Rocky Peak Modified - Intermediate or Fit Beginner - 1000th event!

4 miles, 950' gain, Intermediate
2 miles, 550', Fit Beginner

This will be our 1000th meetup event since the group started. We have such a great bunch of people that attend these hikes!

This is a modified version of the famous Rocky Peak hike. It gives those that want something easier, a chance to climb one of the most well known trails in Simi Valley.

It contains beautiful sandstone formations throughout the hike and there are fantastic views of the valleys. There is really no way to get lost because there are no junctions. If one chooses, they can turn around and return to the beginning at any point during this climb.

The beginning contains continuous and somewhat steep incline of about 1000 steps. It's a fire road, so it's not steeper than a truck can climb. Still, beginners will find this short climb to be exhausting. There is nothing wrong with taking short breaks and doing it slowly, as there will be plenty of time.

After 1 mile, we'll arrive at the Hummingbird trail and bench. This is where we'll have a social event. Those that have had enough, should wait for 30-45 min. unltil the others that went further, return, and can explore the various rock formations there: at least two caves along the edge of the trail within a few hundred feet.

Additional Segment
Those that want something extra will continue for 1 more mile, and just after the final and steep ascent to the top, there will be a junction off to the right. They'll turn around and return to the bench. Those proceeding with this segment can do all or part of it.

At the bench, we'll share snacks and beverages, enjoy the views, and engage in social interaction for about a hour before returning the way we came.

It can get windy and cool in the evening, so I would recommend bringing something light to put on.

Interesting Notes:
Here are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike:

California Sagebrush
Aromatic when crushed. AKA, common sage, coastal sage. Sunflower family. Cowboys used to ride through it and brush up against the pine-shaped leaves, coming home with the smell on their clothes and giving rise to the nickname "Cowboy Cologne." Not a true sage. Can be used as a cooking spice and can be made into a tea. Tear off some needles by running your hand up the stalk and smell the aroma.

Purple Sage
Grey-green leaves. Aromatic when crushed. Purple flowers. Aka, Tobacco Sage, with mild hallucinogenic properties when smoked. Can be used as a spice or made into a tea. Tea has medicinal affects: Antiviral, gargle for sore throats, reduce hay fever symptoms and other drying actions. In the last summer, fall, and winter months, the flowers will have turned brown and the leaves we take on a greyer color.

Directions:

Rocky Peak Trail
Simi Valley, CA 93065
34.268396, -118.636139

From the 118
Exit Rocky Peak Rd.
Trailhead on the north side.

Park either at the trailhead (limited parking), or south of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.

From the 101 @ CA-23
North CA-23 for 8.4 miles.
East I-118 for 14 miles.
Exit 32 Rocky Peak Rd.
Trailhead on the north side (left).

Park either at the trailhead (limited parking), or south (right) of the freeway along Santa Susanna Pass Rd.

The Hike
Distance: 4 miles, easier option 2 miles.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 950', easier option 550'.
Difficulty: Intermediate / Fit Beginner
Pace: 2.0 mph
Dogs: Yes.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No
Parking: Free at the trailhead (limited parking, not recommended as you can get a ticket after sunset for parking there) or across the freeway 500'.
Trail: Fire road.
Purpose: Social

What to Bring:
1-2 liters of water.
Snack and Beverage Share
Hiking shoes preferred, but athletic shoes will be OK.
Flashlight or headlamp.

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