Sunset Hills / Bard Lake, Thousand Oaks
Details
This is a moderate 4-mile hike (out-and-back), with an elevation gain of 700'. Meet me at 6:00pm at the Sunset Hills Trailhead on Erbes, we start at 6:05pm.
The Hike
My hikes are slow paced (1.5-2 mph) and the end time is approximate only. We take breaks, we explore, and we don't leave anyone behind. If this hike isn't for you, please find another that suits your needs.
The Sunset Hills Trail is a 238-acre open-space area that provides a great view of Bard Lake, and panoramic views of Conejo Valley, Simi Hills, Camarillo/Oxnard, and the Pacific Ocean. The area features oak woodlands, nonnative grasslands and coastal sage scrub. We may see a variety of bird wildlife, including red-tailed hawks, black-shouldered kites, northern harriers, and owls.
Other Details
- Sunset is at 6:23pm, last light is at 6:52pm (bring your flashlights)
- High winds, rain, hot weather, or fire will cancel this hike
- Dogs: On a leash per state law
- Restrooms: Nature
- Water Fountain: None
- Parking: Free at the trailhead
- Known Dangers: Rattlesnakes, mountain lions, bobcats, tarantulas, scorpions, slip-'n-fall, poison oak
Checklist
- Definitely wear bug spray, there are gnats in some areas.
- Bring a minimum of 2 liters of water, snacks, electrolytes
- Wear good hiking/walking shoes
- Bring your hiking poles if needed.
Directions
- Google Coordinates: 34.232605, -118.838936
- Click here to view the Google Map
The trailhead is located on Erbes about halfway between Olsen Road and Sunset Hills Blvd. It’s a dirt parking lot with no sign and the streetlights are kind of dim. You’ll need to follow the directions carefully if you haven’t hiked this trail. You can easily miss the turn into the dirt parking lot if you're not paying attention.
Driving Directions
Coming from the Simi Valley area:
- Head west on the 118 and take the 23 south to Thousand Oaks
- Exit Olsen Road and turn right
- At about 1/2 mile, turn left on Erbes
- Drive about 1/2 mile or less and turn left into the dirt parking lot
- If you reach Sunset Hills Blvd, turn around and head back
Coming from Westlake/Agoura and Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park:
- From the 101, take the 23 north toward Fillmore (Moorpark)
- Exit the Sunset Hills Blvd and turn right
- At .2 miles turn left on Erbes
- Drive about 1/2 mile or less and turn right into the dirt parking lot
- If you reach Olsen Road, turn around and head back
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.
- 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.
- These rules apply to any guests you may invite.