Eagle Rock Loop Hike

Several members have requested we hike to Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park, and you'll be glad they did. We'll do this in a loop going up on Musch Trail, a well maintained single-track, and back on the shorter Eagle Springs Fire Road. The way up is about 2.5 miles and we'll stop from time to time to enjoy the views. After we emerge from the trail to complete the final ascent on a fire road, you will be rewarded for your calories burned by a view of the absolutely massive Eagle Rock. (Can you see the people on the top in this picture?)

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/9/6/e/600_264875182.jpeg When we perch ourselves on the top of ER, we'll sit in the breeze and take in the breathtaking views of the park, the Santa Monica mountains and the SF Valley. A small glimpse of the Pacific can also be seen in the distance. When stomachs begin to growl we will head back down the shorter Eagle Springs Fire Road back to the cars and we can then meet at nearby Rocco's to extinguish those stomach noises, details below.

Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 850'
Difficulty: On the easy side of intermediate.
Restrooms: Yes, and water too at the trailhead.
Parking: Free or paid (see directions)
Dogs: Not allowed in State Parks

Directions: Take Topanga Canyon from the 101 toward the ocean for about 7 miles and you will see a sign on the right marking the entrance, turn left into Entrada. From PCH take Topanga Canyon north for roughly 5 miles and turn right into Entrada. Stay on Entrada for about a mile. The park entrance is clearly marked. Paid parking is $10 per car inside the park, or free along Entrada before you enter, if you can find a spot. And watch carefully for signs that restrict this free parking! Carpooling is recommended. Use the comments section to advertise your carpool needs. The parking gate closes at sunset, which will be 7:22 pm but we should be done well before then.

Post-Hike Dinner: Rocco's in the Canyon at 123 S Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga, CA 90290. Coming out of the park, turn LEFT onto Topanga Canyon and Rocco's is VERY close, right next to the post office on your right. Italian and pizza with very relaxing outdoor seating. There is also a Mexican restaurant in the same spot if Rocco's doesn't work out for us.

Here is a link (http://alltrails.com/tracks/track-jul-27-306-pm) to my GPS track of this hike, along with more pictures.

Known Dangers include rattlesnakes, slip-'n-fall, and please be careful on Eagle Rock itself. There is lots of poison oak along one stretch of the Musch Trail. I'll point this out, but you may want to wear long pants which you should wash right after the hike, if you think you may have brushed up against the leaves. However you should be able to avoid them if you are careful. I had no problem when I did this hike on 7/27 and I was wearing shorts.

Disclaimer / Release of Liability:

You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions. Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. This Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. You are responsible for you. If you choose to sign up for any events, you are releasing the Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgement and experience. This applies to any guests you may invite.