The "slow pokes" hike to Echo Mountain

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/e/f/c/event_110688892.jpeghttp://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/0/a/0/event_110689312.jpegThis is the perfect hike for advanced beginners who want to do more advanced hikes but afraid that they cannot keep up with the group. SLOW POKE HIKERS ONLY -NO FAST HIKERS!!!! We will go as fast as the slowest person in the group. No hikers left behind! If you want to go fast, please DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS HIKE!

We will be taking the "easy" way up to Echo Mountain. It will add extra mileage (7 miles round trip) but make it a much more enjoyable hike. We will start at the Chaney Trail and go up the Sunset Ridge Trail to Echo Mountain, then come down the Lower Sam Merrill trail to the Cobb Estate. We will actually start at a private residence that is a couple of blocks from the Cobb Estate, then do some car shuttling to our starting point. The address will be given to all who RSVP "yes".

Stats of the hike:
7 miles round trip
approximately 1200 feet of elevation gain
a mix of full sun and shade
approximately 4-5 hours to complete

We will be going slow (because my knee is still not 100%) and taking lots of breaks (because I'm out of shape). We can stop and eat lunch at the "White City" before coming back down.

Bring:

1. water - at least 2 liters, more recommended if it is hot day.
2. Food and snacks
3. sunscreen
4. good hiking shoes/boots or shoes w/good traction
5. hiking poles - recommended, but not absolutely needed (helps on the way down if you have bad knees)
6. appropriate dress for the weather
7. A fun and "can-do" attitude!

Those who want to carpool from OC to Altadena feel free to discuss in the comments section below.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the history behind Echo Mountain, during the late 1800's-early 1900's there was a railway that took visitors from Altadena to the top of the mountain where a resort once stood. There are still remnants of the old railway, as well as ruins of the resort. The historical society has placed pictures of what it use to look like along the way. For more information on Echo Mountain:
http://www.simpsoncity.com/hiking/echo.html

Again - NO FAST HIKERS!! If you decide to not stay with the group, you will be on your own!!

All who RSVP for this hike will be responsible for their own personal safety. By attending this hike you will not hold the hike leader, this meetup group, or meetup.com liable for any injuries you incur. Hike at your own risk and ability level!