A Mild West Adventure- a Gentler Hike

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/6/2/6/event_201354822.jpegThe Gentlers are going to tickle their wild sides with a journey back to a time when gentler didn't exist; a journey into California's mining, cowboy, and desperado past.

Pacoima Creek cuts a deep canyon from Mt. Gleason to the San Fernando Valley. A seasonal stream runs through the canyon, shaded by oak, cottonwood, alder, and a handful of sycamores. Gold, silver, titanium, and graphite mining was once done in this canyon. An old prospector know as Dutch Louie discovered gold here, and he and his associates diverted the stream by tunneling a temporary watercourse through a rock promontory to get at it. With (Pecos) Pete leading the way, we'll be able to see the tunnel, 150-200' long, of this turn-of-the-century mine. All nuggets found must immediately be placed in the Titular Head's hand.

Our hike begins at (Marshall) Dillon Divide on a dirt road, which transports us to a single track trail that leads down into the canyon, to Pacoima Creek. Depending on the water flow, we'll skip back and forth across the creek until we get to Dagger Flats, named for the alleged stabbing of a prospector, perhaps that greedy bastard Dutch Louie. All daggers found must immediately be removed from the Titular Head's back.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/7/4/8/event_201355112.jpegThe hike is 6 miles, with approximately 1000' of elevation gain. The elevation is more than gentlers are used to- we will take our time.

This is a gentler hike. We will go at a more moderate pace than a regular Trailblazer hike, and we'll take more breaks. The purpose is to give novice and intermediate hikers who may feel they're not up to a regular hike a chance to get out and experience our beautiful trails. Faster hikers are welcome to come along, with the understanding that the hike is geared toward those who want to go at an easier pace.

Because Adventure Passes are required at the trailhead, we will meet at the Placerita Canyon Nature Center (free parking) and carpool to the trailhead. That means you need to be on time, or you'll be left behind. Please indicate in the comment section if you have an Adventure Pass or not. Do not arrange carpools- we'll do that at the Nature Center.

Where to buy an Adventure Pass: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5181410&width=full

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/8/9/c/event_201355452.jpeg

Directions:

Take the 405/5 north. Exit 162 (State Road 14/Antelope Valley Freeway) toward Palmdale/Lancaster. After about 3 miles, take Exit 3 for Placerita Canyon Rd. The Nature Center is 1.5 miles, on the right.

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.