Westward to the Lagoon- a Beach Shuttle Hike!

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/d/a/c/event_188951692.jpegJoin us for a one way hike along the sand, from Westward Beach to the Malibu Lagoon. While the hike is almost entirely flat (except for the climb up and down to/from Point Dume, the distance makes this more work than our traditional lunch stroll from Westward to Paradise Cove- not for beginners.

The hike is 10 miles, taking 5-6 hours, including some stops. We'll stop at places to look at the tide pools, take photos, etc. but not linger long in one place, to take advantage of the low tide window. The beach is quite wide during the few hours around the low tide, with plenty to see. In December when I did it there were seals, porpoises, herons, pelicans, shore birds, more. We may see whales.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/e/5/6/event_188951862.jpegYou will need shoes that have a good tread and that you don't mind getting wet. A good trail running shoe or other running shoe is best. The sand is mostly hard-packed, giving it the consistency of a nice, spongy trail. Bring a jacket for the wind, sunscreen, and enough water and snacks to last you a few hours. There are a couple bathrooms along the way.

We will be walking in front of the mansions and beach houses of the world famous Malibu Riviera and Malibu Colony. These houses are owned by the rich, movie stars, and the famous. However, expect very few people around. Winter mid-week we should have the beach practically to ourselves and the marine animals. We'll pass by/through Point Dume, Dume Cove, Paradise Cove, Escondido Beach, Latigo Point, Dan Blocker State Beach, Corral Beach, Malibu Beach, Malibu Point, and finish at Malibu Lagoon.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/e/b/a/event_188951962.jpegNote: If big waves or rain are forecast, we may have to change plans or cancel. We would know a couple days before. Info on the hike will be updated accordingly.

We will meet in the Malibu Country Mart parking lot, near the Wells Fargo Bank (that's what the posted address is for). We'll consolidate cars and drive up to our starting point at Westward Beach. We'll eat at the Mart afterward, so if you won't be eating with us, either leave your car at the Mart or make sure someone can take you back to Westward for it immediately after we're done hiking.

Be ready to leave the Mart parking lot at 9:30. Since the hike has been timed to take advantage of low tide, we need to begin the carpool on time. Be there, or be left behind.

Directions:

From the 101, exit Las Virgenes/Malibu Canyon Rd and head south, toward the ocean. Turn left on PCH, and make another left at the 2nd light after that (at the Shell gas station-Cross Creek Rd). Turn right into the lot at Starbucks and drive through- Wells Fargo is in front of you.

Note: there is a back way into the Country Mart, turning left at the light before PCH, across from Pepperdine (Civic Center Way). That turn is illegal before 9 or 10 AM (I forget which, but was given a large financial incentive to read the signs a few years ago). You've been warned.

From PCH, coming from LA. Turn right on Cross Creek Rd (the light with the Shell station), then right again into the parking lot and drive back until you see Wells Fargo. There's an earlier turn directly into the lot just over the Lagoon bridge, if you're paying attention.

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.