Matilija Falls Hike

Sunday April 14, 2013

Matilija Falls Hike

Hike Length: 9-10 miles with 1200' elevation gainhttp://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/6/b/8/event_218589912.jpeg
Hiking Time: All day.
Difficulty Rating: More that Moderate but less than Strenuous
Overall Rating: Great

Trail notes: The trail head begins at the entrance to Matilija Canyon Ranch and Wildlife Refuge. We will follow a paved/dirt road pass this ranch and the Blue Heron Ranch; the property owners have been kind enough to allow hikers to access the trails through their property. Please remember they may be sleeping when we pass at 8:15 AM.

The first 2.5 miles are easy, we will be hiking following the road and signal track trail to the creek. Inside Matilija Canyon the path follows the creek and is in fair condition. There will be some bouldering, and creek crossing but nothing you http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/7/7/6/event_218590102.jpegcan't do. We will pass many wilderness campsites, some of which have nice chairs to rest on. Near the mid point of the hike we will follow a tributary to the creek a short distance to a waterfall. Then back to the main creek and continue upstream another 1/4 mile to 3 more waterfalls. The last waterfall will require climbing with the help of a rope, but is worth the effort.

Leader notes: Because of the water, bugs there could be a problem. As with most hikes by water there is poison oak to watch out for. On the pre-hike I saw six turtles and, maybe, two condors.http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/8/8/4/event_218590372.jpeg

Directions to trail head: Interstate 5 north to the 126 west. In Santa Paula exit the 126 Freeway at Hwy 150. Follow the 150 to the Y intersection with Highway 33. Bear right on Highway 33 and travel 5 miles to Matilija Road South. Turn left and drive 4.9 miles to the end of the road and trail head. Meet at trail head at 08:15 am. Adventure pass required. No restrooms at trail head. For those wishing to carpool meet at Walmart's parking lot on Kelly Johnson Parkway in Valencia between 6:45-07:00 AM. Arrangement's will be made at that time.

LEADER: Davehttp://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/e/c/0/event_149407872.jpeg