Happy Feet Hikers

⛰️ EPIC SUMMIT QUEST: BACKBONE TRAIL, SANDSTONE PEAK & MISHE MOKWA LOOP!!! 🌄

📅 HIKE DATE: Saturday, May 3, 2025
⏰ MEETUP TIME: 9:00 AM
🚶‍♂️ HIKE START TIME: 9:15 AM sharp (please arrive early and be ready to hit the trail!)
📍 PARKING LOCATION: Yerba Buena Rd Dirt Parking Lot — Coordinates: 34.11433° N, 118.91819° W
🚗 IMPORTANT: Parking is limited — please arrive early to secure a spot and allow enough time to gear up before we start. Carpooling is encouraged if possible!

📏 HIKE LENGTH: 5.9 miles
⏳ ESTIMATED TIME: 3 hours 6 minutes hiking time — plan for up to 3.5 hours total including breaks and snack time
⛰️ ELEVATION GAIN: 1,354 feet
🔁 HIKE TYPE: Loop

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Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through one of the most stunning trails in the Santa Monica Mountains! This Epic Summit Quest combines the best of everything — sweeping views, rugged cliffs, dramatic sandstone formations, and the thrilling reward of standing atop the highest peak in the range: Sandstone Peak at 3,111 feet.

We’ll kick off our journey from the Yerba Buena Road dirt parking lot near the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead. From there, the trail winds through breathtaking landscapes, featuring the iconic Echo Cliffs — a favorite spot for rock climbers (although we’ll just be hiking, not climbing the vertical faces!). Along the way, we’ll pass through fields of wild chaparral, dramatic sandstone outcrops, and reach Inspiration Point — a perfect stop for sweeping 360° views from the Pacific Ocean to the inland valleys.

Near the summit of Sandstone Peak, there are a few short rock scrambling sections where you’ll use your hands for balance, but nothing technical like actual rock climbing. The final push will have you feeling like you’re standing on top of the world!

The reward is nothing short of spectacular — panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
This hike is considered moderate — a perfect choice if you’re looking for a little challenge with truly epic scenery.

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📝 What to Bring:
• 💧 Plenty of water (minimum 2 liters recommended)
• 🍎 Snacks and/or light lunch
• 🧢 Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• 🧥 Layered clothing (it may start chilly but warm up quickly)
• 👟 Good hiking shoes with traction
• 📷 Camera or phone for those unforgettable shots!

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‼️ LIABILITY DISCLAIMER ‼️
By participating in this hike, you and any guests you bring acknowledge and agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety. Patrick Chun and the Happy Feet Hikers organizers are volunteers only — we are NOT professional or paid guides — and we assume no liability for any injuries, accidents, illnesses, property loss, or any unforeseen incidents that may occur before, during, or after the hike. 🚫
Participation is entirely at your own risk. Please honestly assess your physical fitness and come properly prepared. If you bring a guest, you are responsible for ensuring they understand and accept these conditions. Your RSVP, your guest’s attendance, and your participation signify agreement to this waiver.

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‼️ PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER ‼️
📸 Photos and videos may be taken during the event and shared on Happy Feet Hikers’ social media pages and group albums. By attending, you and your guests grant permission for your images to be captured and used for non-commercial purposes related to Happy Feet Hikers activities. If you prefer not to be photographed, kindly let the organizer know at the start of the hike.

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🔥 Get ready for a day of summits, smiles, and unforgettable scenery!
Let’s take on this epic trail together and create memories that will last a lifetime!
SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!!! ⛰️🌄✨

⛰️ CABALLERO CANYON & RESEDA LOOP ADVENTURE!!! 🌲🥾🌄

🗓️ DATE: Sunday, May 4, 2025
⏰ MEET TIME: 9:00 AM
🚶‍♂️ HIKE STARTS PROMPTLY: 9:15 AM
📏 DISTANCE: 3.8 miles
📈 ELEVATION GAIN: 836 feet
⏳ ESTIMATED DURATION: Approximately 1 hour 58 minutes
🔄 HIKE TYPE: Loop Trail
⚡ DIFFICULTY: Moderate

📍 MEETING LOCATION: Caballero Canyon Trailhead — Street Parking Available
Coordinates: 34.14278° N, 118.54103° W
Closest City: Tarzana, CA

Please plan to arrive a little early to allow time for parking and check-in! We will start the hike promptly at 9:15 AM.

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🥾 TRAIL DESCRIPTION:

We’re excited to kick off a thrilling morning adventure on the newly reopened Caballero Canyon and Reseda Loop Trail! ✨

This beautiful trail highlights the natural canyon beauty unique to Southern California’s landscapes. Starting with a peaceful trek alongside Caballero Creek, hikers will experience an immersive canyon environment lined with wild plants, creek beds, and towering canyon walls. 🌿🌊

As we ascend, the trail gently inclines and rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Topanga State Park and the San Fernando Valley. 🏔️ The higher we go, the more sweeping the views — a photographer’s dream!

The trail also offers rich opportunities for wildlife viewing, including hawks overhead, rabbits among the brush, and colorful spring wildflowers brightening the slopes. 🦅🐇🌸

While this is rated a moderate hike, the pace will be friendly, with plenty of time to enjoy the journey, soak in the beauty, and capture some epic moments! 📸✨

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🧢 WHAT TO BRING:
• Water (minimum 1–2 liters) 💧
• Comfortable trail shoes or hiking boots 🥾
• Snacks or light refreshments 🍎🥜
• Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses 🧴🕶️
• Light jacket or layers (morning temperatures may be cool) 🧥
• Trekking poles (optional but helpful) 🦯
• Positive attitude and team spirit! 🌟❤️

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⚠️ LIABILITY DISCLAIMER (Including Guests):
• By attending this event, you acknowledge and accept that hiking involves inherent risks, including but not limited to slips, falls, dehydration, exposure to wildlife, and other potential hazards.
• Patrick Chun and Happy Feet Hikers are NOT professional or paid guides. We are volunteers offering a social, community-based hiking experience.
• All participants and their guests are fully responsible for their own safety, health, and belongings throughout the hike.
• By participating (or having your guest participate), you and your guests agree to waive, release, and hold harmless Patrick Chun, Happy Feet Hikers, and any volunteer organizers from any liability, claims, demands, or causes of action for injury, loss, or damages, whether occurring before, during, or after the hike.
• Participation is entirely voluntary and at your own risk.

Note: If you are bringing a guest, it is your responsibility to inform them of these terms prior to the event.

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📸 PHOTOGRAPHY NOTICE:

Photos and videos may be taken during the hike to document the experience and share within our group community.
By attending, you consent to your image potentially appearing in group photos, online albums, or social media posts.
If you prefer not to be photographed, please kindly let the organizer know before we begin.

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🎉 LET’S MAKE IT A MEMORABLE ADVENTURE!!! 🎉

Bring your happy spirit, your adventurous heart, and your happy feet!!! ❤️👣
We look forward to sharing an incredible day of connection, fresh air, and canyon magic with you all!!!

See you on the trail!!!

⛰️ FISH CANYON ADVENTURE HIKE! ⏩ THROUGH THE NARROWS ⛏️ TO CIENAGA WATERFALLS 💦

📅 SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025 | 🕘 MEET AT 9:00 AM – HIKE STARTS PROMPTLY AT 9:15 AM

Calling all adventurers and nature lovers! Join the Happy Feet Hikers as we embark on an exhilarating journey through the winding Fish Canyon Narrows and venture deep into the Angeles National Forest to discover the peaceful beauty of Cienaga Campground and its hidden waterfalls!

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DETAILS

📍 TRAILHEAD PARKING COORDINATES:
34.60221° N, 118.67053° W – Located at the end of Templin Highway in Castaic, CA.
Park along the shoulder near the locked gate. No designated lot, so arrive early for the best parking spots.

🕘 MEETUP TIME: 9:00 AM
⏱️ HIKE BEGINS PROMPTLY AT 9:15 AM
Don’t be late — we’ll be heading out on time to beat the heat and maximize our time in the canyon!

🎫 ADVENTURE PASS REQUIRED TO PARK
Available at REI stores or online from the USDA Forest Service. Display on dashboard or rearview mirror.

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HIKE STATS

🥾 Distance: 5.7 miles (Out-and-Back)
⬆️ Elevation Gain: 587 feet
🕓 Estimated Duration: 2 hours and 14 minutes (moving time), allow up to 3 hours for snacks, breaks, photos, and waterfall lounging
🌄 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – Suitable for hikers with some experience on uneven terrain and creek crossings

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WHAT TO BRING
• Min. 1.5–2 liters of water
• Snacks or light lunch
• Hiking shoes with good traction (there are several shallow stream crossings)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Bug spray
• Light jacket (can be breezy in the canyon)
• Dry bag or ziplock for electronics
• Trekking poles (optional but useful for balance on rocky sections)
• A spirit for adventure and curiosity!

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IMPORTANT REMINDERS
• Park respectfully along Templin Highway at the gate. Do not block road access or trailhead entry.
• There are no restrooms or water fountains at the trailhead or along the route. Plan accordingly.
• Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Download maps offline (AllTrails or Gaia GPS recommended).
• Please respect nature: Pack out all trash, stay on trail, and do not disturb wildlife.

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EVENT DESCRIPTION — WHAT TO EXPECT

This adventure begins with a short paved walk along the closed portion of Templin Highway, which transitions into a dirt road flanked by chaparral and riparian greenery. Before long, we’ll enter the heart of Fish Canyon Narrows — a dramatic, enclosed gorge with towering rock walls that echo the sound of running water.

Along the way, we’ll cross the creek multiple times, navigate gentle slopes and rocky passages, and marvel at the raw, untouched beauty of the canyon. The sounds of birds, the trickle of the creek, and the occasional splash of waterfalls make this a soothing and immersive experience.

Our turnaround point is the historic Cienaga Campground, a peaceful forest clearing once used as a backcountry site. Nearby, you’ll find a charming seasonal waterfall — the perfect spot for photos, rest, and refueling. We’ll pause here to enjoy snacks, soak in the wilderness vibes, and snap a few group pictures.

This trail is less trafficked and feels wild and remote — yet it’s just a short drive from LA. A true hidden gem for those craving a canyon adventure without the crowds!

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⚠️ LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

By participating in this hike, you and your guests acknowledge that you are voluntarily joining a non-professional, volunteer-led activity and accept full responsibility for your own safety and actions. This hike is organized by Patrick Chun on behalf of Happy Feet Hikers — an informal hiking group with no affiliation to any commercial or licensed guiding service.

You and your guests agree to release Patrick Chun, Happy Feet Hikers, all co-hosts, and any of their guests or participants from any liability for injuries, accidents, illness, property damage, or other harm that may occur before, during, or after the hike. You are responsible for evaluating your own (and your guests’) fitness levels, preparedness, and equipment for this hike. By attending, you confirm that you and your guests have read, understand, and agree to this disclaimer.

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📸 PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER

Photos and videos may be taken during the hike. By attending, you and your guests consent to being photographed and having those images shared for group or promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be included, please inform the organizer before the hike begins.

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LET’S HIKE!!! ⛰️⛏️💦

We can’t wait to hit the trail with all of you! This is one of the most scenic and exciting hikes in our rotation — cool water, soaring canyon walls, and the relaxing beauty of Cienaga Falls await. Lace up your boots, grab your pass, and let’s make this a day to remember!

SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL — LET’S GO HAPPY FEET!!!

⛰️ MUSCH TRAIL TREK ✨ THROUGH THE CHAPARRAL ⏩ TO LEGENDARY EAGLE ROCK!!! 🦅🪨☀️

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📅 HIKE DATE: Sunday, May 11, 2025
🕘 MEET-UP TIME: 9:00 AM
🚶‍♂️ HIKE START TIME: 9:15 AM SHARP!
📏 DISTANCE: 4.6 miles (loop)
📈 ELEVATION GAIN: 958 feet
⏱️ DURATION: ~2 hours 19 minutes – up to 2.5 hours with breaks/snacks
⚠️ DIFFICULTY: Moderate

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📍 LOCATION & TRAILHEAD ACCESS

We’ll begin our adventure at Trippet Ranch in beautiful Topanga State Park — a sprawling natural sanctuary nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. Expect shaded groves, scenic ridgelines, and one of the most iconic rock formations in LA.

📌 Address for GPS:
Trippet Ranch Parking Area
20828 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA 90290

🗺️ Directions:
• From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): Head north on Topanga Canyon Blvd for 4.7 miles, then turn right on Entrada Rd. Follow it 1 mile to the park’s main entrance.
• From the 101 Freeway: Exit Topanga Canyon Blvd, go south for 3 miles, then turn left on Entrada Rd. Follow it all the way in to the parking area.

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🚗 PARKING & FEES
• Daily Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle
• After 4 PM: $5 per vehicle
• Payment Methods: Self-service kiosk in the parking lot accepts cash and credit cards

🅿️ Free Street Parking:
Limited free spots are available just outside the park along Entrada Road. These fill up quickly on weekends — arrive early if you plan to use street parking, and be cautious of signage to avoid fines.

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🚻 AMENITIES

The Trippet Ranch trailhead offers several visitor comforts to help you start and end your hike smoothly:
• 🚽 Restrooms
• 🚰 Water fountains
• 🪑 Picnic tables
• 📋 Trailhead maps & info signs
• 🌳 Shaded areas for pre/post-hike relaxation

🕗 Hours: Park gates open at 8:00 AM and close at sunset

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🥾 TRAIL EXPERIENCE

This scenic loop trail blends peaceful woodland paths with breathtaking ridgeline views. We’ll hike up the Musch Trail, a beautiful, well-shaded single-track trail that winds through oak groves, chaparral, and open meadows with expansive views.

At our high point, we’ll reach the majestic Eagle Rock — a massive sandstone outcrop shaped like a soaring eagle! This natural formation offers stunning vistas of Topanga Canyon, the Pacific Ocean, and (on clear days) Downtown LA. It’s a perfect place for a rest break, snack, and photo op.

We’ll complete the loop by returning via Eagle Springs Fire Road, which provides a gradual downhill stroll back to the trailhead.

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🧃 WHAT TO BRING
• 🥤 1.5–2 liters of water
• 🧢 Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• 🥪 Snacks or light lunch for our stop at Eagle Rock
• 👟 Hiking shoes or trail runners with good traction
• 🎒 Backpack for your gear
• 📸 Camera or phone for capturing views
• Optional: 🦯 Hiking poles for added stability

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⚠️ SAFETY & LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

By attending this hike, you and your guests agree to take full responsibility for your personal safety, belongings, and decisions throughout the event.

Patrick Chun and fellow Happy Feet Hikers organizers are volunteers, not professional or paid guides. We are not liable for any injuries, accidents, lost items, wildlife encounters, or any other incidents that may occur.

This is a group social hike — not a guided commercial tour. Participation is entirely voluntary and at your own risk.

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📸 PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER

Photos and videos may be taken for group sharing and social media. If you do not want to appear in any images, just let the organizer know at the start of the hike — your wishes will be fully respected.

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🦅 WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS HIKE

The Musch Trail to Eagle Rock hike is a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate challenge, and soul-refreshing views. Whether you’re here for fitness, fresh air, or friendship — this hike offers something for everyone.

Expect cool canyon breezes, peaceful trails, and a breathtaking summit that will leave you inspired. You’ll leave with new memories, new friends, and maybe even a few new muscles!

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🎉 FINAL CALL — LET’S HIKE!!!

Join the Happy Feet Hikers for a magical Sunday in the Santa Monica Mountains. Bring your energy, your curiosity, and your best hiking vibes — this one is going to be unforgettable!

SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!!! ⛰️✨🦅🪨🌿🌞🥾