Blazing the Virgin Canyon

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/8/6/0/event_109435392.jpegSanta Ynez is Spanish for Saint Agnes, the virgin-martyr patron saint of young girls and gardeners, among other things. We'll be traipsing through the canyon named after her , and you don't have to be a virgin, martyr, young girl, or even gardener to join in the fun.

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I'm going to shut up for once and let Elyse's photos tell the tale of the meadows, streams, canyons, mountain ridges, and forests we'll be marveling at along our way through Topanga State Park. If you're good, maybe we'll swing out to Eagle Rock and add another mile to our 7 mile lollipop hike (elevation gain is about 1900').

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/9/d/c/event_109435772.jpegTwo notes you'll be grateful for scrolling down this far for. One is that part of our hike is known for having poison oak- wear long pants, bring Tecnu, or stock up on calamine lotion. Second is that we're starting at 9:30, to give everyone time to get through rush hour traffic. Getting to the trailhead will be tricky for some of us, so get going early enough to make it on time.

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Directions:

From PCH, take Sunset Boulevard inland for half a mile. Turn left onto Palisades Drive and head north for 2.4 miles. Turn left onto Vereda de la Montura, and park on either side of the street in the permitted areas. The trail begins on the right side of the street at the bottom of the hill (before the private neighborhood gates).

No fee for parking.

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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.