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A late afternoon hike or a walk along the shore … then, a view of the night’s sky without any city lights! We’ll meet at Lake Casitas’ Picnic Area #1 at 5pm (that gives us approximately 3 hours to get situated, hike, grab a bite and do a little socializing before the stargazing begins at 8p) unless everyone wants to get out there earlier (let me know!). Well-behaved, friendly dogs on leash are welcome!

Hiking: According to the Lake Casitas website, there’s a biking/hiking trail (looks more like a paved road) that follows the east shoreline for approximately 1-1/2 miles (so, 3 miles round trip). However, there must be other trails that can be pursued for those desiring something “more.”

Stargazing: Then, we’ll meet back at Picnic Area #1 for an evening of stargazing with NASA accredited astronomer Ernest Underhay who is described as “an astronomer with a fund of knowledge and a ‘far out’ sense of humor.” Be advised, this is a public and open event and I would imagine they have a good turn out as it is only held once each month during the Spring and Summer.

Costs: There’s a $15 per car parking fee and a $2 per pet fee charged by Lake Casitas.

What to Bring: Bring blankets, chairs, binoculars and telescopes as well as flashlights, water, a picnic dinner and snacks. I’d also recommend a jacket as it might be chilly after dark.

Directions to Lake Casitas: 101N to Ventura, take the 33 Freeway towards Ojai (starts as freeway and continues as 2 lane road), after approximately 10 miles from the 101, in Mira Monte, look for McDonalds, then Taco Bell and then Wendy’s on the right hand side of the road. At the stop light immediately after Wendy’s (intersection of Baldwin Road (Highway 150) and the 33), turn left on to Highway 150 (Baldwin Road). Go west on Highway 150 approximately 3 miles. Turn left on Santa Ana Road. Entrance to Lake is within 100 yards of turning on right hand side. Proceed to Picnic Area #1. (Directions take from www.lakecasitas.info and are different from those provided by Mapquest.)

Lake Casitas Recreation Area
11311 Santa Ana Road
Ventura, CA 93001

Carpool: I highly recommend carpooling due to the distance and the high cost of parking ($15 per car).

Allow at least 1-1/2 hours travel time to Lake Casitas from Simi Valley (it’s about 49+ miles) due to the always heavy 101 traffic.

Here’s the link to the flyer on the Lake Casitas site (I pretty much lifted everything from the flyer here but it does include additional dates if you’re interested): https://www.lakecasit...

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Activities of the Simi Valley Hiking Group have inherent dangers and injury may result from participating in anysuch activity. By participating in any event, you understand that you are partipating at your own risk and shall be solely responsibile for your own safety as well as that of any guest who may accompany you. The Simi Valley Hiking Group, organizers and members are not trained leaders and may not possess any first aid or other such certifications. Your participation will automatically be deemed a release of the Simi Valley Hiking Group, its organizers and members from any and all liability in the event an injury arises as a result of participation in any event.