Turtle Rock & French Hill with optional “Double Loop” (~4 Mi) | Optional 2x (~8

Join us for a scenic hike through the beautiful Turtle Rock and French Hill Loop. This hike is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature, make new friends, and get some exercise in a stunning setting.
We will "regroup at all trail junctures" to ensure everyone goes the right way and no one is left behind.
This is a workout conditioning hike composed of a looped route with a mix of trails and sidewalk/bike paths, along with some not too long but fairly steep hills. The two popular hills: French Hill and Suicide Hill at Turtle Rock. This loop, which uses city streets, single-track trails and a little bit of climbing, is one of several possible routes that visit the two summits.
The hike begins with a steep climb up French Hill, gaining 200 feet in about 0.3 miles. At the top, you get a nice view of the Santa Ana Mountains and you can also see the other destination Turtle Rock. Here, you get nice views of the Laguna Canyon area the San Joaquin Hills and nice view of almost all of Orange County and beyond.
We will continue our loop to Turtle Rock then back to trail head.
Optional: continue for a second loop (2x) for ~8 mi. total

Meeting Place: 1 Concordia · Irvine, CA (near Turtle Rock Preschool) park near corner of Turtle Rock and Concordia
Go Time: 7:AM (Expect the hike to last approximately 2 hours; ~3-3.5 hours if doing 2x)
Level 2/2+ (Moderate Pace for distance, elevation, and pace.

Distance: 4.2 mi. ~800ft gain OR Optional 2x: ~8.4 miles, ~1600 ft gain, ~4 hours
Elev. gain: 820 ft. (single loop)
Duration: 2 hrs. OR 4 hrs for double loop
Pace: Moderate
Level: Intermediate
Parking: Free street parking
Facilities: None, Please plan accordingly

Route map**: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/turtle-rock-french-hill-loop-irvine**

Essentials:
· Comfortable hiking shoes
· Water
· Snacks/energy bars
· Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
Please be considerate of others and be on time, 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 other 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.