Bike hike! Ventura to Ojai

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/4/2/e/event_198429262.jpegBlazers bike, too! It's been a while, but let's saddle up for some spinning, spandex, strawberries, and scenery and on a lovely Friday.

This is a 30 mile out and back (15 each way), with 1000 feet of elevation gain. The Ventura River Trail follows an old Southern Pacific Railroad line that paralleled the Ventura River. The trains are long gone, leaving a paved ribbon that rises gently up to Ojai in their wake. Vestiges of Ventura's industrial past dot the first 5.5 miles of the route, with sculptural homages to industry, oil, and various local hallmarks like the poinsettia, Ventura's official flower. Increasingly scenic views of the river and the Santa Ana Valley cajole us along the route.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/5/0/event_198429552.jpegThe ride is fairly easy, despite the distance and elevation. The trail is a paved, dedicated biking path most of the way- street bikes as well as mountain bikes will do well. There will be some street crossings, so stay alert. While this is not a race, we want to stay within eyesight of each other- please be a capable and considerate rider.

We'll have lunch at the turnaround point in Ojai. Lunch will be at Boccali's, which is a casual Italian/pizza place, with THE BEST strawberry shortcake you'll ever have. Check them out here:

http://www.boccalis.com/

Boccali's only takes cash and checks, so prepare accordingly.

Get to the parking lot, gear up, unrack the bike, and be ready to roll at 10:30.

Directions:

Take the 101 to California St. Head north (inland) on California and turn left on Main St. Follow Main .75 mile, and pass under the 33. The parking lot is on the left.

(posted address is approximate)

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/9/6/event_198429622.jpeg

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY

IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:

The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.

Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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.

If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.