Matilija Wilderness from Ojai, 12.5 miles/3,200', intro to adventure hiking

Tpday we're off to where no one has gone in decades


The sign in the Ventura River Preserve says it's not possible to make it to the Camino Cielo Trail. But we've made it, and today we'll go a bit farther than last time.

Bring loppers to help with overgrown brush at top.

We'll be in the Matilija Wilderness north of Ojai, in the Los Padres National Forest. We'll probably split into 2 groups with Robert leading the speedsters and I'll follow at a moderate pace.

Here are pics of our last outing on the same trails:

https://www.meetup.com/fun-in-the-sun-Oxnard/events/58906562/

We'll start off in the Ventura River Preserve in Ojai and take Kennedy Ridge up to the old Camino Cielo Trail (CCT). It's very brushy up there, so bring loppers to help open up the trail. We'll spend no more than an hour clipping, and the rest of the time will be spent enjoying the pristine wilderness. Lots of stops for snacks, photos, wildlife and taking in the views.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/b/7/8/event_106807032.jpeg

Our view to the west--Lake Casitas.

Weather is perfect on Sat--although it's hot in Ojai, it's under 80 degrees up on the ridge where we're going

Very neat, a triple treat ...

Trailblazing? Technically no, because these are old trails, but since we're doing them for the first time in years, essentially, yes!

Bushwacking? Yes, on an old fireroad, much overgrown.

Exploring? Yes, because we haven't been to our endpoint yet.

Time & Place: 8:00AM at trailhead in Ojai, off Rice Road. Directions will be emailed to participants.
Level: This depends on your level of conditioning. If you're adventurous and can hike 12 miles/3,100', this will suit you.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/b/6/4/event_106807012.jpeg

Robert coming along Camino Cielo Trail. It has some wash-out areas, but easy to traverse. From our 4/1/12 hike.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/d/7/e/event_106815742.jpeg

Some boulder hopping due to rock slides. Jim, from our 4/1/12 hike.

Type of Hike: Out and back the same way.

Pace: Choice of speedy or moderate, with Robert & Camille leading each group.

Bring: Loppers for trail maintenance. Confirm that you're bringing them on sign-up (there will be a question there). If you don't have them, I recommend these--very lightweight and fit in a backpack:

https://www.meetup.com/fun-in-the-sun-Oxnard/photos/1039449/72613682/

The ten essentials (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Essentials). Protective gloves, e.g. leather or gardening gloves. Trekking poles will get in the way, so they need to be stashed if bringing them. Headlamp, snacks, lunch, plenty water.
Wear: Layers, hiking shoes/boots with lug soles, long pants/sleeves for heavy brush protection. Your clothes could get filthy and ripped, so dress accordingly.
Dogs: Fine, if they're used to this level. Email me if you'd like to bring your leashed dog.

Parking: Free, no permits needed.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/b/6/e/event_106807022.jpeg

Jim and Steve on the brushy Camino Ceilo Trail. It gets worse farther along. From our 4/1/12 hike.

Terrain: Fireroad, single track, short sections with boulders, grade is very good; nothing too steep.http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/b/8/2/event_106807042.jpeg

Our view to the east.