Hump Day Hike on the Talopop Trail

When we did this hike several months ago, there were perhaps a hundred police cars chasing someone on Las Virgenes below us and even a brush fire that concerned us for a short time, but I suspect the hike will be more placid this time.

The location in Calabasas should be quite accessible to many of our members and is very close to the 101. From the municipal park we'll hike counter-clockwise up the Trail that apparently has 3 names, but my guess for the correct one would be 'Talopop' trail, which I suspect is a Chumash word.

In any case, it's a single-track, well-maintained trail. It loops around to join up with the Liberty Canyon Fire Road and then the Las Virgenes Fire Road, both of which are more like trails than fire roads. It's a pleasant, quiet hike for mid-week and suitable for all members to help you survive to the weekend, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

It will be dark with no moon at all when we start, so make sure you bring a flashlight or headlamp.

Distance: 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 800'
Difficulty: Beginners OK because of the small elevation gain
Dogs: It's State land, so dogs are prohibited on the trails
Restrooms: Yes
Water Fountain: Yes, at the park
Parking: Free in lot or on both sides of Lost Hills Road
Trail: Mostly single-track, some fire road
Sunset: 5:35 pm, no moonlight during this hike

Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes are possible even now, but unlikely, slip-'n-fall is possible on one steepish downhill section of the trail.

Directions: From the 101, take the Lost Hills exit and head south toward the ocean. In a "Mile...Mile and and a Half" (inside joke for those who saw the film) you will come to the municipal park on the west side of Lost Hills. Park anywhere. It's all free. Look for the tall dork, which would be me, somewhere near the building.

Here are some pics I took on this hike, when I saw NUMEROUS deer:

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/8/f/2/600_347610962.jpeg

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/a/5/0/600_347611312.jpeg

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/c/b/2/600_347611922.jpeg

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.