All Aboarddddd the Southern Pacific Express - a Gentler Hike


Details
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We did this hike a little while ago, but somehow got sidetracked and missed the trains. This time, we'll pull our cabooses along the main line, right to the life-sized Lionel train display.
One of many ways to experience versatile Wildwood Park, we'll start on the ridge, and travel down to the Santa Rosa Valley on the new Shooting Star connector trail. Once at the bottom, we'll hike to the end of the trail and take a break while viewing the castle gates and giant model train system. We'll retrace our path to return to the cars. http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/e/c/event_99896812.jpeg
We'll hike 5 miles and have about 1000 feet of climbing altogether.
This is a gentler hike. We will go at a more moderate pace than a regular Trailblazer hike, and we'll take more breaks. The purpose is to give novice and intermediate hikers who may feel they're not up to a regular hike a chance to get out and experience our beautiful trails. Faster hikers are welcome to come along, with the understanding that the hike is geared toward those who want to go at an easier pace.
Directions: We'll start on a spur trail that leads down to the Santa Rosa Trail from Wildwood Avenue. From the 101 Freeway in Thousand Oaks, turn north on Lynn Road and continue 2.9 miles to Wildwood Avenue, then turn left. Follow the street around for 0.9 miles. Park at the side of the road near the trailhead. Note that this is a different location from the main Wildwood parking area!
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DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

All Aboarddddd the Southern Pacific Express - a Gentler Hike