Hump Day Hike - Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve And Dam

This week we'll start a bit early in hopes of seeing some wildlife before it's too dark. Looks like Wednesday will be warmer than the weekend. I'll update as we get closer.

This urban hike will take us on a 2.5-3 mile loop, around the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve. The reserve is home to an extensive bird refuge and native plant re-vegetation area situated on an island at the center of its surrounding pond. If we're lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an osprey or a blue heron (like the one in the picture), we will be very fortunate. As an added bonus, we will also explore the Sepulveda Dam (built in 1938) and walk along part of the L.A. River.

For more fun facts, check out KCET's blog about the reserve: https://www.kcet.org/food-living/in-the-heart-of-the-valley-how-to-explore-the-sepulveda-basin-wildlife-reserve
and
https://sfvaudubon.org/venue/sepulveda-basin-wildlife-area/

HIKING DETAILS
Time: 6:15pm. We will start at 6:20
Sunset: 7:37 pm (we'll have light till a bit after 8 - bring your flashlight)
Where to meet: Corner of Burbank Blvd and Woodley Ave, on Woodley
Distance: 2.5 – 3 miles
Elevation gain: about 50’
Route type: mostly flat wide dirt path
Speed: 2-2.5 mph
Weather: Mid- to low-60s; I’ll keep you posted
Difficulty: Beginner - Easy
Dogs: On a leash per state law
Restrooms: No
Water Fountain: None
Parking: Free on the street
Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, slip-'n-fall
No guests please

WHAT TO BRING
Binoculars and/or camera
Flashlight or Headlight
At least 2 liters of water
Snacks for energy
Electrolytes
Good hiking/walking shoes
Dress according to the weather

DIRECTIONS TO THE WILDLIFE RESERVE and MAIN TRAIL
coordinates: 34.173390, -118.476123
Corner of Burbank Blvd and Woodley Ave

From the 101 heading east:

• take the Balboa Exit
• turn left on Balboa
• turn right on Burbank
• turn left on Woodley Ave
• park on the right

From the 405 heading south:

• take the Burbank Blvd Exit
• turn right on Burbank
• turn right on Woodley Ave
• park on the right
• Or get recommendations from Google depending on traffic

• Note: There is a fairly new strain of the covid virus starting around. Please DO NOT attend this hike if you are showing signs of COVID-19 or flu/cold.

DISCLAIMER/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.
• By participating in this event, 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 their own actions.
• These rules apply to any guests you may invite.