What we’re about
Welcome! I created this group in 2012 because I was hiking in a world dominated by morning people. So on the hunch that there might be a few more people like myself, I decided to make a group that does not hike in the mornings. After all, God created mornings for sleeping in, right? This is the one characteristic that makes the PM Hikers different from any other hiking club.
Much to my joy I had a lot of hikers thank me profusely for the group, and several have even told me that the PM Hikers has changed their lives! There is nothing more gratifying than hearing someone tell you that!
So what about beating the summer heat? Instead of hiking in the morning, just hike in the evening! If you think that's weird or scary, I think you will discover that the trails and the views are just as beautiful at night, and will open a new dimension of awe to complement that feeling when hiking in daylight.
That does not mean we only hike at night. Rather, we do not begin our hikes between the hours of midnight and noon. Thus, a 23:59:59 start time is as acceptable as one that begins at 12:00:01.
I know it's awkward when you first hike with people you do not know at all, but if you hike with us you will discover that the members are FRIENDLY, nice people. You could easily make some friendships for life. I certainly have.
If you are new to hiking, read the hike descriptions and send a note to the leader if you are not sure about something. Hiking can be quite physically demanding, but many members are beginners, so don't be afraid.
Watch your step on the downhill,
Kurt Godden
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Long Canyon to Lang Canyon Ridge TrailLong Canyon Trail, Simi Valley, CA
This is moderate 4.5-mile loop hike, with an elevation gain of 820'. Meet me at 6:00pm at the Long Canyon Trailhead, we will wait five minutes then start.
My hikes are casual and slower paced (1.5-2 mph), we take breaks, and we explore. The end time is approximate only. I don't leave anyone behind, and I wait for people to catch up. If this hike is not what you are looking for, please find another that suits your needs. Thank you.
The Hike
Beginning at the Long Canyon trailhead, we will hike up at a steady incline on a single trail until we reach the bench. At the bench we will take a short break and wait for everyone to catch up.We will continue to the Lang Canyon Ridge trail that leads to the Lang Ranch neighborhood. After a short distance through the neighborhood, we’ll grab the Autumn Ridge Trail to the connector that leads to the Woodridge Loop trail and back to the parking lot. We’ll wait at the connector for everyone to catch up.
Checklist
- Bring your flashlights / headlamps.
- Bring enough water that will get you through 4.5 miles (1-2 liters).
- Bring snacks, electrolytes, hat, poles if you need them, sunscreen.
- Wear good hiking shoes or boots, dress accordingly and be prepared for cooler weather.
- I recommend wearing a whistle.
- Pesky insects? bring bug spray.
Other details
- Sunset is at 6:59pm and the last light is at 7:24pm.
- Trail: Single track, fire road, with areas of sand, gravel, and rock, some of it rugged.
- Difficulty: Fit beginner
- Dogs: On a leash per state law
- Restrooms/water fountain: No
- Parking: Free at the trailhead
- Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, slip-'n-fall, poison oak
Google Coordinates and Map
- Google coordinates: 34.228274, -118.803180
- Click here to view the Google map
Driving Directions
From CA-23 and I-101:- North CA-23, exit Olsen Rd.
- Go Right (east) on Olsen Rd., which merges with Madera Rd., for 2 miles.
- Go Right (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy., which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy., for 2 miles.
- Go Right at the dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and then take an immediate left into parking lot.
- Trailhead is at the back corner of the parking lot.
From CA-118:
- West CA-118, exit 23 onto Madera Road.
- Go Left (south) on Madera for about 5 miles to Wood Ranch Parkway.
- Go Left (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy., which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy., for 2 miles.
- Go Right at the dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and then take an immediate left into parking lot.
- Trailhead is at the back corner of the parking lot.
AllTrails Map:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/long-canyon-lang-ranch-4-5-miles-976abf4DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
- You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
- The PM Hiker organizers are not trained leaders and do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips.
- If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
- Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
- Per Meetup rules, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You take full responsibility for your own actions.
- These rules apply to any guests you may invite.
