Name: Return to Mugu Peak
Start: 2012-07-10T09:00:00-07:00
End: 2012-07-10T12:00:00-07:00

Miss this one when we did it in May? Well here's your chance to atone for that grievous error and ascend Mugu Peak, on the ocean edge of Point Mugu State Park in Malibu. We'll start in La Jolla Canyon, home of our anniversary hike. La Jolla Canyon is near the Port Hueneme end of Malibu.

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After bouncing along our accustomed route up the canyon, passing the sometimes there/sometimes not waterfall, we'll take a sharp left turn and head out toward the ocean. As that implies, we'll get some dazzling views of the mighty Pacific along the way, but nothing like what awaits us after we reach the American flag that waves atop Mugu Peak.

Once the Giant Coreopsis and riparian vegetation of the canyon have given way to cacti and sage, we'll begin climbing in earnest. In the last half mile, you'll earn what many consider the most dramatic view in the entire Santa Monica Mountains- an unobstructed 360 degree view. The Channel Islands, Mugu Lagoon, Point Mugu Naval Base, the Boney Mountain Range, Sandstone Peak (the highest in the Santa Monicas), and, of course, that big azure ocean. We'll take a break at the top to have a snack and try to find words for what we're seeing.

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The hike is a 6.5 mile boomerang-shaped out and back, with 1260' of elevation gain. The good news is that the return is all downhill.

Much of the hike is in the open, so wear sunscreen and hat. The peak can be breezy, so bring a jacket or afghan if you're prone to chills.

We'll meet in the parking lot near the La Jolla Canyon Trailhead. There is a parking fee in the lot (or free with state parking pass). The machine takes credit cards. There is free parking on PCH (if the side of the road is clear), just a short walk to the parking area. Give yourself extra time to park and pay, or walk from PCH. Cell service is usually non-existent in the parking lot, so we won't be able to hear your lame excuses for being late.

Directions: http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/4/1/4/event_122533332.jpeg

From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway north (22 miles from Malibu Canyon Rd). Across the street from Thornhill Broome Beach is the entrance to La Jolla Canyon. It is very clearly marked. Turn right.

From Ventura, turn left 4 miles after Las Posas Rd.

Drive 300 yards up the road to the parking area.

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.

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