Encinal Canyon to the Top of the World!

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/8/5/c/event_79431292.jpeg

Encinal Canyon is named for encina, the Spanish word for the holm oak, a lovely Mediterranean tree with holly characteristics. Holm oaks are one of the main trees used to establish truffle orchards, but we'll be nosing around the canyon strictly for its beauty.

The trail from Encinal is a smooth, firm, and well-traveled singletrack- climbing, swooping and winding with a constant, gentle slope. We'll have fabulous views of the coast for much of the way. Close to the top, we'll take on the slightly steeper Etz Meloy Motorway, then the last tenth of a mile is up a seldom-used trail to the isolated peak, where we'll both lose and catch our breath with a 360-degree view.

From our perch above it all, we'll be masters of our domain- from Sandstone Peak to the west, Simi Valley to the north (bring your binoculars!), Ladyface and Mt Baldy to the east (binoculars not needed), and the Channel Islands to the south.

The route will take us along the newest part of the Backbone Trail- only two more sections to complete the 65 mile trail!

This is an 8.0 mile out and back hike, with 1200' of elevation gain.

Give yourself extra time to get to the trailhead- the roads are winding and slow.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/6/2/a/event_204737962.jpeg

Directions:

The parking area is off the north side of Encinal Canyon Road, almost directly across the street from the Camp 13 fire station. Park in the large dirt lot, which is free

From 101 – Take the Kanan Road exit and head south. Continue 6.1 miles, then turn right onto Mulholland Hwy. After 0.9 miles, veer left onto Encinal Canyon Rd. Drive 2.4 miles to the parking area, on the right. Note: If you pass the fire station, you went too far.

From the Pacific Coast Highway – From the PCH, turn up Encinal Canyon Road. Drive 5 miles, then turn right to stay on Encinal Cyn Rd. Continue 1.1 miles to the parking area, on the left.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY

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, its organizers, and sponsors 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.