Veterans Day Hike: Nicholas Flat Loop

The Nicholas Flats Trail in Leo Carrillo State park is unique in the way it connects the mountains with the sea. Chaparral, grassland, coastal scrub and oak woodland all converge near the flat with spectacular ocean views along the way. An old cattle pond backed by picturesque sandstone outcroppings provides a home for red-wing blackbirds and a welcoming resting place for us.
Hike is 9 miles with 1800 ft net elevation gain -- 1600 in the first three miles. No need to kill yourself; I'll be marking the trail and you can go at your own pace. No beginners.

We'll take a snack break on the rocks above the pond, overlooking San Nicholas Canyon toward the Pacific Ocean

Check out the photos from our last hike here: https://www.meetup.com... (https://www.meetup.com/localhikers/photos/744288/)

Optional lunch at Neptune's Net or Coral Beach Cantina?

Directions:

Leo Carrillo State Park is on PCH a little east of Mullholland Hwy

From 101 in Valley: Head west and exit Kanan Rd. Head toward beaches and turn right on on PCH. Drive 8 miles to Leo Carrillo State Park and turn right into park entrance

From Hwy 10/West Side: Head up-coast on Pacific Coast Highway about 25 miles to Leo Carrillo State Beach. Turn right into park entrance

From Ventura-Oxnard-Camarillo: Head south on Hwy 1. Park is on left about 10.5 miles past Las Posas

Parking is at least 10/12 bucks. There is some free parking down the road on PCH