Over Hill and Dale in Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa – A Gentler Hike

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/c/1/8/event_111828152.jpegThis hike is a little different than the one Steve led last year and hopefully the weather will be cooler. We will explore the meadows of the Rancho Sierra Vista potion of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA), not only the section surrounding the Chumash Interpretive center, but also a lesser hiked area Northwest toward Dos Vientos. We will traverse National Park land, the eastern portion of Point Mugu State Park at the top of Sycamore canyon, and a section of land owned by the city of Thousand Oaks through COSCA (Conejo Open Space Conservation Association). I just pre-hiked this area and the grasses and flowers are absolutely fantastic right now…..hopefully they will last another week.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/c/8/6/event_111828262.jpegIf we are lucky, we’ll see some views of the ocean and islands off the coast as well as a glimpse of the Camarillo plain.

Distance is about 5.5 – 6 miles and about 700 feet of elevation gain over mostly gently rolling hills. There is not much shade on this hike, so if the temperatures are warm be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection. Usually there is a nice ocean breeze to help keep us cool. About 2/3 of the way through the hike, we’ll take a break at a picnic table under a large oak tree for a snack.

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.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/c/f/4/event_111828372.jpegDIRECTIONS:

From Los Angeles or Camarillo, take Highway 101 W to Thousand Oaks. Exit at Wendy Drive. Go south (towards the ocean) on Wendy all the way until it dead ends at the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. There is ample free parking on the dirt along the road. No restrooms at the trailhead, but we will pass close by later in the hike.

** Note that there is construction taking place at the Wendy Drive offramp and bridge, so traffic can be slower than normal getting on and off the freeway. **

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.