Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Hike (aka Ahmanson Ranch)

Ahmanson Ranch (aka Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve) is our destination this week. It's been used as a filming location over the years. Some of the movies that included segments from here include "Gone With the Wind", "The Charge of the Light Brigade" and "Django Unchained". It's also proved to be a popular filming location for TV shows and Music Videos more recently.

We will be visiting Lasky Mesa.
We'll meet inside the park at the top of Victory Blvd. I would suggest street parking outside the park in case we're a bit late getting back.

ALSO: WE'RE LEAVING AT 6:00pm. I strongly suggest you arrive by 5:45 in order to get your car parked and get up the hill to where we are starting the hike.

NOTE: Please don't sign up for this hike if you have other plans after. The end time is approximate only.
My hikes are casual and slower paced (1.5-2 mph), we take breaks, and we explore.

HIKING DETAILS:
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 500'
Difficulty: beginner (See difficulty categories below)
Dogs: Allowed but must be leashed.
Restrooms: Yes, in parking lot
Water Fountain: No
Parking: Free, outside the park
Trail: Fire road well maintained
Sunset: 8:01 pm, last light: 8:28

PREPAREDNESS: Bring 1-2 liters/quarts of water. Please wear appropriate footwear (preferably hiking boots) and be prepared with extra clothing and a headlamp for our return hike. Hiking pole(s) and a camera might come in handy.

KNOWN DANGERS: Rattlesnakes and slip-'n-fall, possible, but doubtful; Mountain bikers zooming past, much more likely.

DIRECTIONS:
Get on Valley Circle Blvd in Woodland Hills and/or West Hills (there is an exit off the 101, for example), then drive to Victory Blvd in West Hills, and head West, (i.e. uphill) We'll be meeting inside the park at the end of Victory Blvd.
Allow yourself at least 10 additional minutes to park your car and get to the start point.

DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY

1. You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
2. 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.
3. If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
4. Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
5. 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.
6. These rules apply to any guests you may invite.