Long Canyon/Montgomery Canyon Loop

This is a great hike for intermediate-level members! We will start from the Long Canyon trail head (where we did a different hike on March 17) and make our way up our first climb, then down and to the left, going through a shaded oak grove where we are likely to see many snake trails in the dust (See picture below). We'll then make a clockwise loop through the bottom of another canyon and make our second big climb up a fire road to a ridge that we will follow as we enjoy some magnificent views. (This is why I LOVE living in SoCal, btw, it's the views while hiking! I can't get enough of it, having lived most of my life in the flatlands of the Midwest).

To finish the loop we'll descend a well maintained trail to link up at the point where we entered the oak grove and proceed back up our final long climb to link up to the Long Cyn trail and head back to the (free) parking lot.

Please bring a flashlight just in case we take more time than anticipated, as sunset will take place at 8:10 this evening.

Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1450'
Difficulty: Intermediate, please know your limits.
Restrooms: A distant dream.
Parking: Free!
Dogs: Welcome.

Important: Make sure you bring plenty of water for this hike, especially if it is hot. At least 1L is mandatory. I will be bringing 2L because I sweat a lot, which puts me into the category of horses, I guess. (For those of you who know who journalist James Kilpatrick is, he once wrote that his mother told him that 'Horses sweat, men perspire, and ladies merely glow.')

Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes are definitely a possibility at this time of year, as their temperature of maximum activity is between 80 and 90 degrees. (I'm reading a scholarly book on rattlesnakes right now.) At the end of the hike, there are some steep sections with loose stones where it is possible to slip and fall. Please be careful.

Driving Directions: From the 118 take the 1st Street exit and head south ALL the way to the end (several miles) where you will come to a stop sign. There is a parking lot up a wee bit and to your left. If you are coming from the 101, take the 23 to the Olsen Road exit, and turn right at the bottom of the ramp. Turn right when you get to Woodranch Parkway and follow it until you go UP a hill to a stop sign. Continue forward to the parking lot at the trailhead.

Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions. Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. This 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. You are responsible for you. If you choose to sign up for any events, you are releasing the Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgement and experience. This applies to any guests you may invite.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/7/2/a/event_245354122.jpeg

Near the start/end of the hike, looking at Bard Reservoir.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/0/3/a/event_245356442.jpeg

There are a couple veins of fossilized sea shells on this rock to the left that I will point out as we pass by it.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/7/7/e/event_245358302.jpeg

I never saw sights like this growing up in Clear Lake, IA.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/b/f/2/event_245359442.jpeg

Beautiful oak grove we will pass through.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/e/a/e/event_245360142.jpeg

I didn't see any snakes on this trail today, but I did see LOTS of snake trails like this one.