What we’re about
Welcome! I created this group in 2012 because I was hiking in a world dominated by morning people. So on the hunch that there might be a few more people like myself, I decided to make a group that does not hike in the mornings. After all, God created mornings for sleeping in, right? This is the one characteristic that makes the PM Hikers different from any other hiking club.
Much to my joy I had a lot of hikers thank me profusely for the group, and several have even told me that the PM Hikers has changed their lives! There is nothing more gratifying than hearing someone tell you that!
So what about beating the summer heat? Instead of hiking in the morning, just hike in the evening! If you think that's weird or scary, I think you will discover that the trails and the views are just as beautiful at night, and will open a new dimension of awe to complement that feeling when hiking in daylight.
That does not mean we only hike at night. Rather, we do not begin our hikes between the hours of midnight and noon. Thus, a 23:59:59 start time is as acceptable as one that begins at 12:00:01.
I know it's awkward when you first hike with people you do not know at all, but if you hike with us you will discover that the members are FRIENDLY, nice people. You could easily make some friendships for life. I certainly have.
If you are new to hiking, read the hike descriptions and send a note to the leader if you are not sure about something. Hiking can be quite physically demanding, but many members are beginners, so don't be afraid.
Watch your step on the downhill,
Kurt Godden
Upcoming events
3
Hike to Lizard Rock at Wildwood Park
635 W Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA, USThis is a fit beginner to moderate 3.5-mile hike with about a 400' elevation gain. Meet me at the Wildflower Playfield parking lot at 6:30. There is a restroom but I'm not sure when it is locked.
The Hike
My hikes are slow paced (1.5-2 mph) and the end time is approximate only. We take breaks, we explore, and we don't leave anyone behind. If this hike isn't for you, please find another that better suits your needs.
We will hike through the tunnel under the street to the other side, then take the Moonridge trail through the area where the old tv show, Gunsmoke, was filmed. This will lead us to the public access road adjacent to the dirt parking lot and onto the Mesa trail to Lizard Rock. There is about a 200' semi steep incline to reach lizard rock. We'll take a short break at the rock before heading down.
ESSENTIALS
- Please review: Ventura County SARS 10 Essentials
- Bring your flashlights / headlamps.
- Bring a minimum one liter of water, snacks, hat, poles if you need them.
- Wear good hiking shoes or boots
- Dress accordingly and be prepared for cooler weather.
- I recommend wearing a whistle.
- Pesky insects? bring bug spray.
Other Details
- Route type: Out and back
- Terrain: Fire Road, single track, crossing the street, sidewalk
- Difficulty: Fit Beginner
- Dogs: On a leash per state law
- Restrooms: At the parking lot, nature on the trails
- Parking: Free
- Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, slip-'n-fall, tarantulas.
Address / Google Coordinates
- 635 W Avenida De Los Arboles in Thousand Oaks.
- Google Coordinates: 34.217722, -118.894944
- Click here to view the Google Map
Driving Directions
- From the 23, take the Avenida de Los Arboles exit and go west, about 2.5 miles, to the Wildflower Playfield.
- Watch for the baseball field at the corner (on the right) of Avenida de Los Arboles and Canna St.
- The parking lot is just past the baseball field.
- If you reach the dirt parking lot at the end of the road, you have gone too far, turn around.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
- You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
- The PM Hiker organizers are not trained leaders and do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips.
- If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
- Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
- Per Meetup rules, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You take full responsibility for your own actions.
- These rules apply to any guests you may invite.
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