Begintermediate Potluck Hike to Parker Mesa Overlook

Late Breaking Note: I'm rescheduling this for Nov 16 due to rain and chilly temps.

This popular hike features one of the most beautiful views of the Pacific in this area. With a beginner AND an intermediate option, both involving spectacular beauty, there is something to satisfy all members. We'll meet in LA just off Sunset at the Los Liones trailhead to Topanga State Park. For people who wish an easier, shorter hike we'll ascend the beautiful, shaded single-track Los Liones Trail (first pic) for 1.3 miles to a natural overlook where you will have a clear view of Santa Monica beach and the ocean below.

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For those of you who feel energized by this warm-up, we will continue upward an additional 2.4 miles on the E. Topanga Fire Road until we reach the Parker Mesa Overlook. From this expansive viewpoint we will see Malibu beaches, Santa Monica beach and pier (pic 2), the Getty Villa (pic 3), Los Angeles (pic 4), the Pacific Palisades and the distant blue-meets-blue horizon on the Pacific.

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The view from Parker Mesa is great in the presence as well as the absence of sunlight, but we'll do this one during the day. Sunset is at 6:02 pm.

Whether you decide to attend for the shorter or the longer route, be sure to bring ample water and sunscreen. For people who stay for the longer continuation, how about let's all bring food and drink to share at the top? There is ample room for sitting, wandering about, and posing against the background with no nearby residents to bother with the sound of our mirth.

As always, this hike is not without danger: rattlesnakes are still possible, slip-'n-falls on the hike (particularly on the descent), rabid bites from other hikers, and heaven knows what else. By attending this hike you accept responsibility for your own safety, but if something happens it is comforting to know that others are there to help.

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Easy Hike: 2.6 miles round trip, 555' elevation gain, about 90 minutes.

Intermediate Hike: 7.4 miles round trip, 1300' elevation gain, about 4 hours.

There are restrooms on the right, before you get to the trailhead. Dogs are not allowed on the trails in Topanga State Park.

Directions: From the PCH take Sunset Blvd exit and go the very short distance northward to Los Liones Drive where you will turn left (the only choice). Stay on LLD until you arrive at a church on your left. You can either park right there on the street or just on the right in a parking lot or two that you will see. Parking is free. We'll meet at the trailhead just past the church.

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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.