DOUGH FLAT to ALDER CREEK CAMP

Led by Matthew, this unique hike located just north of Fillmore is in one of the most unknown sections of the Los Padres Forest. Although relatively close to civilization, you will feel like you are in a remote forest. Located in the middle of the Sespe Condor Sanctuary we might get lucky and see a condor, although unlikely. The vegetation is chaparral and has completely grown back from the devastating Day fire that started on Labor Day 2006. The last 2.5 miles of the dirt road to the trailhead are closed between November 1st and May 1st. The rest of the year sees few visitors mostly because of extreme temperatures during the summer. Other than its remoteness, the main attraction of this area is the unique rock formations on a plateau that is about half way out to Alder Creek. This area can get hot because it is so low in elevation and highly exposed due to very few trees. Therefore, if the temperature rises above 80 degrees, plan on bringing an extra liter of water for a hike of this distance and elevation gain.

DISTANCE: Up to 14 miles if we make it to Alder Creek Camp. If one goes to the plateau only, the round trip distance would be between 7 to 8 miles.

ELEVATION GAIN: 2700’ with 1300’ gain heading out and 1400’ returning. From the plateau the trail heads downhill towards Alder Creek. If one chooses to go as far as the plateau, the elevation gain would be around 1300’.

GROUPS: Group One that completes the entire hike and Group Two that will only go in half way to the plateau to see the rock formations.

DIFFICULTY: Group One: moderately strenuous. Group Two: moderate. Advanced beginners are welcome. Pace should be casual.

VEHICLES: We will need a few high clearance vehicles to drive 12 miles to the trailhead with the last 10 miles of it being a dirt road. Regular sedans can navigate this road too. The dirt road is well graded and mostly in good shape except for a rough patch that is about a ¼ mile from the trailhead. For any driver that does not want to attempt this, it is strongly encouraged to park at the bottom of this hill and walk the last half mile to the trailhead. This part along the dirt road is reflected in the mileage and elevation.

BRING: 3 liters of water, lunch, wear sunscreen and lug soled shoes. Hiking poles recommended but not mandatory.

EARLIER MEETUP: 6:45am at the Thousand Oaks Park and Ride located at the corner of Rancho Rd and Haaland Drive. The shortest distance to get to Fillmore from this Park and Ride is to take Hwy 23 through Moorpark and over Grimes Canyon. Take the Moorpark Fwy north and exit Los Angeles Av (SR118). Head west for about one mile and turn right on Spring Rd. Take Spring Rd until it ends and turn right on Walnut Canyon Rd. Then turn left on Broadway Rd. and then right on Grimes Canyon Rd. Where SR23 ends is at SR126 and our second meeting place will be across that intersection on the northwest corner.

AFTER HIKE MEAL: For those interested we can have an after hike meal at a Mexican restaurant in Fillmore after the hike.