Chivo Canyon - Las Llajas Loop

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/6/2/b/event_13569771.jpegLast time we were here was Mar 9 last year. The hills were covered with wildflowers like the ones on the left

We will be hiking on eroded ranch roads and little-used goat trails through oak woodlands and along a creek. Along the way we will come across grazing cattle, marine fossils and the old Coquina Mine. At the abandoned limestone mining operation, atop a peak, you can sit in the operator’s seat of a large steam shovel. On a clear day you can see the ocean from atop the ridgeline.

While you are there, don't forget to get a picture of yourself on the steam shovel. You can make engine noises and everything:

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This is a P&H Model 206 steam shovel from 1920s. There is lots more mining equipment strewn about.

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Fiddleneck and Lupine abound!

For more photos from last hike see https://www.meetup.com/localhikers/photos/848577/13566533/

Hike is about 9 miles with 1000 ft net elevation gain.

Directions to trailhead: Take the 118 and exit Yosemite Ave. Head north on Yosemite for 1.3 mile to where the road splits and hang a right on Evening Sky Dr. Go 0.5 mile to the Las Llajas trailhead on the left

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/9/8/5/event_13566533.jpeg