About us
We're a Southern California hiking community built around fitness, challenge, and camaraderie, but with space for individuality. Some join to connect, others to unwind in quiet effort, and both belong here. That balance — effort and ease, connection and solitude — is what makes Not So Casual Hikes feel both grounded and authentic.
From canyon climbs to rugged ridgelines, we treat Southern California’s parks as our gym and our reset button. Our hikes are long, purposeful, and built to complement strength training, running, and other fitness routines — but they’re more than workouts. Every mile strengthens your body, clears your mind, and connects you to people who thrive on effort, growth, and the outdoors.
What started as “Casual Hikes” evolved after conquering the Big Fat Incline (BFI) — the turning point where our group leaned into the grind and never looked back. Since then, “Not So Casual” has meant showing up with purpose, challenging limits, and building real grit together.
Who Should Join
• Intermediate and advanced hikers ready for workout-level pace
• Strength trainers, runners, and endurance athletes who see hiking as cross-training
• Fit beginners eager to push their limits
• Anyone who values camaraderie, consistency, and nature as the ultimate reset⠀
What to Expect
• Strenuous hikes: 9–13 miles, 1,500–2,000+ ft elevation gain
• Moderate to fast pace — we move with intention, training more than touring
• Sub-groups by pace — find your stride or hike solo at your rhythm
• Optional shorter routes led by co-organizers for lighter training days
• We work hard — and yes, we have fun doing it
• High energy, shared accountability, and encouragement — every hike is a small win in a bigger journey⠀
**Move with purpose. Connect with people. Leave stronger than you came.**
Upcoming events
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Mountain Training Series — Endurance Block: Tenaja Falls (16.7 Miles)
34040 Ortega Hwy, Lake Elsinore, Ca, USAs part of our ongoing Mountain Training progression, this Endurance Block focuses on sustained time on feet, pacing discipline, and durability under cumulative fatigue — key foundations for higher-elevation objectives such as the Southern California Six Peak Challenge, San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Mount Whitney–style efforts.
We’ll hike to Tenaja Falls via the Morgan and Tenaja Falls trails in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness (Cleveland National Forest). Starting from the Bear Canyon Trailhead near Ortega Oaks, the route follows the Morgan Trail’s rolling terrain before transitioning onto the Tenaja Falls trail toward Tenaja Falls — a 150-foot cascading waterfall that drops into the canyon below (flow dependent on recent rainfall). We’ll return the same way; small creek crossings near the falls are possible, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
This 16.7-mile conditioning route emphasizes continuous forward movement over steep summit pushes and reinforces endurance and movement efficiency across sustained distance.
Who This Hike Is Best Suited For:
- Hikers comfortable with 15+ mile routes
- Ability to maintain a steady 3.3–3.6 mph moving pace (~16:30–17:30 per mile) on rolling terrain
- Ability to maintain steady movement for 5–6 hours
- Experience fueling and hydrating on longer efforts
Group Size & Expectations: Group size will be intentionally limited to keep the hike organized on a long, sustained route. There will be no designated sweep or backup leads. Please be comfortable maintaining the stated pace and navigating independently if you fall behind. We’ll regroup at major junctions or logical stopping points.
All hikers will initially be placed on the waitlist. Admissions are curated based on pace compatibility and prior participation in our Mountain Training Series or comparable hikes with us.
Details:
Location: 34040 Ortega Hwy, Lake Elsinore, CA
Trailhead: Bear Canyon Trailhead (near Ortega Oaks Candy Store)
Distance / Elevation: ~16.7 miles with ~2,500 ft cumulative gain
Duration: ~5–6 hours
Route Style: Out-and-back
Parking: Park along Ortega Highway (Hwy 74). The main trailhead lot is currently closed. A Forest Adventure Pass is required and should be purchased in advance to avoid citations.Route Map (AllTrails):
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tenaja-falls-from-ortega-oaks?u=i&sh=pxabuhAdditional Resources: Tenaja Falls Trail Guide
Essentials:
• Traction hiking shoes
• Water (2-3L; electrolytes recommended)
• Light snacks
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Hiking poles (if you normally use them)Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.
Disclaimer & Safety Notice: Not So Casual Hikes are challenging outings designed for hikers in strong shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We hike at a steady pace and the group may spread out. Please be prepared to navigate independently if you fall behind, though we’ll aim to check in at major junctions when possible. By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation, and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service. Hiking carries inherent risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions. Be prepared for sun exposure, heat, or marine layer conditions depending on the day.11 attendees
Past events
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