served.
After paying MeetUp attendance fee, please open the following spreadsheet and add your information to claim a free parking spot.
Car Park Sign-Up
Agua Caliente is located in Anza-Borrego and has geothermally heated springs! The facilities host three naturally fed pools, two are cooled and one is 102°.
Kids are welcome!
The park has paved roads kids enjoy riding bikes on. There are hiking trails nearby.
Agua Caliente County Park
Group Site CA1 has a large BBQ, five individual BBQs, a large pavillion with shaded picnic tables, and a large group fire pit.
There are showers in the spa room that take quarters to operate. Please bring quarters if you plan to use. There are restrooms throughout the campground.
ITINERARY:
🌵Friday
🌞 Arrivals, 2:00PM Check-In
🌵Saturday
🌞 Late Arrivals
🌞 Optional hike through Moonlight Canyon to Sawtooth Mountains inner pasture
🌞 SDB Potluck Picnic 5:00PM
🌵Sunday
🌞 Hot spring soak at 9:30AM
🌞 12:00PM Check-Out
Optional Hike Details:
Leave on foot from camp.
Beginner/Intermediate
5 miles roundtrip.
950′ elevation gain.
Hike through Moonlight Canyon to the Inner Pasture at Sawtooth Mountains.
This trail is brushy in some places. There are cholla throughout the area.
Estimated time to complete is 3 goura. Possible further exploration of the inner pasture according to group interest.
Suggested equipment:
• Hiking boots or trail hikers
• Day pack for day hike
• Layered clothing for a cool night and potentially warm day
• Tent
• Sleeping bag and pad
• Cooking gear, cup, utensils
• Ten essentials; map, compass, light, extra food & water, extra clothing, fire starter, knife,
• first aid kit, sun protection & toilet paper
• Chair
• Anything that will make you comfortable.
Food:
Bring the kitchen, this will be a car camp.
Please bring an item to share at out Potluck Picnic on Saturday.

DISCLAIMER: Hike and swim at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for this event, you agree to not hold anyone but yourself accountable for whatever happens to you. We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.

Cooper Canyon Via Cloudburst Summit
2024-11-02 07:30 - 11:30 | Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, 90275, United States
DESCRIPTION:
This is a 7 mile out-and-back hike near Palmdale, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. We will start on the Pacific Crest Trail and hike to Cooper Canyon Falls. As of a few weeks ago there was a lot of water flowing. For those who are on the adventurous side, we will be climbing down approx. 15-20 feet to a large pool at the base of the waterfall. There are ropes to assist going down. If you are not comfortable climbing up and down to the base of the falls, you can enjoy the view from the top. Hiking poles are recommended as we will be crossing over some water.
Our return route is the Pacific Crest Trail and then transitioning to a trail that parallels the PCT to go back. There will be a bathroom at the end of this trail closer to where we parked. There is limited parking at the start of the trail but there is parking across the street and another lot down the road on the same side as the trail.
DETAILS:

Hike Organizer(s): Michele E. + Tim R.
Meet: California Section D, Pearblossom, at 7:15 am, departure at 7:30 am sharp (Nov 02).
Distance: Approximately 7.3 miles.
Elevation gain: Approximately 1,804 feet.
Time: Approximately 4.0 hours hiking including a snack break.
Conditioning: You need to be in generally good physical condition.
Dogs: Dogs are allowed.
Restrooms: None.
Adventure Pass: Required.

IMPORTANT NOTES: We’ll hike at a brisk pace and ask everyone to stay with the group for a friendly and safe outing. Hiking may be hazardous due to uneven footing, stream crossings, exposures, snakes, bugs, poison oak, etc. Please be aware of your abilities and their limits. You are responsible for your own safety and well-being. This event may be cancelled due to inclement weather or other conditions. You can check the weather and other conditions on the AllTrails GPS Trail Map link below.
ESSENTIAL GEAR: Hiking boots and poles. Clothing layers recommended. Snacks and 2+ liters of water and electrolytes or salt tablets. Hat and sunscreen.
The Ten Essentials of Hiking (link)
THIS HIKE RANKING: Level 3, Intermediate (see chart below).
Please only sign up to attend hikes that are consistent with your ability. Based on your hiking during the last 90 days, how would you score on the CHC Hike rating scale of one to five assuming a brisk pace?
CHC HIKE RANKING SCALE:
1. Beginner: 1-3 miles, less than 500 feet elevation gain.
2. Beginner/Intermediate: 1-7 miles, less than 700 feet elevation gain.
3. Intermediate: 5-10 miles, 1000-2000 feet elevation gain.
4. Intermediate/Advanced: 7-12 miles, up to 3000 feet elevation gain.
5. Advanced: 10-17 miles, 3000 feet or more elevation gain.
TRAILHEAD LOCATION: California Section D, Pearblossom, CA 93553.
Driving Directions (link)
NAVIGATION: We highly recommend the AllTrails app be installed on your cell phones and/or you print a copy of the trail map so you can personally navigate the trail if you need to.
GPS Trail Map (link)
The Community Hiking Club is a Non-Profit 501C3 organization. We rely on donations to continue sponsoring hikes like this. Please contribute by donating via: Cash contribution (at each hike), or via Zelle at 6617135610; or via Venmo at: @Heidi-Webber-5
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY – IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
When you sign up for this event, you are releasing Community Hiking Club from any liability or responsibility with your participation in this group activity. While safety is a priority for everyone in the group, hiking can be inherently risky. By participating in any posted event, you are assuming responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Community Hiking Club (CHC) Meetup Group and its organizers and hike leaders are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in our events. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Community Hiking Club Meetup events, you are releasing the Community Hiking Club Meetup Group and Hike Leaders from all liability in case of possible injuries or death as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. If you sign up for this hike, you are verifying that this hike is within your abilities.

Hike to Strawberry Peak via Red Box Gap - San Gabriel Mountains
2024-11-02 07:30 - 11:30 | Red Box, Angeles National Forest, CA, 93550, United States
Let’s hike to Strawberry Peak in the San Gabriel Mountains again! This is the tallest summit in the front country of the San Gabriel’s.
This hike will take us to the peak via Red Box Canyon. It is a 7.5 mile out and back hike. The elevation gain will be around 1,900 ft. The peak elevation is at 6,165 ft. We will start on a trail known as Barley Road. We will hit a junction at South Strawberry Saddle Trail. We will take this to the Strawberry Peak Trail.
I would bring layers, plenty of water, snacks, good hiking boots/shoes, sunscreen, poles, hat….
Link to Google Maps:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Red+Box+Gap,+California+93550/@34.258613,-118.1050702,14z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x80c2e7d120714dbb:0x2d9dfdf2023ef65d
Dogs are allowed on these trails.
There is a restroom in the parking lot.
For parking, this hike requires an Adventure Pass. You can purchase a day pass for $5 or an annual pass for $30. Here is a link to where you can purchase either the day/annual pass. (Please purchase beforehand, as you cannot purchase it in the parking lot.) http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5181410&width=full
Please ask any questions you may have; I’ll do my best to answer them.

Sunset Hike: Los Liones to Parker Mesa Overlook
2024-11-02 16:00 - 19:00 | Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, 90275, United States
Sunset Hike: Los Liones to Parker Mesa Overlook
Join us for a stunning 7-mile sunset hike in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains on Saturday, November 2nd. We’ll meet at the trailhead for a 4:00pm departure, beginning on the lush Los Liones Trail, meandering through a vibrant canyon before connecting to a scenic fireroad. As we ascend to Parker Mesa Overlook at 1,525 feet, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, stretching from downtown to the majestic Palos Verdes.
This hike will culminate in a magical sunset at approximately 6:00 pm, with the thin crescent moon setting shortly thereafter, creating a perfect backdrop for our adventure. We’ll take a leisurely break at the overlook to enjoy some snacks and soak in the views before making our way back under the stars.
Details:
– Meeting Place: Los Liones Trailhead in Pacific Palisades, by the main “Los Leones Canyon” Gate at 4 p.m. (Free parking available along the road; please do not park in the Church Parking Lot).
– Mileage: 7.5 miles round trip
– Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
What to Bring:
– Sturdy hiking shoes
– 2 liters of water
– Snacks
– A headlamp for the return hike

Hike at O'Neill Regional Park + Brunch at Cook's Corner
2024-11-03 07:30 - 10:00 | O’Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA, 92679, US
The hike we will be doing is approximately 5 miles with 870 ft. of elevation gain.
We will begin at the Live Oak Trail trailhead. This is where you will see on the map that the Live Oak Trail hits the paved road. This is the parking lot closest to the Edna Spaulding Trail. (There should also be someone at the gate when you come in that can direct you where to go.)
We start by going up Live Oak Trail and up Vista Trail. We will take back Hoffman Homestead Trail, Coyote Trail, and back to Live Oak. This will take us back to where we started.
Overall, this will be a moderate hike with more of the hills while we’re on the Vista Trail.
If you have any questions before the hike, please feel free to ask.
Here is a link to the park map: https://www.ocparks.com/sites/ocparks/files/2021-04/O%27Neill%20Regional%20Park%20Map.pdf
The address is: 30892 Trabuco Canyon Rd. Trabuco Canyon, CA 9267
Dogs are not allowed on these trails.
Parking is $5 unless you have the OC Parks Annual Pass.

Chesebro Canyon MTB trail potluck hike - Time change & start time change
2024-11-03 15:00 - 19:00 | 5402 Chesebro Rd, 5402 Chesebro Rd, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, US
Time change & start time change, clocks “fall back” one hour
Fit Beginner 4.3 miles, 480′ gain.
Easier Option: 4 miles, 230′ gain.
We walk a mostly flat section for 1.1 mi. to the 2nd junction.
Easier option: Continue straight for 3/4 mi., left at the split, right after another 500′, arriving at some picnic tables on the right after another 750′.
Regular route: Left, heading up a switch back. Right at the top, and continue for 3/4 mi., turning right where it ends. Head down to the bottom, left at the split. After 750′, we arrive at some picnic tables on the right.
This is a pot luck picnic. Please bring something to eat and drink to share. If your item requires it, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren’t any. Pot Luck guidelines Link
We’ll share snacks and drinks for 60-90 minutes, then return by a straight path, no turns.
Fun Facts
What is MTB?
Answer: Mountain Bike (not Mountain Terrain Bike)
The name I see on a map is: Chesebro Canyon MTB Trail
Why is it spelled Cheeseboro Canyon, Chesebro Canyon MTB Trail, and Chesebro Rd?
The original owner of the land in the late 1800s was Oscar Cheesebrough. The NPS adopted the U.S. Geological Survey spelling of Cheeseboro, while Caltrans adopted the name Chesebro.
Reference Link
Hosting
Route
The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. The host may vary the route slightly.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.
Hike type: Social.
We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping, even if it means every 50 steps.
Stops:
We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns, else something will be used to mark the direction.
Each hiker is responsible for knowing their capability, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind.
Interesting Notes
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:
Black Sage
Multiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell.
A rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage.
Its flavor goes well with winter squashes, brown butter, poultry, venison, pears, cheese, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb.
Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain, specifically for the feet and lower legs.
Other
Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.
Directions
Chesebro Canyon MTB trail
5402 Chesebro Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
From I-101:
Exit Chesebro Rd..Palo Comado Canyon Rd.
Continue north. It becomes Palo Comado Canyon Rd and rotates west.
Right at Chesebro Rd. for 0.4 miles.
Park on the street.
After the 1 lane bridge, you’ve gone too far.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Learn New Skills-Make New Friends-Experience New Adventure
2024-11-04 23:15 - 2024-11-05 00:15 | Browns Canyon Rd Parking, Browns Canyon Road, Los Angeles, CA, 91311, United States
Learn New Skills-Make New Friends-Experience New Adventure
Details
Informational Posting Only – See Website at www.wildernesstravelcourse.org
INFORMATIONAL POSTING ONLY
www.wildernesstravelcourse.org
Dear Group Members, particularly the recent swell of new, never-been-backpacking-before-but-want-to-start members: There is a great Sierra Club opportunity that is about to begin….an opportunity that only happens one time each year and it is one of the best outdoor learning experiences the Sierra Club has to offer. This is the Angeles Chapter Wilderness Travel Course (WTC). Some of you have taken the course and are now leaders and/or knowledgeable hikers. For those of you who have not, enrollment in WTC is something you should consider now. The Wilderness Travel Course helps build outdoor skills so hikers can be safe in the backcountry. The course runs for ten weeks and includes four field trips (two one day and two weekend outings). Students learn map and compass navigation skills for competently hiking off-trail, snow travel, rock scrambling techniques, first aid, nutrition and lots more. The course is followed by unforgettable experience backpacking trips most of which take place in the High Sierra, Sequoia and Yosemite during the summer months.
WTC moves you from being a day hiker to a more serious adventurer. You will acquire skills in trip planning, preparation, equipment and wilderness safety to take you into the backcountry in all seasons, beyond roads and trails with new friends that share your interest in the outdoors.
Again, the course runs only one time each year and takes place in Southern California in four locations as follows: Long Beach/South Bay (Wednesdays beginning January 8th); San Gabriel Valley (Tuesdays beginning Jan 14th); West Los Angeles (Wednesdays beginning Jan 22nd; Orange County (Tuesdays beginning Jan 28th);
The four geographic areas fill up well in advance of the class start date so register early.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER FOR THE COURSE GO TO: www.wildernesstravelcourse.org (http://ww.wildernesstravelcourse.org/)

Learn New Skills-Make New Friends-Experience New Adventure
2024-11-04 23:15 - 2024-11-05 00:15 | Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, 90275, United States

Upper Stunt High Trail To Saddle Peak ~ Gentler Intermediate
2024-11-05 09:00 - 11:00 | UCLA Stunt Ranch Reserve, 1201 Stunt Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, US
This hike begins at Upper Stunt High Trail, a couple hundred feet to the right on the other side of the street from the parking lot. The trail winds upward gradually over switchbacks, giving way as the trail heads up to a dramatic rocky overlook with striking views of the Pacific, Stunt Ranch State Park, Calabasas Peak, and Old Topanga Canyon. There are also longer vistas northwest into Ventura County and east to the San Fernando Valley. We will see beautiful wooded areas and increasing views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Stunt Ranch State Park as we ascend. We eventually reach the Saddle Peak Trail via Backbone Trail and soon begin an easterly ridgeline walk high above the Pacific. This route will take us along and above spectacular tilted and pocketed sandstone formations, with dramatic views of the mountains and ocean as we proceed. There will be a little rock-scambling close to the top. We will take a short break at Saddle Peak and return back the same way.
It is about 5 miles round-trip with 1O00-1100 feet of elevation gain.
Directions:
From the 101 – exit at the Las Virgenes Road exit and go south (toward the ocean). Drive 3 miles to Mulholland Highway and make a left turn. Continue 4 miles to Stunt Road and turn right. Go just past the 1.94 mile marker at the entrance to the UCLA Stunt Ranch Reserve, park and meet in the asphalt pullout on the right.
From the PCH – turn up Malibu Canyon Road and drive 6.5 miles to Mulholland Highway. Turn right and continue 4 miles to Stunt Road. Go just past the 1.94 mile marker at the entrance to the UCLA Stunt Ranch Reserve, park and meet in the asphalt pullout on the right.
Please review the guidelines (https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re shown on the “Attending” list.
Plan on KEEPING UP with the group and completing the entire hike at a moderate pace, or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No “Plus Ones” or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.

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

Intermediate Hike ~ Las Virgenes to Laskey Mesa
2024-11-05 09:00 - 11:30 | Upper Las Virgenes Cyn Open Space Preserve LV Trailhead, Las Virgenes Road, Hidden Hills, CA, 91302, United States
Welcome to the new parking area at the north end of Las Virgenes! Construction is complete, and cars may now park diagonally off Las Virgenes near the trailheads.
We will be hiking northeast to Laskey Mesa, then around the mesa to the north, west, and back to upper Las Virgenes, then back to the cars for a total of 7 miles and 1,000′ of elevation gain. There is one relatively steep section, about 1/4 through the hike, but it’s short.
I’ll pre-hike this over the weekend to check for water in the creeks, and will post a comment if I find some.
Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes and a sun hat. Please consider bringing the 10 essentials (https://bit.ly/1vB2Avz).
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:

Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

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

Lizard Rock Loop - Easy Intermediate with easier option
2024-11-05 18:00 - 21:30 | Tennis Court parking lot, 635 W Avenida de Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA, US
Easy Intermediate, 4.5 miles, 600′ gain
Easier Option, 3.5 miles, 460′ gain
This is a unique loop through Wildwood Park that takes us to the famous Lizard Rock.
There are several extended inclines and a few short but steep climbs that cause this to be rated on the easy end of the intermediate spectrum. Beginners will still have no problem completing this hike, but they may be cursing some of the inclines and will not be zooming along on the steps or inclines at high speed.
There is nothing wrong with taking it slow because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. We’ll be waiting for folks to catch up at the major junctions. I may put down white powder lines so that nobody gets lost if they fall way behind.
We’ll be starting from the tennis court parking lot 4 blocks east of the trail head parking lot and across the road.
We’ll cross to the park side of the road through a tunnel, and turn right on to the Moonridge trail that runs parallel to the road. We’ll follow for about 1/4 mile, and then go left instead of taking the stem to the right.
This will take us to the steps to the trail head parking lot. We’ll regroup.
Those that want the easier option will cross the parking lot and take main trail (Mesa trail) straight for 1 mile, turning right at the Lizard Rock trail, and following it up to Lizard Rock.
The rest of us will continue along the Moonridge trail. We’ll follow it around for another 1/2 mile and make a right at the North Teepee Trail fire road and continue for about 200′.
Next, we’ll make a left at the Stagecoach Bluff Trail for about 500′, where it will dead end at a trail of the same name. We’ll make a left and continue for about 1000′ until it dead ends. We make a left, then the next right to head up to Lizard Rock, where we’ll share snacks and beverages.
Finally, we’ll head along the ridge of Lizard Rock and then down towards the Mesa Trail fire road. We’ll make a left, and take it all the way back to the main parking lot. Then we’ll cross the lot and take the steps at the far end of the lot down, and return on the trail we started on, back to the tunnel and then our cars.
Returning Early
For those that wish to head back instead of hanging around for the snack share, you are responsible for finding your own way back. Please follow the posted route and map.
Directions
Wildwood Park
635 W Avenida De Los Arboles
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
From the 118:
CA-118 west to CA-23.
Continue south on CA-23 to exit 15 for 4.8 miles, Avenida de los Arboles
Turn right (west) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot.
From CA-23:
CA-23 to exit 15, Avenida de los Arboles
West on W. Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot.
If the lot is full, park in the neighborhood across the street.
The Hike
Distance: 4.5 miles, 3.5 hours, Easier option, 3.5 miles.
Elevation Gain: 600′, Easier option, 460′.
Pace: 2.0 mph
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate. Easier Option, Fit Beginner.
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: Yes – after the first segment, in the gravel parking lot.
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free.
Trail: Double and single track, fire road.
What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snacks and/or beverages to share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp for evening hikes.
Insect Repellent.
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Ride the Two Winds (Dos Vientos) - Gentler Friendly
2024-11-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Dos Vientos Community Park, 4801 Borchard Rd, Newbury Park, CA, 91320, US
Come join us to hike in a section of the Dos Vientos Open Space.
This hike will loop around the periphery of the Dos Vientos Open Space, passing Twin Ponds, overlooking Potrero Road and the Oxnard Plain with the Channel Islands in the background. We will cross 2 streets along the way.
This hike is about 6.0 miles with about 800 feet of elevation gain.
Pace: This is a gentler friendly hike but not a beginner hike. We will go at a slightly slower pace than the Intermediate Trailblazer Hikes, and we will finish in about 2-2.5 hours. Faster hikers are welcome to join us so long as they are willing to hike at the slower pace of the group or wait at the forks on the trail. Slower hikers need to be at least at a 2,5 miles per hour pace. There are many confusing side trails in Dos Vientos so I ask that everyone plan to stay in contact with the group and not lose sight of those in front of you.
Please note this trail is very exposed (no shade) and there is no water along the way.
DIRECTIONS: From the 101 Freeway in Newbury Park, exit at Borchard Road. Drive 3.4 miles and turn into the Dos Vientos Community Park on the right, just after Via Ricardo (and before Via Las Brisas). Meet by the tennis courts to the left.
If you are coming from the NW, exit Wendy and turn left on Wendy and then a right on Borchard to Dos Vientos Community Park.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list
Unregistered or waitlisted will be turned away.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.

Palo Comado Lollipop - Easy Intermediate
2024-11-07 18:00 - 21:30 | Doubletree/Sunnycrest Trailhead, Oak Springs Drive & Doubletree Road, Oak Park, CA, 91377, US
4.6 miles, 900′ gain, easy-intermediate
This route takes us through a beautiful canyon via a counter-clockwise lollipop. Most of the hike has a clear view of the sky, with a few parts that have tree cover. We’ll be stopping at the half-way point for a snack and beverage share.
We’ll start at the Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead (coordinates: 34.182480,-118.751785) and head east for 1/2 mile along the Doubletree Connector Trail. We’ll turn left and head north along the Palo Comado for about 1 mile. We’ll turn right (east) onto the Dead Cow Trail for 0.8 miles, where we’ll come to an overlook on the left.
There, we’ll stop for a snack and beverage share. Then we’ll continue down the Sheep Corral trail for about 700′, turning left back onto the Palo Comado trail. From there, we’ll head south 1.75 miles and turn right (west) onto the Doubletree Connector Trail and the final 1/2 mile back to the trailhead.
Hike
Distance: 4.6 miles
Gain: 900′
Distribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.
Difficulty: Easy Intermediate.
Shape: Lollipop, counter-clockwise.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Fire road and single track. Areas of sand, gravel, and rock, some of it rugged.
Trail Variations:
Several extended inclines of 1000 steps.
Several steep sections of 300 steps, but no hands required.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along street.
What to bring:
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
Snack and Beverage Share
Hosting
Route: The host knows the route.
Navigation: Host memory, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.
Hike type: Social.
We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping, even if it means every 50 steps.
Stops:
The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits, else something will be used to mark the direction, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker.
Each hiker is responsible for knowing their capability, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group.
Group separation:
Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation.
Directions (Palo Comado Canyon – Doubletree Trailhead):
From I-101
I-101, exit Kanan Rd.
Kanan Rd. north for 2 miles.
Right (east) on Sunnycrest Dr. for 0.6 miles.
Continue on Doubletree Rd. for 0.l miles.
Trailhead on the right, park along the street.
From CA-118, CA-23
I-118 west.
I-23 south for 4.8 miles, exit Avenida de Los Arboles.
Left (east) on Avenida del Los Arboles for 1.6 miles.
Right (south) on N. Westlake Blvd for 1.5 miles.
Left (east) on Kanan Rd. for 4.2 miles.
Left (north-east) on Deerhill Rd. for 0.3 miles.
Right at second cross street onto Doubletree Rd for 0.5 miles.
Trailhead on the left, park along the street.
Coordinates of trailhead: 34.182480,-118.751785
Address of a nearby house: 720 Clear Haven Dr., Oak Park, CA 91377
FAQ
Hiking Plus Page Links
Disclaimer / Release of Liability

Sagebrush Cantina: Hindsite
2024-11-08 19:00 - 23:00 | Sagebrush Cantina, 23527 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA, 91302, United States
Many from this group, plus other friends, will attend this event at Sagebrush Cantina. The band playing (Hindsite) puts on a fantastic show, playing dance, pop, r&b/funk, and hip hop music from the 70’s up to the latest hits.
This is one of the best venues I’ve experienced on LA’s west side, and this is one of the best bands I’ve seen at this venue. Come see a Hollywood quality show for free. Hindsite will have you dancing all night!
We’ll be seated either in the outdoor area, or indoors, depending on the weather. Seating is tough here, so even if we don’t all sit together, we’ll be seeing one another on the dance floor!
The band starts at 8p, but get there an hour earlier and maybe you’ll get a seat with the group.
Sagebrush Cantina
23527 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 222-6062
Events Calendar (Sagebrush Cantina)
Events Calendar (Hindsite)
Hiking Plus Page Links

Hike at Caspers Wilderness Park - Bell Canyon + Oso Trail + In-N-Out after
2024-11-09 08:00 - 10:45 | Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA, US
The hike I am planning is around 6.3 miles with about 700 ft. of elevation gain. It starts at the very end of the paved road, the long gray strip that can be seen on the map.
We will begin at the Bell Canyon Trail head. We will continue onto that and then take it to the Cougar Pass trail. We will go up that and make a left on Oso Trail. Once that ends, we will come back down Bell Canyon Trail until we hit Star Ridge Trail. We will take this to West Ridge Trail and go left. This will take us to a single track trail, Dick Loskorn Trail. This hits Nature Loops Trail and this will take us back to the beginning.
This is a beautiful hike with expansive views. It is a nice and remote hike, so you are really out there in the wilderness.
If you have any questions regarding the park or the trails we will be on, please let me know!
Here is a link to the park map: http://ocparks.com/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=8164
The address is: 33401 Ortega Hwy. San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Dogs are not allowed at this park.
Parking is $5, unless you have an OC Parks Annual Permit. If you hike a lot, it’s totally worth it: http://ocparks.com/about/fees/pass You can buy the pass at the park.

Saturdays in the Santa Monica Mountains 2024 #11 - Sandstone Sextet
2024-11-09 08:00 - 15:30 | Mishe Mokwa Trailhead Parking Lot, Yerba Buena Rd, Westlake Village, CA, 91361, US
Hike #11 in the 2024 Saturday in the Santa Monica Mountains series, will be an adventurous 9-mile, 2700’ gain loop hike to 6 peaks, a point, and a rock. We will bag six peaks including the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, Sandstone Peak (3111’), then Boney Peak (2825’), Exchange Peak(2953’), Tri-Peaks (3010’), Pop Top (2940′), and Big Dome (2912’) with additional stops at Inspiration Point (2766′) and Balanced Rock(2300′). Poles could be useful on some portions of this route and long pants and long sleeve shirt recommended. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude. Poles would also be useful and long sleeves/pants recommended.
Please fill out and print the Sierra Club medical form and bring it with you. Copies of the form will be available to fill out at the trailhead as well. You can download the form here. https://tinyurl.com/ycy985mt.

Surprise Canyon to Panamint City + bonus ascent of Telescope Peak!
2024-11-09 08:00 - 2024-11-11 15:00 | Chris Wicht Camp Parking, Surprise Canyon Trail, Trona, CA, 93592, United States
Distance – 5.5 miles one way
Elevation gain – 3,675 feet
Terrain – The trail was actually a road at one point but it’s hard to believe it when you’re hiking it. It’s not too bad as a trail now but it’s not maintained. It may have taken more damage in the recent flooding.
Difficulty – Moderate
Map: https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=12.8/-117.1606/36.1153&pubLink=n3YJLb4D9RY61dPTCjfT3LMX&trackId=076d5d72-f5b2-4518-adae-c6fd1538f648
Check out the pictures from when we did this trip a few years ago:
https://www.meetup.com/sandiegobackpackers/photos/29458575/
There is water.
Day 0 (Friday)
Drive up in the evening and camp at Chris Wicht Camp (trailhead)
Day 1 (Saturday)
Meet at 8am at Chris Wicht Camp at the end of Surprise Canyon Rd.
Hike 5.5 miles and up 3,675 feet to Panamint city.
Many possibilities once we reach camp:
Explore the city.
Hike to Panamint Pass to see Death Valley.
Explore nearby canyons and mines (without going into them!)
Day 2 (Sunday)
(optional) Summit Telescope Peak.Route or another possible Route
OR explore Panamint City
Or you can make it a one night trip and hike out.
Day 3 (Monday)
Explore Panamint City and hike out.
Last time I drove up there (October 2022) the dirt road was freshly graded and any vehicle could drive to the trailhead.
Death Valley Map: https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/upload/Death-Valley-Backcountry-Roads.pdf
Weather: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-117.10086822509764&lat=36.11707689794403#.W9vJT6eZPmE
DISCLAIMER: Hike at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. With any trip, things can change, reservations can get lost, the unexpected can happen. A go-with-the-flow attitude is always a good thing, and most importantly, let’s all have fun! This is an intermediate hike. Make sure you are in good enough physical shape for the distance, elevation changes, and terrain. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. The hiking group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event or assistant organizers (hike leaders) and…We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.

Secret Trail to Ape City - A VIP Hike
2024-11-09 09:00 - 12:00 | Malibu Creek State Park – VIP Parking, Agoura Hills, CA, 91301, United States
Scroll down to rsvp
Details
I will take you through Ape City, where the simian metropolis introduced in the original Planet of the Apes (1968 – starring Charlton Heston and Roddy McDowall) stood. The City is gone so you will have to use your imaginations. Click through the juxtaposed photos below for some inspiration. Perhaps those of you who know the trails will recognize some of the spots by Century Lake and the Rock Pool in Malibu Creek State Park
Ape City, Then and Now

Wait! There’s more……
As an added bonus we’ll be taking my MCSP secret trails. One I call the Lookout Bypass, is the Top Secret (and overgrown) trail, the other the Cage Creek Elevator. They are short but steep.
HIKE IS ABOUT 5 MILES WITH ABOUT 800 FT TOTAL ASCENT AND IS RATED DIFFICULT DUE TO TERRAIN. Long pants and long sleeves recommended. SEE THE HIKE RATING GUIDE
The Overlook Bypass is overgrown (no one uses it but us!). Wear good-gripping shoes. A trekking pole might come in handy on the steep uphills Weather and my foot permitted, we’ll also take a side trip to a vista of Malibou Lake adding a mile and a couple hundred feet of gain
Come meet our newest VIPs

Bring snacks or sack lunch for our break by the lake

Directions:
We’ll meet at the Old Reagan Ranch parking lot. It is on the Southeast corner of Cornell Rd and Mulholland Hwy

From the Ventura Freeway (US 101) in Agoura take the Kanan Road offramp and turn south. Follow Kanan, turn left on Cornell Way, bear right onto Cornell Road for a couple miles, cross Mulholland and turn left into Reagan Ranch.
From PCH/Santa Monica turn right onto Malibu Canyon for 6.3 miles then turn left onto Mulholland Hwy. After 3.2 miles turn left onto Lake Vista Dr (Cornell Rd). Turn left into Reagan Ranch
RSVP Here
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Tentative car camp and hiking at Pinnacles NP
2024-11-09 10:00 - 2024-11-11 12:00 | Online event
Tentative trip. Need to wait until campsites are released for November. More details to come
