Mustard–Vista Lookout–Billy Goat (~10 mi) / Red Rock Alt (~8 mi, Moderate Pace)

Join us for a rewarding morning on the trails! We’ll take on a loop that blends challenge with scenery, offering open views and rugged terrain. Our route begins in Borrego Canyon, follows Mustard Trail all the way to the gate, then turns back to connect with Vista Lookout before continuing through rugged stretches of trail. At ~10 miles with about 1,800 ft of elevation gain, this hike combines long climbs, uneven footing, and steady pacing — a great workout for stamina, leg strength, and trail fitness. Expect variety, effort, and the satisfaction of a solid morning well spent.

If you’d prefer a shorter route (around 7–8 miles), you can trim the distance and add a detour to Red Rock — a striking highlight worth seeing if you haven’t been there before.

Please Note: Not So Casual means our hikes double as a workout — brisk pace, solid climbs, and an endurance challenge paired with a friendly, supportive group vibe. Come prepared with gear, water, and your best effort, and you’ll fit right in. The group moves at a steady, moderate-to-fast pace and may not wait if you fall behind, so please know your limits and be ready to hike at this level — or plan to finish on your own, ideally by pairing up with someone at a similar pace.

Meeting Details:

Meeting Point: By the big sundial statue near the Borrego trailhead (adjacent to Ralphs and the gas station, and across from McDonald’s).
Parking: Small lot at the trailhead ($3 fee or OC Parks Pass). Free lot across the street between McDonald’s and the nearby shops.
🚫 Do NOT park at Ralphs — security patrols and actively tickets cars.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance / Elevation / Duration: ~10 miles, ~1,800 ft gain, estimated ~3.5–4 hours at a moderate to fast pace. Shorter option ~7–8 miles with Red Rock.
Map: Whiting Ranch Trail Map (OC Parks)

Essentials:

• Traction hiking shoes
• Water (1.5-2L; electrolytes recommended)
• Quick snacks
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or sun protection

Route:

We’ll begin on Borrego Canyon Trail and follow Mustard Trail all the way to the gate before turning back. On the return, we’ll take the spur to Vista Lookout, then head back toward Cactus Pond.

• Long Route (~10 miles / 1,800 ft): From Vista, continue to Billy Goat Trail, loop through 4 Corners, and return via Mustard to Borrego.
• Shorter Route (~7–8 miles): From Vista, turn toward Red Rock (optional) before reconnecting with Borrego for the return.

Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.

Disclaimer & Safety Notice: Not So Casual Hikes are challenging outings designed for hikers in strong shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We hike at a steady pace and the group may spread out. Please be prepared to navigate independently if you fall behind, though we’ll aim to check in at major junctions when possible. By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation, and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service. Hiking carries inherent risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions. Be prepared for sun exposure, heat, or marine layer conditions depending on the day.