Sunset Hike To Garcia Trail...

Slow Poke Sunset Hike To Garcia Trail...

Dust off your trail shoes, grab some water, flashlight or headlamp and lets hike the Garcia Trail to the cross at Azusa Peak and enjoy the sunset.

The Garcia Trail is just a hill on the edge of town but it's a definite huff and puff type of hike even though it's only a mere 1.4 miles to the top (2.8 miles round trip). Don't let the short mileage fool you, it's STEEP!

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/d/5/2/600_276491602.jpeg At 1240 feet of elevation gain in only 1.4 miles, this trail is as steep as some mountain trails and portions of the trail are somewhat narrow and slippery. You may want to bring a trekking pole and will definitely want to bring a flashlight or headlamp as we will be hiking back in the dark.

Sure, we'll hike at a slow poke pace and take some breaks along the way, but DO know your limits as this trail is a steady climb from beginning to end and will be strenuous for beginning hikers and couch potatoes.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/d/f/6/600_278235862.jpeg The hike should take no longer than 2 to 2 3/4 hours depending on the group and how long we spend on the summit enjoying the sunset and taking pics.

NOTE: Since this is just a hill on the edge of town, no adventure pass is needed. Just park on the street out front.

RESTROOMS are located at Rancho Park across the street from the trail head, at 1357 MacNeil Drive, Azusa, CA. The current restroom hours are 9AM - 8:30 PM.

Bring a couple bottles of water at the minimum, snacks, hat, sunscreen, and be sure to wear trail shoes or hiking boots.

A few of us will be meeting at Max's Mexican Cuisine afterwards for dinner and drinks. Feel free to join us if you just want to eat a good meal and sample some strong margaritas. Just indicate that on your RSVP. Max's is located at 635 N. Azusa Ave. Azusa, CA 91702.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/2/4/c/600_278236972.jpeg Directions: From the I-210 Foothill Freeway, exit at Azusa Avenue and go north on Azusa Avenue to Sierra Madre Avenue, about 1.7 miles. Turn right (east) and drive 1.1 miles to L.A. County Fire Station #97 at 18453 Sierra Madre Ave. Park on the north side of the street in front of the houses or anywhere nearby that you can find legal parking. Walk to the trail head next to the fire station. Garcia Trail starts at the north end of the grass area. If you are coming from the east, the fire station is 0.5 mile from Barranca Ave.

We will meet in front of the fire station near the trail head. Meet 15 minutes early for introductions.

Heavy Rain or a fire closure cancels. Check Meetup site 24 hours before hike.

Waiver of liability: Please read before signing up for this event. By participating in this event you agree to not hold these assistant organizers or Meetup liable for any harm to you of your property. The hike organizers are not a professional hikers/trained leaders and are not trained to treat medical emergencies. Hiking is an inherently dangerous activity that can lead to injuries which include but are not limited to falls, fractures, rattlesnake bites, poison oak, insect bites, heat stroke, and frostbite. You are responsible for your own safety and being appropriately equipped to participate in the hike. You are also responsible for knowing whether you are physically able to participate in the hike. Always stay on the trail, let the hike organizer know if you are leaving the group, and never walk alone.