What we’re about
Welcome! I created this group in 2012 because I was hiking in a world dominated by morning people. So on the hunch that there might be a few more people like myself, I decided to make a group that does not hike in the mornings. After all, God created mornings for sleeping in, right? This is the one characteristic that makes the PM Hikers different from any other hiking club.
Much to my joy I had a lot of hikers thank me profusely for the group, and several have even told me that the PM Hikers has changed their lives! There is nothing more gratifying than hearing someone tell you that!
So what about beating the summer heat? Instead of hiking in the morning, just hike in the evening! If you think that's weird or scary, I think you will discover that the trails and the views are just as beautiful at night, and will open a new dimension of awe to complement that feeling when hiking in daylight.
That does not mean we only hike at night. Rather, we do not begin our hikes between the hours of midnight and noon. Thus, a 23:59:59 start time is as acceptable as one that begins at 12:00:01.
I know it's awkward when you first hike with people you do not know at all, but if you hike with us you will discover that the members are FRIENDLY, nice people. You could easily make some friendships for life. I certainly have.
If you are new to hiking, read the hike descriptions and send a note to the leader if you are not sure about something. Hiking can be quite physically demanding, but many members are beginners, so don't be afraid.
Watch your step on the downhill,
Kurt Godden
Upcoming events
2
Literary Hike: "Manzanar to Mt. Whitney" - Charmlee Wilderness Park, Malibu
Charmlee Wilderness Park - HWD, 2598 Encinal Canyon Road, Malibu, CA, USPlease join me on an historical adventure with Hank Umemoto, a Nisei (Japanese American), who grew up in Florin, California to live the American dream as a grape farmer alongside his parents, who was confined at the Manzanar internment camp for three years during World War II, and who pursued his greatest passion to hike Mount Whitney – 10 times!
The Book
“Manzanar to Mount Whitney: The Life and Times of a Lost Hiker,” an autobiography by Hank Umemoto.
- You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore, Amazon, eBay, Kindle, Nook, library, or other sources.
- Read more about Hank here. It’s his obituary (he passed away at the age of 91) but it describes his life in detail.
The Hike
My hikes are slow paced (1.5-2 mph) and the end time is approximate only. We take breaks, we explore, and we don't leave anyone behind. If this hike isn't for you, please find another that suits your needs.
This hike is for those who will read the book and join in the discussion. When you RSVP, please confirm that you intend to read the book.
If it rains, I will move the hike to the weekend when it's not raining.
This is a 3.7-mile loop hike with an elevation gain of about 600'. Meet me under the big shady tree, alongside the parking lot and near the restrooms, at 1:00pm. We will start promptly at 1:10pm.
We will stop about midway, either at the reservoir, the ocean view lookout, or the cluster of rocks to have snacks and discuss the book. I’ll be able to pinpoint where we will really stop when we are out there.
Details
- High winds, rain, hot weather, or fire will cancel this hike
- Parking: Free
- Terrain: single track, fire road
- Difficulty: Fit beginner, intermediate
- Restrooms: no
- Dogs: Yes, only if leashed
- Known Dangers: slip and fall, rattlesnakes, poison oak
Essentials
- Bring 2 liters of water, flashlights, snacks, electrolytes
- Bring your hiking poles if needed.
- Wear good hiking boots/shoes, sunscreen, hat
- Bring a jacket for cooler weather
- Bug spray
- Ventura County SARS 10 Essentials
?? A Road Trip ??
I am planning a 2-3 day trip to Lone Pine in April or May (stay tuned). My agenda will include:
- Touring the visitor center, cemetery, and grounds of Manzanar
- A drive to the Whitney Portal, the gateway to Mt. Whitney
- A couple of hikes
- A visit to the Museum of Western Film History
- Headgates to the Los Angeles Aqueduct
Directions to Charmlee
- Address: 2577 Encinal Canyon Rd, Malibu
- Google Coordinates: 34.059028, -118.879472
- View the Google Map
- View the driving directions
DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
- You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
- The PM Hiker organizers are not trained leaders and do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips.
- If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
- Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
- Per Meetup rules, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You take full responsibility for your own actions.
- These rules apply to any guests you may invite.
19 attendees
LITERARY HIKE REMINDER: "Manzanar to Mt. Whitney" - Charmlee Wilderness Park
Location not specified yet*** REMINDER FOR THE UPCOMING LITERARY HIKE ***
I posted the original literary hike event a couple of months ago to give everyone time to read the book. This is a reminder that it's just around the corner.
For those interested in joining us, the book is “Manzanar to Mount Whitney: The Life and Times of a Lost Hiker,” an autobiography by Hank Umemoto. But don't sign up here!
*** CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP ***1 attendee
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