Beginner Series Hike 3 of 4: Mt. McCoy

Length: 2.6 mileshttp://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/0/7/4/event_139944692.jpeg
Elevation Gain: 600ft
Dogs: Yes
Bathroom: No
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Sunset: 4:50pm
What to Bring: Water, Snacks, and Sweater/Jacket if you get cold easy.

The Mayan calendar may end on on Dec 21, 2012, but the world will continue on. To celebrate, let's take a hike up to one of the most iconic mountains in Simi Valley, Mt. McCoy.

The PM Hikers have done this hike a few times before and it is always a wonderful experience. The trail consists of numerous switchbacks for about 1.3 miles where we will be enjoying the views and noticing the increasing number of volcanic rocks.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/c/2/event_183182242.jpeg

For those that want more of a challenge, you are welcome to take the trail that heads straight up the mountain on loose rocks. This trail has less mileage, but it much more difficult than the standard trail. Plus, everyone on the switchback trail can see your progress and cheer you on, or just laugh. We will then all meet at the top and take the switchback trail back down to our cars.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/2/4/event_183181572.jpeg

The picture above was taken by Kurt on a sunset hike on Mt McCoy

About:
Mount McCoy is an isolated 600-foot knoll in a 200-acre open space at the west end of Simi Valley. A white, concrete cross, erected in 1941, sits atop the 1,325- foot summit and is a visible landmark throughout the valley. The wide trail to the summit is composed of a series of switchbacks for an easy, gradual climb. From the summit are 360- degree panoramas of Simi Valley, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, the Santa Susana Mountains, the Conejo Ridge, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the Santa Monica Mountains. It was engineered and is maintained by the Rancho Simi Trail Blazers.

Source: http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGS360-275

Rain will postpone this hike.

This hike will take place as long as Beginner Series Hike #2 has happened, otherwise it will be postponed.

About the Beginner Series:
This beginner series is aimed at the entry level hiker that is looking to build themselves up so that they feel more comfortable to join the moderate hikes. Moderate and advanced hikers are welcome to join, but this will be more of a social hike.

Hike 1: Corriganville Movie Ranch = 2 miles with 300ft elevation.
Hike 2: Sage Ranch Loop = 2.5 miles with 350ft elevation
Hike 3: Mt McCoy = 2.6 miles with 600ft elevation
Hike 4: Lizard Rock & Paradise Falls = 5 miles with 700ft elevation

Directions:
Get onto Madera Road at the West end of Simi Valley. If coming from the 118, take the Madera Rd South exit, and if coming from US 23, exit at Olsen Road, go to the Right off the exit and Olsen will turn into Madera. From Madera to the stoplights at Royal (There is a shopping area at that intersection), and turn onto west bound Royal going into the residential district. Take an immediate right, then an immediate left and go up the hill to the trailhead on your left. You can park in the street.

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.