VD Potluck at Parker Mesa Overlook: Bring a Sweetie, Find a Sweetie!

Not THAT 'VD', you goofball! I'm talking about the GOOD 'VD', which is to say Valentine's Day! Bring your sweetie, maybe even find a sweetie, or possibly you are hoping to forget about an ex-sweetie....you are all welcome and will be rewarded with one of the most romantic views in the area. I'm trying to time this so we get to the Overlook in fading light so you can see Santa Monica Beach and downtown LA in both day and night.

The return to our vehicles will be in the dark, so make sure you bring a flashlight or headlamp.

If you like ocean views, then this hike is a must-see, must-do event. Even if you live in the city, getting to Trippet Ranch is not too difficult (see below)

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Try to bring something consumable that you can share with others, liquid and/or finger food. We'll share at the Overlook where you will have stunning views of the Santa Monica beach, the Getty Villa just below us, downtown LA a bit further to the left, and the southern reaches of Malibu to the right. We'll have time to watch the sunset and the lights of the city come up, socialize, and then head back.

Round Trip Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1000'(? estimated)

Difficulty: Intermediate
Dogs: Not allowed on Topanga State Park hiking trails.
Restrooms: Yes, at the starting location.
Water Fountain: Yes.

Parking:Free outside, so see detail below.

Trail: Fire Road
.
Sunset: 5:37 pm

Directions: From the State's website (lightly edited):

From Pacific Coast Highway: travel north on Topanga Canyon Boulevard, pass the post office at the center of "town," then turn right on Entrada Road. Keep to the left at every opportunity until you reach the park's main parking lot on your left, marked by a sign (about one mile). From the Ventura Freeway (101): exit at Topanga Canyon Boulevard, drive south over the crest of the mountains and proceed approx. 7.8 miles to Entrada Road and turn left. Keep to the left at every opportunity until you reach the park's main parking lot on your left, marked by a sign (about one mile), but see parking instructions below!

Parking:Free street parking along Entrada before you enter the State Park. Just make sure you park only where permitted, which is generally on the left side as you are driving up along Entrada. Alternatively, you can drive to the top of Entrada, then find parking up there on Entrada or along the other side streets. From there, it's a short walk back to the little blacktop that enters the State Park. Just watch for signs so you don't park where you are not supposed to. The Trippet trailhead is on the far right end of the main paid parking lot near the top of Entrada. DO NOT PARK IN THE PARK LOT, THEY TICKET AFTER SUNSET!

Known Dangers: Slip and fall, rattlesnakes (doubtful this time of year).

Our hike difficulty categories:

Beginner: No steep sections. Up to 4 miles in distance and no more than 750' elevation gain.
Intermediate: 4-10 miles, and/or up to 2000' elevation gain.
Advanced: More than 10 miles, and/or more than 2000' elevation gain.

Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions. Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. This Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. You are responsible for you. If you choose to sign up for any events, you are releasing the Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgement and experience. This applies to any guests you may invite.