Gentler: Christmas Eve in the Upper Sycamore Canyon

After this weekend's rain, we may see some sprouting of foliage in the Upper Sycamore Canyon. One way or the other, this 5-mile hike will cover some beautiful ground.

We'll start at the Rancho Sierra Vista parking lot, walk through the Satwiwa area and down the asphalt to the Sycamore Canyon bridge, up the canyon (with a brief stop at the bottom of Fossil Trail to see the artifacts abandoned there during the ranching era) to the waterfall, then back up to the meadow via a short jaunt on the Hidden Valley Overlook trail, then down another small canyon and back to the Satwiwa area and to the cars.

The distance is just a smidgen over 5 miles, with an elevation gain and loss of 1,200 feet. The route is on fire road, asphalt, and well-developed state park trail. There are some steps as we descend into and climb back out of the creekbed. We may encounter poison oak alongside the trail, so long sleeves and pants are suggested.

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We'll head out afterwards for lunch somewhere in Newbury Park (maybe Sossy's), but close enough for dessert at Rita's :-)

DIRECTIONS

Exit 101 at Lynn Road, and follow it southwestward for 5.5 miles (the last mile or so, past Reino Road, is renamed Potrero Road). Turn left at the entrance archway; the road sign says "To State / National Park". If you get to the livery stables, you've gone too far.

ESSENTIALS:

Please wear – brush-resistant pants/shorts, one or more wicking shirts appropriate to the temperature, comfortable hiking shoes or light boots, and a light backpack.

Please bring – at least two liters of water, snacks, an extra layer of clothing, a charged cell phone, identification, a headlamp, a small first-aid kit, bug repellent and sunscreen, a waterproof shell if rain is forecast, and any medications or anything else you might need on the trail.

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.

Although the start and end of the hike are in National Park land, the middle is in Point Mugu State Park, and thus, dogs are not allowed.