NIKE MISSILE SITE via CABALLERO CANYON / GRUB AFTERWARD at FIREHOUSE RESTAURANT

LENGTH: 8 MILES | ELEVATION GAIN: 900' | DOGS: ON LEASH | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/e/6/8/event_260480072.jpegBetween 1956-1968, this was one of 16 anti-aircraft missile launch sites in the Los Angeles area. It contained ground-based radar that was designed to detect hostile aircraft during the Cold War. Post-1968, ICBMs replaced these sites in keeping movie stars, tree huggers, and the rest of us heathens safe from Communism. Today, you can climb to the top of the original radar tower which provides a spectacular 360 degree view. Most of the elevation on this hike is at the beginning. Once we reach the ridge, we will hike along a fire road until we reach the missile site. It is ranked as moderate due to the distance; advanced beginners should be OK on this hike as long as they're comfortable with the distance. The path is exposed, so prepare for sun. We'll take it at a relaxed pace.

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DIRECTIONS:

From the 101 freeway, exit at Reseda Blvd and turn south (toward the ocean). Drive for about 2.2 miles. There is parking on both sides of the street; the trailhead is on the left side of Reseda Blvd., across the street from Braemer Country Club.

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The trailhead is clearly marked with a big sign (see photo above left...pic on right for entertainment purposes only). Park on the street. Parking is FREE.

There are restroom facilities and water fountain at the top (halfway point) but not at the trailhead.

OPTIONAL GRUB AFTERWARD AT FIREHOUSE RESTAURANT (approx. 3 miles away)

http://www.yelp.com/biz/firehouse-restaurant-tarzana-2

18450 Victory Blvd | Tarzana, CA 91335

From trailhead, drive northeast on Reseda Blvd for 3.1 miles Turn right onto Victory Blvd and restaurant will be on the right (has parking lot) http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/f/9/2/event_260488562.jpeghttp://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/5/6/0/event_260485952.jpeg

Release of Liability:

The organizer (me) of this trip is a volunteer and is not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. Each person who signs up for a trip/hike/or outing is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests.

By signing up for this trip, or any other event organized by me, you are acknowledging that you are aware and have made your guests aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the organizer (me) of this hike from and against any and all liability arising from your and your guest's participation in the group activities.

In addition, you and your guests are acknowledging that you agree to the Meetup terms of service especially paragraph 6.2: https://www.meetup.com/terms/