Challenging STEEP 98%-Moon Hike:Hummingbird Trail to Swing Cave/High Point Loop

More people will attend then showing: This event is cross-posted on 6 other Meetup groups.

STATS
Difficulty: 5/10, Moderate-Long with steep sections
Length: 4.24 miles LOOP, 3 hours + breaks
Elevation Gain/loss: 1797'
Range: 1180'-2297'
View: Lofty view of Simi Valley, Rock formations and Sandstone Boulder Fields

DESCRIPTION
Rocky Peak Park is a critical wildlife habitat between Simi Hills and the Santa Susana Mountains. The trails weave between sandstone boulders, oak savannahs, and perennial water sources.
This is a challenging loop hike that steeply climbs the Hummingbird Trail before jumping on an informal trail that heads east to the cave. The Swing Cave is tucked into a beautiful mound of sandstone boulders. This route also features an optional side trip to the Secret Spot aka The Swing, where a cable is needed to ascend. After that, you will make your way back around on the to the Grunge Trail then jump on an informal trail that heads east to a high point among the sandstone boulders. We head back to the Hummingbird Trail where we reach the tunnel-cave, then we continue back to the trailhead.
Hike is very steep with some rock scrambling. You will encounter arrays of rock formations and boulder fields along the way. Downloading offline maps is recommended.

TRAILHEAD INFO
Meet at the Hummingbird Trail Trailhead.
2954-2980 Kuehner Dr, Simi Valley, CA 93063
Google Map Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1f1TKPJm1jJf52g38
GPS Coordinates: 34.282110247911874, -118.66050837122516
Plus Code: 78JQ+RV Simi Valley, California

Please arrive by 6:50 pm for a 7 pm start.
If ANY questions, call Keith (hike leader) 213.507.2221

Night-hiking in LA is amazing! Trails are practically empty, breeze is cool, & the beautiful city below you offers unlimited full-definition entertainment!

We take short rest stops as needed. At the peak/midpoint, we take a nice break to have beer/soda/snacks & look at beautiful scenery.

Please RSVP & arrive by 6:55 pm for a 7 pm start. Change your RSVP ASAP if you can’t make it to give others a chance to hike. Repeat “No Shows” will get last priority on future hikes.

COMMON-SENSE NOTES

• COVID-19, Cold & FLU Advisery: Please stay home if you are not feeling well or have recently been exposed to someone who is sick.
• Please wear hiking boots or footwear with good tread
• Consider long pants in case there is some brush along the way
• Bring plenty of water to drink
• Bring a headlamp to use after dark
• Fun, yummy snacks are always appreciated
• Bring a Cheerful Attitude :-)

We hike every Tuesday night & for variety we do other trails that are similar to this one (never boring).

We hope to see you!

Steven & Keith
213.986.7669

***
PLEASE - Know your limits & abilities. Check weather conditions, dress accordingly & be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watching out for poison oak, snakes, ticks, uneven footing, spectacular views, beautiful fauna all while interacting with awesome (usually) fellow hikers can be extremely hazardous, rewarding & fun.

VHC HIKE RATING SCALE
Rating a hike is subjective, meaning the difficulty of a hike will be in direct relation to how often you hike & the type of hike you prefer. Keep in mind that any hike can have the following: un-even hiking surfaces, various obstructions, water/water crossings or bouldering/rock hopping. A great hike will have all of these!

1 – A long walk
2 – 4 mile hike w/little elevation gain (E.G.)
3 – 5 mile hike w/up to 1000 ft. E.G.
4 – 5+ mile hike w/up to 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increases at times)
5 – 7+ mile hike w/over 1500 ft. E.G. (heart rate increasing even more at times)
6 – 7+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be trying to remember how to perform CPR)
7 – 5+ mile hike w/over 2000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be muttering expletives to yourself)
8 – 10+ mile hike w/over 3500 ft. E.G. (at times you might be angry with the hike leader)
9 – 10+ mile hike w/over 5000 ft. E.G. (at times you might be thinking of reporting the hike leader to the authorities)
10 – Use your imagination

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports & other events we plan can be inherently dangerous & accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety & well-being. The Meetup Group & its organizers are not trained leaders & 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 any Meetup events, you are releasing the Meetup Group & it's organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment & experience.