Hike the Bolsa Chica "Wetlands"­

ABOUT THE HIKE: We will hike a 5.5 miles, mostly flat, hard pack dirt, network of trails that will traverse the Bolsa Chica "Wetlands" and along the Brightwater neighborhood from the Brightwater trailhead to the southern trailhead and back. Established in 1997, this California state owned Ecological Reserve encompasses a total of 1,200 acres of wetlands and 118 acres of upland habitat. The reserve is home to a wide variety of plants, insects, reptiles, mammals, fish, raptors and other bird species. As a vital stopover for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway, more than 200 species of birds have been sighted at Bolsa Chica, including several endangered and threatened species. This is intended to be a relaxed paced walk, with frequent stops at trail junctions and observation points to view the wildlife. Restrooms are available only at the southern trailheads. Dogs are not allowed within the Reserve.

Our post hike celebration will be in the shopping center across Warner at Super Mex for traditional Mexican cuisine.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS: From the 405 Freeway, take the Warner Avenue exit heading toward the ocean.... You have three parking options:

Turn left onto Bolsa Chica St. at the Walgreens and CVS on Warner Ave. Follow straight into Brightwater development and park along street, about 1/4 mile (free). Walk to trailhead at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Brightwater Trailhead. This is the meetup location at the trailhead for our hike.

Or turn right from PCH proceeding one miles to right on Bolsa CHica St. and continue straight to trailhead at the entrance to Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Brightwater Trailhead.

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.