Mt. McCoy is a great example of how one doesn’t need to travel hours into the wilderness for a hike.  

This moderate climb is perfect for residents of the Simi Valley area, and even those who travel from the San Fernando Valley or Ventura will find it a worthwhile trip.

Not long after starting out, the trail starts making its switchbacks up the hill.  After just over a mile, it reaches a bench just below the summit where we wait for everyone to gather before continuing on to the entrance of the Reagan Library about another mile away.  After a brief rest there, we return to the summit to take a group photo (last week's group is shown) and enjoy the view before heading back down.

From the top, you get nice 360 degree views of Simi Valley, Moorpark and the other surrounding cities.

This is a moderate 4.1 miles total out & back with a 600' elevation gain making a great EOD workout.

There is a nice description of the trail, as well as the interesting history of the huge concrete cross at the top here:http://www.simitrailblazers.com/hikes/mtmccoy.html

p.s. We have been doing this hike every Wed evening and generally draw a half dozen hikers or so, and sometimes a dog.

DIRECTIONS:

Go west on Royal Ave at the intersection with Madera Road in Simi Valley. You immediately get to a T-intersection where you turn right onto Acapulco, then an immediate left onto Washburn. Take it to where Washburn turns 90 degrees to the right and becomes Los Amigos. There is street parking right there at the trailhead.

Bring a flashlight!!!!! Rain cancels.