Las Llajas Canyon to an Abandoned Mining Operation Hike

Join me Wednesday, August 20 to hike a shaded canyon and then go up to the old Cochina Mine. This group usually does not hike at a slow pace so please keep that in mind if joining.
Starting out Las Llajas Canyon Trail is fairly easy but it does become a moderately difficult hike if you decide to hike up to the mine area. As a group we can decide if we are up to going up the hill to the mine or not, so it will depend on how we feel due to weather, light etc and if we can stay together. If we go to the mine it might be more like 7 miles. You can always decide to stay in the canyon and do the easy route and we can decide as a group if we want to go a little further.
The mine at the top still has some shells and interesting relics! Each time I go I see or learn something different about the place.

This hike should probably only take about 2 hours at my pace but allow for 3 just in case! We will take a short break to explore the mine area and then head back the way we came. It will probably be dark on the way back so please make sure you have a light. The hill up to the mine is steep and not for beginners, The canyon portion is easy and scenic but please wear shoes appropriate for hiking with good tread.

Distance: 6 miles (or more depending on what you decide)

Elevation Gain: 1000'

Difficulty: Easy Intermediate

Dogs: no

Restrooms: no

Water Fountain: No

Trail: Out and back

Sunset: 7:36 pm please bring a light or charged phone to be safe

Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes can be on this trail so beware! Something else occasionally sighted here depending on the time of year are wandering steers since the trail is in a ranching area. Slip-'n-fall is always possible so please wear good shoes or use poles if you wish to, poison oak may also be on the trail so watch what you brush up against.

Bring:

• Please bring at minimum a water bottle of at least a liter, a mistake beginners often make is thinking it is cool or easier so they do not need much water. I would rather carry it and not need it than not have it.
• An optional snack if you think you need one for when we take a little break at the mine or at our halfway turn around point.
• Flashlight/headlamp it will be dark going back, a charged cellphone would be okay for your light for this hike
• Hat or sunglasses if you feel you need them since we start in daylight
• An extra layer to put on and off, when you stop it can get chilly!

This hike will be cancelled: if it is excessively hot, windy, rainy or if less than 2 people besides myself are signed up by the afternoon of the event.

Driving directions and parking: 118 Yosemite offramp go toward the hills and turn right at Evening Sky, trailhead on the left. Park on the street but watch the signs for the sections that say no parking.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:

• You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.

• If you choose to sign up for any event, you are releasing the organizers of PM Hikers from all liability in case of possible injuries.

• The organizers of PM Hikers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being.

• Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.

• Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.