Escondido Falls- a Gentler Hike

Escondido Falls is the highest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains at 150 feet. While more dramatic during the rainy season, who wants to hike in the rain?

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/9/a/4/event_122538852.jpegWe'll start on paved road before slipping onto the dirt trail and following a creek toward our pot of gold. There are several minor creek-crossings along the way, but nothing to dissuade anyone from attending.

The falls are split in two, with the 50' Lower Falls and the higher Upper Falls. Most gentlers will want to stop at the Lower, but the adventurous among us can make their way up a tricky trail to where the more spectacular, mossy Upper Falls splashes into a tranquil pool.

This hike is the definition of gentler- a 4 mile walk with a few hundred feet of elevation gain, mostly on a cool, shady trail. There may be a way to extend it slightly, but only slightly.

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.

Directions:

From Kanan Road, drive south a mile or so on Pacific Coast Highway to East Winding Way and turn left. Park in the lot immediately on the left, or on PCH.

Parking is free.

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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.