Hike to the NIKE Missle Site

Hike in the valley for some of you!

Meet Time: 4:00 p.m. Leave at 4:15 PM.

Finish Time Around 8:00 p.m.

We're hiking 8 miles, with 900 ft elevation gain from Caballero Canyon in Encino.

Our mission: a Cold War era Missile Base that was part of our main line of defense against Soviet fighter jets (anybody remember Iron Eagle II?). From the top of San Vicente Mountain, a complex radar system was ready at all hours of the day to defend us from the Evil Empire. Now, we get to hike to the top and tour a once highly restricted military base. We even get to walk up to the top of the radar tower for a majestic view of the San Fernando Valley. We'll then hike back to our cars by nightfall (we hope).

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/5/f/e/event_109854782.jpegThis hike can be completed by people in reasonable shape. Due to the distance involved, I would not recommend this hike if you've never hiked before or haven't been active in a couple of months.

There is no bathroom at the trailhead, but there are bathrooms with running water at the top.

What to bring: comfortable shoes, 2 liters of water, hat, sunglasses/ sunscreen, sweater/jacket (in case it gets windy) and a snack to share.

Parking on Reseda is free next to the trailhead. When you see the stop sign for the Braemar Country Club, stop and find a parking spot. We'll be across the street from the sign, and a couple of hundred feet north.

Rain cancels. Hike is NOT for beginners!