FATHERS DAY Hike in Casper's Wilderness Park to a Sunday Brunch Picnic

ABOUT THE HIKE: Let's hike some of the most popular trails in Casper's Wilderness Park. Casper's is a 8,000 acre protected preserve nestled among the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana mountains. It is the largest park in the OC Parks system. This is an ideal time of year to enjoy Casper's with Spring conditions, under the old growth Oaks and Sycamores woods. Our route begins in Bell Canyon, taking its name from the local legend that said Native Americans would strike a certain large boulder with a rock, causing the boulder to ring like a bell through the canyon. We will be hiking a 4 mile plus, two hour, loop over the Bell Canyon/Oso/Cougar Pass/Sun Rise Trails. This is an advanced beginner hike over dirt trails having a modest 200 foot elevation gain/loss.

ABOUT THE SUNDAY BRUNCH PICNIC: Following the hike, we will picnic next to the parking area within a beautiful oak grove. BYOF (food). BYOB (beverages). This is a potluck; please bring food to share. This is a non-alcohol area, so exercise adult discretion. Restrooms are available adjacent to the picnic area. Following the picnic as you exit the park, you may wish to visit the Casper's Nature Center.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS: From the 5 San Diego Freeway, take the Ortega Highway exit heading inland approximately 2 miles past Antonio Pkwy.... Turn left into the Casper's Wilderness Park entry and proceed to the gate house.... The weekend day use fee is $5.... Proceed 1.5 miles on the paved road just past the Old Corral to the trail head parking and picnic area. Restrooms are available at this meetup location.

DISCLAIMER: Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.