Hike to Verdugo Peak (Glendale), Level: Moderate++

Join us on a challenging hike to Verdugo Peak starting from Whiting Woods, Glendale!
This beautiful hike is pretty steep when taking the fire road, but we like challenges, so we'll be taking multiple shortcuts on even steeper single track trails! WARNING: some of them are slipperier and steeper than routes I usually take people to! (I had to touch the ground a few times to get up a few short sketchy spots without poles.) So, going up it will be a mixture of single track trails and fire road. At the top we'll pause at the bench (not the exact peak) for a few minutes to admire the views and have snacks or water. Coming down it will be all fire road to keep things safe. We'll enjoy gorgeous views of the northern part of LA throughout the hike.

LEVEL: Intermediate Plus for speed. We are a friendly group that loves to socialize and encourages newcomers, but please note that moderate++ level of cardio fitness and brisk walking speed are required. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT YOUR LEVEL/SPEED PLEASE JOIN US ON AN EASIER HIKE FIRST. WE'LL HAVE NO SWEEP AND WE CAN WAIT ONLY A LITTLE TO KEEP THE GROUP TOGETHER. Bring a phone with off-line maps in case you want to leave early. (FootPath App is a good free option)

LENGTH: 5 miles ( 2 1/4 miles up, 2 3/4 miles down), 1700 ft elevation gain, 900ft during the first mile ! . +/-2 1/2h.

SPEED: Moderate PLUS. The route is steep, so this may mean 35 min per mile going up including some breaks.

BRING: Hiking shoes with good grip are a MUST (no running shoes) and water. Sun screen? Snack? Poles are useful is you normally use them, but not a must.

MEETING POINT: See picture of the gate. We meet for introductions at 8.30am and we take off at 8.35am sharp. (If you are late and attempt to catch us we'll be taking the first possible shortcut on the right hand side .1 miles after the fire road start)

RESTROOMS: none.

PARKING: Street parking in a residential neighborhood.

PLEASE NO CRASHING! Unfortunately, space is limited. I "overbook" events in anticipation of some last-minute dropouts, so you cannot assume that those spots will be available. The waitlist, if necessary, generally clears in order. Members with a good attendance record and a posted picture (LA Hiking Group rule) may get some priority.

LIABILITY: The organizer is an untrained and unpaid volunteer. By joining this event each member accepts full responsibility for knowing their limits, for injuries and health issues, for material losses, assessing all risks and for getting lost. Each member shall make their guests aware of these policies, also, and release the host from all liability.