Borrego to Vista Lookout, Billy Goat & Red Rock (~8mi, L2/2+)

🥾 Billy Goat Trail Sneak Peek! 🥾
Vista Lookout & Red Rock preview

Join us for an intermediate-level, ~8-mile hike beginning on the Borrego Trail, ascending to Vista Outlook, continuing along the Billy Goat Trail, and extending to Red Rock. Expect a solid workout with about 1,000-1,200 feet of elevation gain and stunning views!

Details:

• Meeting Place: By the big 'sundial' statue in the park near the trailhead (west of the gas station).
• Meeting Time: 7:30 AM (Expect the hike to last approximately 2.5–3 hours).
• Parking: There is a small parking lot at the trailhead that requires either an OC Parking Pass or a $3 fee. Alternatively, you can park across the street in the lot between McDonald's and the nearby shops. ***Avoid parking near Ralph's, as security patrols that parking lot and may issue tickets.
• General Rating/Difficulty: Level 2/2+ (Moderate Pace for distance, elevation, and pace.
• Distance/Elevation/Duration: Estimate: approx. 8 miles, 1200+- ft gain, and ~2–2.5 hours (moderate pace).
• Note: This is a group workout; there is no designated leader or sweeper.

Essentials: Ensure you are prepared for the journey with:

• Traction hiking shoes
• Ample water
• Snacks
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Hat

Route: We’ll take the Borrego Canyon Trail to Mustard Trail, hike up to Vista Outlook, and then turn around back to Mustard. From there, we’ll head to Cactus Pond, take the Billy Goat Trail to 4 Corners, return to Mustard, and continue to the optional Red Rock extension before heading back via Borrego Canyon.

About Whiting Ranch: Explore the natural beauty of Limestone Canyon & Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, spanning 4,300 acres of diverse landscapes. From riparian and oak woodland canyons to rolling grassland hills, immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, including the captivating Red Rock Canyon. Witness remnants of the park's cattle ranching past as it rejuvenates from the 2007 Santiago Fire.
For more information:

• Orange County Parks
• Whiting Ranch Wilderness

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.

REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
#hiking #outdoors #rucking