Matilija Wilderness Hike, 15.1 miles/4,100' (Superbowl Sunday)

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/5/7/2/event_72613682.jpegThis hike is open only to hikers who can contribute by bringing their own loppers. Note that loppers aren't garden clippers ... they wouldn't even make a dent!

As of 9/1/12, here are the details of the LIGHTEST ones available. These fit inside most backpacks:

16 of these are available at Home Depot in Camarillo, 805-389-9918. SKU#046561169725. Fiskars Titanium PowerGear Anvil Lopper. Weight only 13oz, 15" long. 1.25" cutting capacity. $22.97+tax. May be available at their online store. I've never seen them in Lowes.

Heavier ones will have a larger cutting capacity, e.g. 1.5".

Our adventure today will suit you if you're a trailblazer--someone who hikes in new territory where no one has been before. If you've never done trailblazing, this is a good intro 'cos there's only about 1/3 mile of it. The plan:

"Out and back" hike, i.e. we hike one way up, and the same way back.

Hike up 7.2 miles on fireroad and single track--all open, so easy enough if you're used to the elevation gain. Spend 1 hour going along an old unused trail; not much elevation gain here. This is where you'll need your loppers. Everyone helps equally. In 1 hour, we usually manage 1/3 mile. Turn around and head back on this old trail. Hike all downhill 7.2 miles to trailhead. No Guests. Everyone must be a Fun in the Sun Club member and signed up individually.

Trailblazing, Exploratory? Bushwacking? Yes, yes, and yes! Triple treat ... whoohoo! It's so difficult to find local trails that haven't been trodden, but because this old trail hasn't been used in at least 20 years, it will be new territory.

Pace: Any pace is fine, as long as you can handle the stats. Pace will be set to that of the slowest hiker so we'll stay together. There's a possibility that we can split into 2 groups with speedsters going ahead with Robert while the rest of us take it easy. We'll see ...

Meeting Time and Place: Time shown above is approx. Actual meeting time and place will be sent on Feb 2 to those who have emailed me saying their loppers are in their vehicle. You'll receive a reminder.

Bring: The ten essentials. Loppers--not garden clippers; they won't even make a dent. If you don't have them, see above for one place where to find them. Trekking poles if you like using them, gloves (garden gloves fine), headlamp, snacks, lunch, plenty water, e.g. 4L+.

Wear: Layers (including lightweight jkt), hiking shoes/boots with lug soles, hat, long pants/sleeves.

Dogs: Leashed dogs okay if they can handle the stats.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/3/d/8/event_95893272.jpeg

Estimated Stats: 15.1 miles/4,100'http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/b/f/e/event_64852222.jpeg

Views of Old Man Mountain and Vulture Peak.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/3/c/e/event_95893262.jpeg

We'll see this rock--double face mask.

Gorgeous lake views from the peak, with Jameson Lake (top) and Lake Casitas (bottom):

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/b/e/a/event_64852202.jpeg

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/b/f/4/event_64852212.jpeg