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DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250921T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250921T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250920T164554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250920T164617Z
UID:10000003-1758470400-1758484800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wildwood Park Potluck Hike - Las Flores
DESCRIPTION:Fit Beginner – 4 miles\, 600′ gain\nThe gain is well distributed\, with half being on the return. \nWe start at the Las Flores trailhead where Las Flores dead-ends at Wildwood Park\, and head west. After 1/3 mile\, the trail becomes Wildwood Canyon Trail. We continue for another 2/3 mile and cross a bridge just past the Meadows Picnic area. \nWe’ll make a left\, continuing on Wildwood Canyon Trail\, past the Tee Pee Trail\, behind Paradise Falls\, left at the split\, and after about a mile\, Wildwood Canyon Picnic area will be on the left. There will be several tables. \nThis is a potluck picnic. Please bring some food and drinks to share.\nIf your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any.\nWe’ll share snacks and drinks for 60 – 90 minutes\, before heading back the way we came. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 4 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty: Fit Beginner\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nDuration: 4.0 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.\nRestrooms: Yes\, at the picnic area.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\, at tje picnic area.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots.\nFlashlight or headlamp (if it will be dark during any part of the event).\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. Click the link to see the route. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks in the shape of an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections\nLas Flores Trailhead\n604 W Avenida De Las Flores\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wildwood-park-potluck-hike-las-flores/
LOCATION:604 W Avenida De Las Flores\, West Avenida De Las Flores 604\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2120414;-118.8915093
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=604 W Avenida De Las Flores West Avenida De Las Flores 604 Thousand Oaks CA 91360 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=West Avenida De Las Flores 604:geo:-118.8915093,34.2120414
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250923T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250923T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250920T164612Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T164556Z
UID:10000004-1758650400-1758663000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Chumash - Intermediate\, with Easy option
DESCRIPTION:4 miles\, 950′ gain\, Intermediate\nEasy Option: 1.6 miles\, 400′ gain\, Fit Beginner\nHardest option: 5 miles\, 1200′ gain\, Intermediate \nThe entire hike outbound is a steady incline. Nothing super steep\, just continuous and quite strenuous for many. There are virtually no junctions where one can get lost. \nThis is one of the more famous hikes in Simi Valley\, and for good reason. Much of the hike takes place along the edge of the mountain. The trail in spots is a bit rugged and rocky\, so a good tread on your shoes is recommended. \nIt is a part of the Chumash Natural Park that includes sandstone rock formations\, caves\, and beautiful vistas of Simi Valley. The land is owned by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Rancho Simi Recreation & Park District. It is maintained by the Rancho Simi Trailblazers and patrolled by the Volunteer Trail Safety Service. \nWe’ll all begin the climb together. Those doing the easier option will stop after 0.8 miles and wait for about 45 minutes until the rest of us return to this spot for our social event. While waiting\, they can continue to climb any portion they want and return to this spot\, or just take in the views. \nThe rest will continue for 1.3 miles until a flat rock. Those that want the hardest option\, continue for another 0.5 miles and 250′ gain to the end of the trail. Head back down the same way to the social event spot. \nAt the social event spot\, we’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Simi Valley and will share snacks and beverages. \nThere is really no way to get lost on this hike\, so everybody will move along at whatever pace they want. \nHike (click this link for a pic)\nDistance: 4.0 miles (1.5 mi for easy option\, 5.0 mi for hardest option)\nGain: 950′ (400′ for easy option\, 1200′ for hardest option)\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the first half.\nDifficulty: Intermediate (Fit Beginer for easy option\, Intermediate for hardest option)\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nTrail Variations: The entire first half is incline. Some of the trail is rugged sandstone. Some of the trail is covered in large gravel.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting\nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nCalifornia Encelia\nAka\, California Bush Sunflower\, California Brittlebush\, Coast Sunflower\, El Dorado. \nCenter is brown. When the center is yellow\, it is Brittlebush\, from the brittleness of the stems. This is from the daisy family\, and it is typically used as an ornamental plant. \nMediterranean Mustard / Black Mustard\nMediterranean mustard seeds are yellow or white\, while Black mustard seeds are brown or black. The flowers look the same. \nFlowers\, leaves (mustard greens)\, and roots are edible. Can be used as a spice. Grind seeds and mix with water and vinegar to make prepared mustard. This is often a very abundant noxious weed (has been designated by an agricultural authority as one that is injurious to agricultural or horticultural crops\, natural habitats or ecosystems\, or humans or livestock.). It grows everywhere along the sides of the trail\, often having to be cut back during trail maintenance. \nDid you know that cabbage\, mustard greens\, collard greens\, kale\, broccoli\, cauliflower\, brussels sprouts\, and prepared mustard\, are all from different parts of the wild mustard plant? \nDirections\nChumash Trail\n3200 Flanagan Dr.\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.293497\, -118.671176 \nFrom CA-118\nI-118\, exit Yosemite.\nNorth on Yosemite for 1.3 miles.\nRight (east) on Flanagan Dr. for 08. miles.\nContinue until the street ends and park. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/chumash-intermediate-with-easy-option/
LOCATION:Chumash Park\, Flanagan Drive 3200\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/31_image_highres_498268541.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2931709;-118.6710778
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Chumash Park Flanagan Drive 3200 Simi Valley CA 93063 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Flanagan Drive 3200:geo:-118.6710778,34.2931709
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250925T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250925T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250920T164614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T164556Z
UID:10000005-1758823200-1758835800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Limekiln Canyon Lollipop - Suitable for beginners
DESCRIPTION:4 mi\, 500′ gain\, beginner\nEasier option: 1.5 mi\, 125′ gain\, beginner. \nThis is a beginner hike on the beautiful Limekiln trail. \nThis hike is a slight lollipop\, (the shape of the route). There are no extended inclines\, however there are about 5 bumps in the trail with 25-40′ gains\, about 35-65 steps each. This is something a beginner would be able to handle\, but these bumps will get the blood pumping\, as they are like climbing up to 4 flights of stairs. There is nothing wrong with pausing for a breather while tackling these bumps in the trail. \nThe trail varies between asphalt\, gravel fire road\, single tracker\, tree covered\, hilly\, roadside\, wooded\, open air\, and strolls through the park. \nWe’ll enter Limekiln Canyon\, where we’ll first encounter a heavily wooded park with large pine trees lining the trail and blocking out the sun. After about 0.2 miles\, there will be a split. We can go either way because they rejoin after about 100 yards\, but for this route\, we’ll go left. \nAfter another half mile\, the route makes a turn to the right. Those that want the super-easy route should continue straight for 100 yards to a log\, where they can wait about 45 min for the rest of us to return for the social event. \nThe rest of the group will follow the trail to the right and continue for about 1.2 miles. Right after the trail reaches a junction\, we’ll take a trail off to the right\, and follow it until we reach Sesnon Blvd.\, then travel about 20 yards west\, and head back in on a different trail. \nAfter several hundred yards\, we’ll reconnect with the original trail for the return\, making a right onto the downward trail. \nJust before we complete the last 3/4 mile\, we’ll turn right instead of left. After about 100 yards\, we’ll find a great spot with a giant fallen tree trunk to have a social event snack and beverage share. \nAfter about 30-60 minutes\, we’ll continue the last 3/4 mile back to our cars. Those that don’t want to stick around are welcome to head back to their cars by any route they choose\, but I’ll take a few splits to the left and cover some different trails\, each that returns back to the original trail after several hundred yards. \nThere will be a couple creek crossings\, where one will use a few stepping stones to avoid getting wet. Click HERE for route. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nCalifornia Buckwheat\nWhen the white flowers turn a rusty brown\, they can be crushed into a powder\, mixed with water\, and baked into bread. The black seeds in the flower heads are also edible. Don’t touch the white flowers if bees are around because they won’t like it and may attack. A cold tea made from the leaves has been used to treat stomachaches and headaches. A warm tea made from the roots has been used to treat colds. The stems are stiff and flexible\, so they have been used by Indians as piercing utensils. \nLaurel Sumac\nRed stems and outline along leaves. The dried flower bunches look like small trees\, and are used by model railroad builders as such\, after being dyed green. Laurel sumac is sensitive to cold and does not tolerate freezing conditions. Orange growers in the early history of southern California used to pick places to plant their oranges based on where laurel sumac was growing because this indicated it would not get too cold for oranges if laurel sumac could grow there. For some\, the sap will irritate their skin just like poison oak\, causing blisters. Also called “Taco Plant”. \nDirections:\nLimekiln Canyon Trail\nPorter Ranch\, CA 91326 \nFrom the 118\nExit Tampa Ave (3 miles east of the Topanga Canyon exit) and head north for 1000′.\nLeft (west) on Rinaldi St. for 1000′.\nTrailhead on the right (north).\nPark on either side of the street. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 4 miles\, easier option 1.5 miles.\nElevation Gain: 500′\, easier option 125′.\nDifficulty: Fit Beginner\, easier option Beginner.\nPace: 2.5 mph\nDogs: Yes\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No\nParking: Free on either side of the street in front of the trail head.\nTrail: Varied. Good condition. \nWhat to Bring:\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\n1-2 liters of water.\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/limekiln-canyon-lollipop-suitable-for-beginners/
LOCATION:Limekiln Canyon Trail\, Rinaldi Street 19569\, Los Angeles\, CA\, 91326\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/34_image_highres_499467119-1.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2750146;-118.5591276
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Limekiln Canyon Trail Rinaldi Street 19569 Los Angeles CA 91326 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Rinaldi Street 19569:geo:-118.5591276,34.2750146
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250930T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250930T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250929T164622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T164622Z
UID:10000044-1759255200-1759267800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Hill Canyon - Hawk Lollipop - Easy Intermediate\, beginner option
DESCRIPTION:5.3 miles\, 600′ gain\, Easy-Intermediate\n2.5 miles\, 100′ gain\, Beginner \nWe start by crossing a bridge into a wooded area and continue down a relatively flat path alongside a stream. After about a mile\, we’ll come to a junction. \nFor those that want the full hike\, we’ll turn right and complete a 3 mile loop with 500′ of gain\, stopping just before the end of the loop for a social event at the picnic table on the left\, where we’ll share snacks and beverages for about 60 minutes. \nEasier Option.\nFor those that want to keep it beginner\, don’t turn right at the junction and continue for 1/4 mile and no gain. That same picnic table will be on the right. \nReturn.\nContinue the loop for 1/4 mile\, then a relatively flat walk back for about a mile. For those that took the easy option\, that same return is the way we came. \nHike Distance: 5.3 miles\, Beginner option is 2.5 miles.\nGain: 600′\, Beginner option is 100′.\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the second quarter.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate/Easier option is beginner.\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road.\nTrail Variations: The first mile is mostly flat.\nAll of the trail is well groomed and not rugged.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes\, at trailhead\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in lot next to trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. Click the link to see it. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nInteresting Notes \nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nWild Oats\nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \nRed Brome\nGrass like with thorny appearing tops. A sub-species of foxtail chess. Can lead to flash fires. Winter fires don’t kill the seeds. \nDirections: \nHill Canyon Trailhead\n10241 Hill Canyon Road (address is before trailhead\, continue to gravel lot on left)\nSanta Rosa Valley\, CA 93012\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.226495\, -118.930374 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west to CA-23 south.\nExit 19 Tierra Rejada Rd.\, turn right (west) for 0.5 miles\nLeft (south) on Moorpark Rd. for 1.4 miles.\nRight on Santa Rosa Rd. for 3.7 miles.\nLeft on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nFrom CA-101 (from Camarillo and farther west):\nExit Santa Rosa Rd. north for 4.9 miles.\nTurn right (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nFrom CA-23 and CA-101 (from Thousand Oaks):\nNorth on CA-12 for 3.1 miles.\nExit 16 Sunset Hills Blvd. and left (west) for 0.9 miles.\nLeft (west) on E. Olsen Rd. for 0.8 miles.\nRight (north) on N. Moorpark Rd. for 1.9 miles.\nContinue on Santa Rosa Rd. west for 3.7 miles.\nTurn left (south) on Hill Canyon Rd. for 0.6 miles.\nParking in gravel lot on left. \nParking can be very tight because it is also popular with bicyclists. Car pooling suggested\, because it would be sad for someone to not be able to hike because there isn’t any place to park. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/hill-canyon-hawk-lollipop-easy-intermediate-beginner-option/
LOCATION:Hill Canyon Trailhead\, Hill Canyon Road 10241\, Camarillo\, CA\, 93012\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/118950_image_highres_497560553.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2304118;-118.9315708
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Hill Canyon Trailhead Hill Canyon Road 10241 Camarillo CA 93012 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Hill Canyon Road 10241:geo:-118.9315708,34.2304118
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251002T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251002T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250929T164624Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T164624Z
UID:10000045-1759428000-1759440600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mt. McCoy
DESCRIPTION:Easy Intermediate\, 3 miles\, 600′ gain\nEasier Option: 2.4 mi\, 530′ gain. 5 Washburn St\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nWe’ll meet in the parking lot at the northeast corner of Madera and Royal\, just south of the Donut Delite\, on the east side of the Clinicas office. We’ll walk from there to the trailhead at 2 Washburn St. where it meets Los Amigos Ave. \nThe Hike\nEasy end of the Intermediate Spectrum\, due to the 1 mile continuous incline that can get exhausting. A fit beginner can easily complete it. \nWe cross Madera and continue through the neighborhood for about 1500′\, to the intersection of Washburn St. and Los Amigos Ave. This is also the starting point for the easier option. \nWe enter a path behind the houses and proceed for 250′ to the entrance. So far\, there will have been very little elevation gain. \nWe’ll enter a series of switchbacks (zig-zag trail) for 1.2 miles to a large cross at the top. This is a steady climb across the face of the hill\, always in full view of the neighborhood below. Beginners may find this climb difficult to continue at a fast pace. There is nothing wrong with slowing down while faster hikers move ahead\, or resting for a minute several times during this climb. \nIt may seem easy to get lost because there are many different cross-paths up the face of this hill\, but they all lead to the same place. Generally\, whenever there is a choice of “left or right”\, we take the easier and more worn path. If you happen to find yourself alone and take a wrong turn (aka steep cut)\, all paths lead up. \nAt the top by the cross or one of the nearby benches\, we’ll enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree views and share beverages and/or snacks. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nBlack Sage\nMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \nPurple Sage\nGrey-green leaves. Aromatic when crushed. Purple flowers. Aka\, Tobacco Sage\, with mild hallucinogenic properties when smoked. Can be used as a spice or made into a tea. Tea has medicinal affects: Antiviral\, gargle for sore throats\, reduce hay fever symptoms and other drying actions. \nDistance: 3 miles (round trip)\nElevation Gain: 700′\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate\nDuration: 3 1/2 hours\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – at nearby places of business\nDrinking Fountains: Yes – at nearby places of business\nParking: Free\nTrail: Mostly single-track\, excellent condition\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK. \nWhat to Bring\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDirections\nFor those doing the regular route:\n1424 Madera Rd\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/mt-mccoy/
LOCATION:Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera\, Madera Road 1424\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/118953_image_highres_530405899.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.264806;-118.7958573
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera Madera Road 1424 Simi Valley CA 93065 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Madera Road 1424:geo:-118.7958573,34.264806
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251004T092000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251004T204000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20250920T164623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T164628Z
UID:10000006-1759569600-1759610400@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Avocado Festival - Carpinteria
DESCRIPTION:Let’s take the train — From Simi to Carp!\n39th Annual California Avocado Festival \nIf you are taking the train\, purchase tickets using the app or a computer\, BEFORE arriving at the station. \nSaturday – October 4\, 2025\nFESTIVAL ENTRANCE IS FREE! \nPrior events to the festival:\nOctober 2021\nOctober 2022\nOctober 2024 \nTrain Schedule\, $20 each way:\nSimi Valley 10:11a Carpentaria 11:32a \nReturn Train Options\nCarpentaria 2:03p Simi Valley 3:37p\nCarpentaria 4:50p Simi Valley 6:23p\nCarpentaria 7:15p Simi Valley 8:48p \nLink to Amtrak \nTrain Trips\nThere are no machines to buy Amtrak tickets at the station and they cannot be purchased onboard. If you try to use their website from your phone\, it isn’t optimized for phones and you may end up having some obscured buttons. Download the app. \nSign up for guest rewards before you purchase your ticket. Otherwise\, if for any reason you don’t receive their e-ticket\, you won’t have a number for recalling your purchase and you’ll have to call their customer service number to get it resent. \nMeet near the tracks in Simi Valley starting around 9:20 AM.\nThe first photo attached represents out “approximate” path:\nLink to Route \nWe’ll start with a hike (an easy walk\, no hiking shoes or poles needed) to Carpinteria Bluffs & Beach with its tide pools & tar pits\, then trip around (and back & forth between) Islands Brewery\, the Avocado Festival\, Rincon Brewery & Giovani’s Pizza\, other great restaurants\, etc. We’ll let AMTRAK take us back to Simi Valley at the end of the day! \nALTERNATIVELY: Drive yourself and meet at the Carpinteria station around 11:32a\, or look for your hiking friends on the beach-front trails\, along Linden Ave\, and nearby breweries. \nAND: You may be able to book passage from other start locations\, e.g. Chatsworth\, Van Nuys\, Ventura\, etc… \nFestival Link\nThe festival runs from 10a – 10p on this day. \nPlease comment when you have purchased your train tickets!
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/avocado-festival-carpinteria/
LOCATION:5050 E Los Angeles Ave\, East Los Angeles Avenue 5050\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.270424;-118.6957006
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=5050 E Los Angeles Ave East Los Angeles Avenue 5050 Simi Valley CA 93063 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=East Los Angeles Avenue 5050:geo:-118.6957006,34.270424
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251005T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251005T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251001T063311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T063311Z
UID:10000051-1759680000-1759692600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Angel Vista - Full Moon Potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:3.0 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy-intermediate.\nMoonrise 6:20 pm\nPhoto by Helen \nLet’s enjoy the gorgeous sunset\, full moon\, and fun loaded potluck picnic at the beautiful Angel Vista! \nThis is a potluck hike. Please bring food\, drinks to share.\nIf your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks\, etc.\, please bring them.\nYou may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any. \nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nThis hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep\, but it is continuous\, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate. \nThat said\, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed\, just stop and rest along the way\, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike\, and you really can’t get lost. \nThe only junction is 200 yards before the top\, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb. \nAt the top\, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have a snack-share social event at the top for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share\, and utensils of your item requires it. \nThe top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top. \nInteresting Notes \nTree Tobacco\nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \nElderberry\nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \nDirections:\nRosewood Trailhead\n398 Regal Oak Ct.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320 \nFrom the 101\nVentu Park exit\, South (toward ocean).\nRight on Lynn Road for 1000′.\nLeft on Regal Oak Ct. for 1/3 mi.\nPark on the street \nHike Distance: 3.0 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half\, which is a continuous climb. \nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/angel-vista-full-moon-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:Rosewood Trailhead\, Regal Oak Court 305\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1725018;-118.9146475
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rosewood Trailhead Regal Oak Court 305 Thousand Oaks CA 91320 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Regal Oak Court 305:geo:-118.9146475,34.1725018
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251009T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251009T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251008T165121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T165121Z
UID:10000057-1760032800-1760045400@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Whitehorse Lollipop - Intermediate / Easier option
DESCRIPTION:Intermediate\, 5.25 mi\, 1000′ gain\nEasy option: 2.8 mi\, 700′ gain.\nEven easier option: 2.2 mi\, 600′ gain. \nFit beginners can complete this hike\, but it will certainly get their blood pumping. This is not a conditioning hike\, it’s a social hike. We’ll be stopping at various points to let people catch up and to make sure they make any turns. \nWe’ll start by climbing the Triunfo Canyon trail for 0.9 miles. Those that want the “Even easier” route will make a left\, and after 50 feet\, turn right at the fire road dead end and continue for 0.9 miles to a staircase on the right\, where they can wait for the rest of us. \nThe rest will continue for 0.35 miles\, where we’ll hit a plateau. We’ll stop there and regroup\, taking in the views. \nThose that want to take the “Easy option” will go left for 0.2 miles and 110′ gain to the social event spot. \nThe rest of us will continue onto the Los Robles trail\, a fire road\, for another 1.25 miles\, at which point we’ll come to a junction heading down. \nWe’ll head down and then up\, the Whitehorse Canyon trail for 1 mile\, then make a left onto the Conejo Crest Trail. We’ll follow that trail for 3/4 mile to a set of stairs and a bench. There\, we’ll have a snack and beverage share social event for 30 – 60 minutes before heading down the last mile back to our cars. \nReturning\, we’ll go down the Brookview trail for 0.2 miles\, making a left when we can\, going about 100 feet before turning right at a dead end\, and taking the Triunfo Canyon trail back down the way we came. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 5.25 miles / 2.8 miles\nElevation Gain: 1000′ / 700′\nDifficulty: Intermediate / Easy Intermediate\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\nParking: Free at the trail head.\nTrail: Varied. Good condition. \nWhat to Bring:\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\n2 liters of water.\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDirections \nTriunfo Community Park\n1869 Tamarack St.\nWestlake Village\, CA91361 \nFrom Simi Valley:\nCA-118 west to CA-23 south\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles\nUS-101 east/south for 1.5 miles\, exit Hampshire Rd.\nRight on Hampshire Rd. south for 1/2 mile\nRight on Triunfo Canyon Rd. for 1/2 mile\nRight on Tamarack St. for 1000′ to dead end.\nLeft into parking lot. \nFrom the East:\nUS-101 west/north\, exit Westlake Blvd.\nLeft on S. Westlake Blvd. for 1 mile\nRight on Triunfo Canyon Rd. for 1/2 mile\nLeft on Tamarack St. for 1000′ to dead end.\nLeft into parking lot. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/whitehorse-lollipop-intermediate-easier-option/
LOCATION:Triunfo Community Park\, Tamarack Street 1869\, Westlake Village\, ca\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119134_image_highres_523305812.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1567787;-118.8453821
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Triunfo Community Park Tamarack Street 1869 Westlake Village ca 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Tamarack Street 1869:geo:-118.8453821,34.1567787
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251014T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251014T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251012T164613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251012T164613Z
UID:10000072-1760464800-1760472000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Long Canyon - Lower Loop - Easy Intermediate with Fit Beginner option
DESCRIPTION:3 miles\, 800′ gain\, Easy Intermediate.\nEasy option\, 1.4 miles\, 450′ gain\, Fit Beginner \nThe address given is not the address of the hike. It is nearby and may cause you to drive past the trailhead if navigating by GPS. \nRoute\nFrom the trailhead parking lot\, up for 0.7 mile on Long Canyon Trail to a bench. For those doing the easy option\, wait here about 40 minutes. They can spend that time going out and back in the area\, if they like. \nFor the regular route\, we continue with a 2 mile loop\, 400′ of gain:\nWe turn right\, go up 300 feet\, then down Sunrise Trail 4/5 of a mile.\nLeft at the junction for 300 feet.\nLeft at the split for 200 feet up a relatively steep incline.\nLeft on Autumn Ridge\, which is a fire road.\nContinue on this extended incline for about almost a mile\, arriving at the five-points intersection.\nTake a sharp left and continue for about 500′ back to the bench where those that did the easy route will be waiting. \nWe’ll have a snack share social event for 30-60 minutes before turning right and heading back down to the trail head parking lot. \nInteresting Notes \nTurkey Mullein\nSmashed leaves can be thrown into the water to stupify fish\, causing them to float to the surface\, a practice illegal in most states. The seeds are not toxic to birds and are enjoyed especially by doves and wild turkeys. \nAncient Greeks rolled and dried the leaves\, then used them as wicks for oil lamps. It stalks were used as torches burned at funerals. Many tribes employed the use of mullein leaf tea for coughs\, colds\, and rheumatism. They considered it to be analgesic\, anti-inflammatory\, antispasmodic\, and expectorant. The astringent and demulcent properties of the leaf tea were found useful in cases of diarrhea. \nWild Oats\nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \nHike \nDistance: 3 miles\, easy option 1.4 miles.\nGain: 800\, easy option 450.\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the first 15 minutes of the hike\, followed by an extended incline at the halfway point.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Lollipop\, counter-clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, single and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations: The beginning is a tough climb.\nThere is an extended incline of about 2000 steps half way through the hike.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the paved parking area in front of the trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp for hikes that end after sunset.\nSunscreen and/or hat if needed. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \nThose that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share\, can head directly back down to the parking lot. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the 3/4 point. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nDirections\nWhere Long Canyon Rd. and S. Wood Ranch Pkwy. intersect in Simi Valley. There is a free paved parking lot at the trailhead on the southwest corner. \nFrom CA-23 and I-101\nNorth CA-23\, exit Olsen Rd.\nRight (east) on Olsen Rd.\, which becomes Madera Rd.\, for 2 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, for 2 miles.\nRight at dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nFrom CA-118 and CA-27\nWest CA-118\, exit 23 onto 1st St.\nLeft (south) on 1st St.\, which becomes Long Canyon Rd.\, for 5 miles.\nCross at dead end (intersection with S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.228330\, -118.803130\nA nearby address that should get you to pass by the trailhead: 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/long-canyon-lower-loop-easy-intermediate-with-fit-beginner-option/
LOCATION:572 Bannister Way\, Bannister Way 572\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119223_image_highres_498435814-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2292317;-118.8045943
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=572 Bannister Way Bannister Way 572 Simi Valley CA 93065 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Bannister Way 572:geo:-118.8045943,34.2292317
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251016T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251016T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251012T164618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251012T164618Z
UID:10000073-1760637600-1760650200@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Las Llajas - Suitable for beginners
DESCRIPTION:5 miles\, 500′ gain\, Beginner \nThis hike is a great trail for beginners because all the elevation gain is distributed. It is a walk down a rolling fire road through a really cool canyon\, and you will find no difficult or extended elevation climbs. \nThis is one of my favorite trails for people new to hiking. It is an “out-and-back” hike\, where we return the way we came\, so there is virtually no chance of getting lost. You may be amazed that such a place exists right here in Simi Valley. \nFrom the trail head\, we’ll walk down an asphalt path for several hundred steps and turn right onto a gravel fire road. After that\, there will be no more turns. We may take a detour up a trail off to the right to see the first bee sanctuary\, then return back to the fire road. \nWe’ll continue on the fire-road for about 1 mile. We’ll stop there (in the shade if summer) to allow others to catch up. \nThen we’ll take a 200′ detour to the left to see another bee sanctuary\, which continues in a half circle back to the fire road. Even though I haven’t seen any actual bees there in a while\, it’s still interesting to see. \nWe’ll continue for another 1.5 miles and have a social event\, right on the trail. We’ll share snacks and beverages. We may adjust the exact location if there are winds. \nFor the return\, we go back the way we came. \nThere is a lot of wild life along this trail because it is the only area with water for quite a distance. \nThis is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. Still\, for those that aren’t interested in the beverage and/or snack share and want more of a workout\, just continue on for another mile\, then turn around and come back. That’s about how long we’ll be before packing up and heading back the way we came. \nInteresting Notes:\nTree Tobacco (Nicotiana glauca)\nElongated yellow flowers. The Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. \nIt does not contain nicotine. It contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. \nUsed as an insecticide. Do not smoke it. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 5 miles\nGain: 500′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty: Beginner\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road.\nTrail Variations: Rolling stroll.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nHosting \nRoute and Navigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. This hike does not have any junctions or turns once past the initial path down to the fire road. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nSince this hike is out-and-back on a wide fire road with no turns after the first 500′\, one cannot get lost. Therefore\, for this hike\, it will be acceptable to split from the group moving faster\, slower\, or otherwise at your own pace. \nGroup separation:\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections\nLas Llajas Canyon Trail\n5715 Evening Sky Dr\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063 \nFrom the west\n23-N to 118-E\, Exit 29 Yosemite.\nFrom the east: 118-W\, Exit 29 Yosemite.\nHead north on Yosemite for 1.25 miles. Turn right (east) on Evening Sky Drive and proceed for 0.5 miles.\nSee the trail head on the left. Park along the street. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/las-llajas-suitable-for-beginners/
LOCATION:Las Llajas Canyon Trail trailhead\, Evening Sky Drive 5715\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119226_image_highres_499360041.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2971976;-118.6804838
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Las Llajas Canyon Trail trailhead Evening Sky Drive 5715 Simi Valley CA 93063 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Evening Sky Drive 5715:geo:-118.6804838,34.2971976
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251019T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251019T190000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251014T164551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T164551Z
UID:10000078-1760889600-1760900400@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Los Padres Potluck Hike
DESCRIPTION:3.5 miles\, 700′ gain\, Easy Intermediate.\nEasy Option: 2.4 miles\, 285′ gain\, Fit Beginner. \nWe’ll start by entering the Los Padres trail\, through a spooky oak covered section\, then move through until we come to a dead end. We’ll turn right\, and climb up to another junction\, where we’ll turn right onto the Los Robles trail. \nAfter 500 feet\, we’ll take a split off to the right and continue along the Vista Loop until we come to a bench at the top. Then we’ll start heading down\, and when we come to a picnic table\, we’ll stop for a social event. Let’s call it the “Giant’s Picnic Table” because of the thick pieces of wood used. \nEasy Option: In the reverse direction as the rest of the group\, go 350′ to the end of Los Padres Dr.\, left on S. Moorpark Rd. for 1000′. Enter the trail and follow it for about a mile. It will curve left and you will arrive at the social event. \nThis is a pot luck picnic. Please also bring something to eat and drink\, and a little extra to share. If your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any. \nWe’ll share snacks and drinks for 30-60 minutes\, before continuing down and around for our return. \nIf you don’t wish to stay for the entire social event\, please study the map posted with description so you are able to navigate the remainder of this trail without the host \nHike Distance: 3.5 miles\nGain: 700′\nDistribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Loop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nTrail Variations:\nSeveral extended inclines of 1000 steps.\nSeveral steep sections of 300 steps\, but no hands required.\nDuration: 3.0 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route LINK \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nInteresting Notes\nThese are a couple plants you are likely to see on this hike:\nYucca\nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo or soap. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA.\nPronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. Adam says they taste like radishes. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or scrape off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage.\nWild Cucumber\nToxic. Boil fruit in water to make spikes easy to remove. Inside is a natural luffa. Tubars (thickened part of a stem\, usually underground\, like the potato) can be crushed and thrown into water to immobilize fish.\nAlmost the entire plant is poisonous. Although wild cucumbers are related to the familiar\, domestic vegetable\, the prickly “cucumbers” consist not of fleshy fruit\, but of two seed chambers containing lacy netting. \nDirections \nLos Padres Trailhead\n15 Los Padres Dr.\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361 \nFrom I-101:\nWest of CA-23\, I-101\, exit S. Moorpark Rd.\nSouth on Moorpark Rd. north for 1000 ft.\nLeft on Los Padres Dr.\nAfter 200 ft\, trailhead on the right.\nPark on the street. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/los-padres-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:Los Padres Trailhead\, Los Padres Drive 15\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119428_image_highres_520898972-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1723976;-118.8768788
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Los Padres Trailhead Los Padres Drive 15 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Los Padres Drive 15:geo:-118.8768788,34.1723976
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251021T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251021T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251017T164656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T164656Z
UID:10000084-1761069600-1761082200@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Long Canyon - Lower Loop - Easy Intermediate with Fit Beginner option
DESCRIPTION:3 miles\, 800′ gain\, Easy Intermediate.\nEasy option\, 1.4 miles\, 450′ gain\, Fit Beginner \nThe address given is not the address of the hike. It is nearby and may cause you to drive past the trailhead if navigating by GPS. \nRoute\nFrom the trailhead parking lot\, up for 0.7 mile on Long Canyon Trail to a bench. For those doing the easy option\, wait here about 40 minutes. They can spend that time going out and back in the area\, if they like. \nFor the regular route\, we continue with a 2 mile loop\, 400′ of gain:\nWe turn right\, go up 300 feet\, then down Sunrise Trail 4/5 of a mile.\nLeft at the junction for 300 feet.\nLeft at the split for 200 feet up a relatively steep incline.\nLeft on Autumn Ridge\, which is a fire road.\nContinue on this extended incline for about almost a mile\, arriving at the five-points intersection.\nTake a sharp left and continue for about 500′ back to the bench where those that did the easy route will be waiting. \nWe’ll have a snack share social event for 30-60 minutes before turning right and heading back down to the trail head parking lot. \nInteresting Notes \nTurkey Mullein\nSmashed leaves can be thrown into the water to stupify fish\, causing them to float to the surface\, a practice illegal in most states. The seeds are not toxic to birds and are enjoyed especially by doves and wild turkeys. \nAncient Greeks rolled and dried the leaves\, then used them as wicks for oil lamps. It stalks were used as torches burned at funerals. Many tribes employed the use of mullein leaf tea for coughs\, colds\, and rheumatism. They considered it to be analgesic\, anti-inflammatory\, antispasmodic\, and expectorant. The astringent and demulcent properties of the leaf tea were found useful in cases of diarrhea. \nWild Oats\nThe mature seed of the plant is used as a cereal grain. All oats have edible seeds\, although they are small and hard to harvest in most species. Oats are hard to tell apart from weedy relatives\, so the term “sowing wild oats” came to be used to describe unprofitable activities and destructive sexual liaisons of an unmarried young male that could result in children being born out of wedlock. \nHike \nDistance: 3 miles\, easy option 1.4 miles.\nGain: 800\, easy option 450.\nDistribution: Most of the incline is in the first 15 minutes of the hike\, followed by an extended incline at the halfway point.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Lollipop\, counter-clockwise.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, single and double track. Areas of sand\, gravel\, and rock\, some of it rugged.\nTrail Variations: The beginning is a tough climb.\nThere is an extended incline of about 2000 steps half way through the hike.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free in the paved parking area in front of the trail head. \nWhat to bring:\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp for hikes that end after sunset.\nSunscreen and/or hat if needed. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \nThose that wish to return immediately instead of hanging around during the snack and beverage share\, can head directly back down to the parking lot. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the 3/4 point. \nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or some sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nDirections\nWhere Long Canyon Rd. and S. Wood Ranch Pkwy. intersect in Simi Valley. There is a free paved parking lot at the trailhead on the southwest corner. \nFrom CA-23 and I-101\nNorth CA-23\, exit Olsen Rd.\nRight (east) on Olsen Rd.\, which becomes Madera Rd.\, for 2 miles.\nRight (south) on N. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, which becomes S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.\, for 2 miles.\nRight at dead end (intersection with Long Canyon Rd.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nFrom CA-118 and CA-27\nWest CA-118\, exit 23 onto 1st St.\nLeft (south) on 1st St.\, which becomes Long Canyon Rd.\, for 5 miles.\nCross at dead end (intersection with S. Wood Ranch Pkwy.) and immediate left into parking lot.\nTrailhead at the opposite corner. \nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.228330\, -118.803130\nA nearby address that should get you to pass by the trailhead: 572 Bannister Way\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/long-canyon-lower-loop-easy-intermediate-with-fit-beginner-option-2/
LOCATION:572 Bannister Way\, Bannister Way 572\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
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ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2292317;-118.8045943
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=572 Bannister Way Bannister Way 572 Simi Valley CA 93065 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Bannister Way 572:geo:-118.8045943,34.2292317
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251023T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251023T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251017T164659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T164659Z
UID:10000085-1761242400-1761255000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Angel Vista - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3.0 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy-intermediate.\nThis hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep\, but it is continuous\, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate. \nThat said\, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed\, just stop and rest along the way\, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike\, and you really can’t get lost. \nThe only junction is 200 yards before the top\, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb. \nAt the top\, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have a snack-share social event at the top for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share\, and utensils of your item requires it. \nThe top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top. \nInteresting Notes \nTree Tobacco \nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \nElderberry \nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \nDirections:\nRosewood Trailhead\n398 Regal Oak Ct.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320 \nFrom the 101\nVentu Park exit\, South (toward ocean).\nRight on Lynn Road for 1000′.\nLeft on Regal Oak Ct. for 1/3 mi.\nPark on the street \nHike Distance: 3.0 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half\, which is a continuous climb.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/angel-vista-easy-intermediate/
LOCATION:Rosewood Trailhead\, Regal Oak Court 305\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119567_image_highres_521940678.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1725018;-118.9146475
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rosewood Trailhead Regal Oak Court 305 Thousand Oaks CA 91320 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Regal Oak Court 305:geo:-118.9146475,34.1725018
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251024T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251024T230000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251012T164620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251012T164620Z
UID:10000074-1761334200-1761346800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Sagebrush Cantina: Hindsite
DESCRIPTION:Many from this group\, plus other friends\, will attend this event at Sagebrush Cantina. The band playing (Hindsite) puts on a fantastic show\, playing dance\, pop\, r&b/funk\, and hip hop music from the 70’s up to the latest hits. \nThis is one of the best venues I’ve experienced on LA’s west side\, and this is one of the best bands I’ve seen at this venue. Come see a Hollywood quality show for free. Hindsite will have you dancing all night! \nWe’ll be seated either in the outdoor area\, or indoors\, depending on the weather. Seating is often tough here\, so even if we don’t all sit together\, we’ll be seeing one another on the dance floor! \nThe band starts at 8p\, but get there an hour earlier and maybe you’ll get a seat with the group. \nSagebrush Cantina\n23527 Calabasas Rd\, Calabasas\, CA 91302\n(818) 222-6062 \nEvents Calendar (Sagebrush Cantina)\nEvents Calendar (Hindsite) \nHiking Plus Page Links
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/sagebrush-cantina-hindsite/
LOCATION:Sagebrush Cantina\, Calabasas Road 23527\, Calabasas\, CA\, 91302\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119229_image_highres_485360747.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1576324;-118.6395561
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Sagebrush Cantina Calabasas Road 23527 Calabasas CA 91302 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Calabasas Road 23527:geo:-118.6395561,34.1576324
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251026T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251026T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251021T164751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T164751Z
UID:10000092-1761494400-1761507000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Chesebro Canyon MTB trail potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:Fit Beginner 4.3 miles\, 480′ gain.\nEasier Option: 4 miles\, 230′ gain. \nWe walk a mostly flat section for 1.1 mi. to the 2nd junction. \nEasier option: Continue straight for 3/4 mi.\, left at the split\, right after another 500′\, arriving at some picnic tables on the right after another 750′. \nRegular route: Left\, heading up a switch back. Right at the top\, and continue for 3/4 mi.\, turning right where it ends. Head down to the bottom\, left at the split. After 750′\, we arrive at some picnic tables on the right. \nThis is a pot luck picnic. Please bring something to eat and drink to share. If your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any. Pot Luck guidelines Link \nWe’ll share snacks and drinks for 60-90 minutes\, then return by a straight path\, no turns. \nFun Facts\nWhat is MTB?\nAnswer: Mountain Bike (not Mountain Terrain Bike)\nThe name I see on a map is: Chesebro Canyon MTB Trail \nWhy is it spelled Cheeseboro Canyon\, Chesebro Canyon MTB Trail\, and Chesebro Rd?\nThe original owner of the land in the late 1800s was Oscar Cheesebrough. The NPS adopted the U.S. Geological Survey spelling of Cheeseboro\, while Caltrans adopted the name Chesebro.\nReference Link  \nHosting \nRoute\nThe host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description. The host may vary the route slightly. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nWe will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns\, else something will be used to mark the direction. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nBlack Sage\nMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. \nBlack sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \nOther\nDogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table. \nDirections\nChesebro Canyon MTB trail\n5402 Chesebro Rd\, Agoura Hills\, CA 91301 \nFrom I-101:\nExit Chesebro Rd..Palo Comado Canyon Rd.\nContinue north. It becomes Palo Comado Canyon Rd and rotates west.\nRight at Chesebro Rd. for 0.4 miles.\nPark on the street.\nAfter the 1 lane bridge\, you’ve gone too far. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/chesebro-canyon-mtb-trail-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:5402 Chesebro Rd\, Chesebro Road 5402\, Agoura Hills\, CA\, 91301\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119613_image_highres_520174014-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1478678;-118.7372535
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=5402 Chesebro Rd Chesebro Road 5402 Agoura Hills CA 91301 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Chesebro Road 5402:geo:-118.7372535,34.1478678
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251028T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251028T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251027T165936Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T165936Z
UID:10000104-1761674400-1761687000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Paradise Falls - Moonridge - Easy Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3.3 miles\, 800′ gain\, fit beginner \nA hike to Paradise Falls is one of the most popular things to do for those visiting Simi Valley\, yet a lot of people that live nearby rarely make this fun hike or perhaps have never done it. There are several paths one can take to the falls. This one is the Moonridge loop from Mark T. \nThe waterfall is always flowing. It is fed by urban run-off\, surface water waste created by urbanization\, and feeds into a small pond. \nWe start from the tennis court lot 4 blocks E. of the main parking lot and across the road. \nWe’ll head about 100 steps north and go down and into an under-street tunnel to cross the road. Turn right out of the tunnel\, and follow this path around. \nThere are several splits of this trail\, so follow the group. The trail leads through a thick canopy to the bottom of the steps that lead to the main parking lot. We’ll regroup there. \nWe’ll continue along the Moonridge trail\, following it around\, crossing a fire road\, and left at the North Teepee trail for about 500′ to a large Teepee. We can take a few pictures\, there’s a drinking fountain\, and we can rest a moment. Then we’ll continue down to the waterfall and hang out for a short while. \nTo continue\, we’ll head partly back up and cross the back side of the waterfall along Wildwood Canyon trail. After about another 200 yards\, we’ll come to couple picnic tables on the right where we’ll share snacks and beverages. \nReturning Early\nFor those that wish to head back instead of hanging around for the entire snack share\, you are responsible for finding your own way back: \nYou can either follow the posted route and map\, or take this alternate route: left at the next junction\, a relatively steep up for 200 yds. back to the Teepee\, turn right and continue 1/2 mile until it dead-ends\, turn right. After 1/2 mile\, you reach the main parking lot. Turn right at the road for 4 blocks and cross the street to find the tennis court parking lot. \nContinuing with the group\nWe’ll continue for 1/3 mile along the Wildwood Canyon trail\, cross the bridge\, make a left\, and follow the Indian Creek trail for 1 mile until arriving back through the tunnel and back to the parking lot. \nIf you are not following the leader on the return\, you should know:\nAfter crossing the bridge and turning left\, you will come to a creek. We’ll be taking a sharp turn to the left a few feet before the second creek. It’s easy to miss and almost doesn’t even look like a trail. \nYou will see several plants of note \nPrickly Pear Cactus\nInside and fruit are edible. Remove needles and scrape to remove hairs\, cut top off\, hollow out to make water container. Burn or scrape off needles – even stones can be used if you don’t have a knife. Fruit peels easily. Eat seeds and all. Use duct tape to remove thorns from hands. \nSugar Bush\nLooks almost like Laurel Sumac. Pointy leaves\, which is one way to tell it apart from the Lemonade berry. Has fuzzy red berries in long clumps that can be used to make a lemonade like drink. Sap from the fruit can be used as a sweetener. Leaves are edible. \nDirections: \nWildwood Park\n635 W Avenida De Los Arboles\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91360 \nFrom the 118\nCA-118 west to CA-23 south\, 4.8 miles to exit 15\, Avenida de los Arboles.\nTurn right (west) on Avenida de los Arboles for 3.3 miles until 4 blocks before it ends. There will be tennis courts on the right with a parking lot. \nParking: If the lot is full\, additional lot 750′ back the way you came (ESE of tennis court lot)\, or use the neighborhood across the street. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 3.3 miles\nElevation Gain: 800′\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – when we arrive at the main parking lot.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\, at the TeePee\, almost half way through the hike.\nParking: Free.\nTrail: Double and single track\, fire road. \nWhat to Bring\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp for evening hikes.\nRepellent – There can be gnats. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/paradise-falls-moonridge-easy-intermediate/
LOCATION:Tennis Court parking lot\, West Avenida De Los Arboles 635\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119682_image_highres_497637803.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2176977;-118.8946614
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Tennis Court parking lot West Avenida De Los Arboles 635 Thousand Oaks CA 91360 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=West Avenida De Los Arboles 635:geo:-118.8946614,34.2176977
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251030T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251030T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251027T165940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T165940Z
UID:10000105-1761847200-1761859800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Los Padres - Easy/Spooky Intermediate
DESCRIPTION:3.5 miles\, 600′ gain\, Easy Intermediate\nEasy Option: 2.4 miles\, 285′ gain\, Fit Beginner \nHalloween Hike – costumes encouraged! \nTime for another haunted HP hike\, join us for a terrifying time on trail. \nWe enter the Los Padres trail through a spooky oak covered section\, then move through until we come to a dead end. We’ll turn right\, and continue climbing up. We’ll come to another junction\, where we’ll turn right onto the Los Robles trail. \nAfter 500 feet\, we’ll come to a split off to the right. We’ll take this split and continue along the Vista Loop until we come to a bench. Then we’ll start heading down\, and when we come to the “Giants Picnic Table”\, which I call that because its parts are super thick. \nWe’ll stop for a social event and share snacks and drinks for 30-60 minutes\, before continuing down and around for our return. \nEasy Option: In the reverse direction as the rest of the group\, go 350′ to the end of Los Padres Dr.\, left on S. Moorpark Rd. for 1000′. Enter the trail and follow it for about a mile. It will curve left and you will arrive at the social event. \nHike Distance: 3.5 miles\, easy option 2.4 miles.\nGain: 600′\, each option 285′.\nDistribution: Most of the incline well distributed in the first half.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Loop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nTrail Variations:\nSeveral extended inclines of 1000 steps.\nSeveral steep sections of 300 steps\, but no hands required.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as a link on this line. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed. \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. See “How hard is this hike” in the discussion section (LINK). \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nInteresting Notes\nThese are a couple plants you are likely to see on this hike: \nYucca\nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo or soap. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. \nPronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. Adam says they taste like radishes. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, or\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or\, scrape off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage. \nWild Cucumber\nToxic. Boil fruit in water to make spikes easy to remove. Inside is a natural luffa. Tubars (thickened part of a stem\, usually underground\, like the potato) can be crushed and thrown into water to immobilize fish. \nAlmost the entire plant is poisonous. The prickly “cucumbers” consist not of fleshy fruit\, but of two seed chambers containing lacy netting. \nDirections\nLos Padres Trailhead\n15 Los Padres Drive\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361 \nFrom I-101\nWest of CA-23\, I-101\, exit S. Moorpark Rd.\nSouth on Moorpark Rd. north for 1000 ft.\nLeft on Los Padres Dr.\nAfter 200 ft\, trailhead on the right.\nPark on the street. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/los-padres-easy-spooky-intermediate/
LOCATION:Los Padres Trailhead\, Los Padres Drive 15\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119685_image_highres_499466905-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1723976;-118.8768788
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Los Padres Trailhead Los Padres Drive 15 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Los Padres Drive 15:geo:-118.8768788,34.1723976
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251031T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251031T230000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251029T164700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251029T164700Z
UID:10000106-1761933600-1761951600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:West Hollywood Haloween Carnival Fun!
DESCRIPTION:Join Hiking Plus for a night of Halloween fun that you’ll be sure to remember. Come in costume or not\, this is a always a fun street fair and the costumes are always creative and incredible. \nWest Hollywood loves Halloween\, and the iconic West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is back for 2025! Recognized as one of the largest and most unique Halloween events in the world\, this one-of-a-kind street festival transforms Santa Monica Boulevard into a mile-long celebration of costumes\, creativity\, music and community. \nParking can be tough\, so carpooling is a good idea\, or plan to walk from a nearby lot or street. We will meet at Santa Monica and Fairfax to start\, but will update our location so we can all connect. I’ll also send my number to attendees so they can text me. There is a shuttle service\, the WeHo Halloween Ride\, a free special service running from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. along Santa Monica Boulevard between N. La Brea Avenue and N. Kings Road. Select vehicles will also connect to the Hollywood/Highland Metro Station from 6 p.m. to midnight. Full route maps and schedules will be available at wehopickup.com.. \nFor more information: West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval | Halloween Festival in WeHo \nAlso note the following rules and info: \n\nNo alcohol or public drinking will be allowed\nNo backpacks\, camera cases\, tote bags\, etc.\, will be permitted (clear plastic bags will be allowed)\nNo weapons\, fireworks or drones will be tolerated\nKids and pets are strongly discouraged\nCarnaval-goers remember: If You See Something\, Say Something\nStay up to speed with street closure information\, modifications to Cityline Local and Cityline Commuter service and parking information as it becomes available.
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/west-hollywood-haloween-carnival-fun/
LOCATION:West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval\, Santa Monica Boulevard 8905\, West Hollywood\, CA\, 90069\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/119701_image_highres_530993547.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.08495;-118.384554
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval Santa Monica Boulevard 8905 West Hollywood CA 90069 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Santa Monica Boulevard 8905:geo:-118.384554,34.08495
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251102T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251102T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251029T164702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251029T164702Z
UID:10000107-1762095600-1762108200@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Angel Vista - Pre-Super Moon Potluck hike (start 3 PM\, "fall back" an hour)
DESCRIPTION:It’s time\, “Fall back” an hour this Sunday.\nThe hike will start at 3:00 PM. \n3.0 miles\, 800′ gain\, easy-intermediate.\nMoonrise 3:11 pm\, Lunar illumination: 92.1%\, Sunset 5:00 pm\nPhoto by Helen \nLet’s enjoy the gorgeous sunset\, Super moon (slightly larger and brighter than usual)\, and fun loaded potluck picnic at the beautiful Angel Vista! \nThis is a potluck hike. Please bring food\, drinks to share.\nIf your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks\, etc.\, please bring them.\nYou may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any. \nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nThis hike is rated easy-intermediate because it is a continuous incline for 1.5 miles. This isn’t real steep\, but it is continuous\, and many beginner hikers have indicated this should be rated intermediate. \nThat said\, there is no reason a fit beginner cannot complete this hike. If needed\, just stop and rest along the way\, even if it’s every 50 steps. This is not a conditioning hike\, it is a social hike\, and you really can’t get lost. \nThe only junction is 200 yards before the top\, where we’ll turn right to complete the climb. \nAt the top\, there is a picnic table and 360 degree incredible views that are especially wonderful at night. We’ll have a snack-share social event at the top for 30-60 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share\, and utensils of your item requires it. \nThe top has been known to sometimes be very cool and windy. Please bring something to put on in case it is that way at the top. \nInteresting Notes \nTree Tobacco\nThe Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings\, bruises\, cuts\, wounds\, boils\, sores\, inflamed throat\, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine. \nIt contains anabasine\, a similar compound\, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke. \nElderberry\nThe blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine\, jam\, syrup\, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets. \nMost agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides\, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries. \nDirections:\nRosewood Trailhead\n398 Regal Oak Ct.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320 \nFrom the 101\nVentu Park exit\, South (toward ocean).\nRight on Lynn Road for 1000′.\nLeft on Regal Oak Ct. for 1/3 mi.\nPark on the street \nHike Distance: 3.0 miles\nGain: 800′\nDistribution: Most of the incline occurs in the first half\, which is a continuous climb. \nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street. \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/angel-vista-pre-super-moon-potluck-hike-start-3-pm-fall-back-an-hour/
LOCATION:Rosewood Trailhead\, Regal Oak Court 305\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/119010_image_highres_521048032-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1725018;-118.9146475
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Rosewood Trailhead Regal Oak Court 305 Thousand Oaks CA 91320 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Regal Oak Court 305:geo:-118.9146475,34.1725018
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251104T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251104T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251102T164551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251102T164551Z
UID:10000112-1762279200-1762291800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Happy Camp - Suitable for beginners
DESCRIPTION:Beginner\, 5 miles\, 500′ gain. Bug spray recommended.\nDo not park in the paved golf course lot\, it has a gate that closes at sunset. \nThis hike is entirely fire-road and is almost completely flat. Some of this trail is sandy\, so walking it at times can be more difficult. There are a lot of different interesting plants on this hike. \nFrom the trail head\, we walk along the fire road next to the golf course for 1.3 miles until making a left at a junction. \nPlease be advised that from that point on\, there is a no dogs allowed sign. At some point as we continue\, the ground will become very sandy. \nThe landscape will change from dry to green\, eventually coming to a spot where sometimes you can hear the water running along the left down in a canyon. We’ll stop there to share some Snacks and/or beverages to share and have a social event for 30-60 minutes\, before turning around to head back the way we came. Please bring snacks and/or beverages to share. \nInteresting Notes:\nYou will see several plants of note\, and if you are interested\, you can look them up before the hike. I’ll mention several\, and then fully describe a couple more: \nRussian Thistle\, Black Walnut\, Caterpillar Phacelia\, White Sage\, Yucca\, Bladder Pod. \nJimson Weed\nThe plant got its name from Jamestown\, because in 1676\, Jamestown\, VA soldiers ate this plant in their salad and became psychotic for 11 days. \nThe leaves and seeds are used to make medicine. Despite serious safety concerns\, jimson weed is used to treat asthma\, cough\, flu (influenza)\, swine flu\, and nerve diseases. Some people use it as a recreational drug to cause hallucinations and a heightened sense of well-being (euphoria). All parts of Datura plants contain dangerous levels of the tropane alkaloids atropine\, hyoscyamine\, and scopolamine\, which are classified as deliriants\, or anticholinergics. \nThe risk of fatal overdose is high among uninformed users\, and many hospitalizations occur amongst recreational users who ingest the plant for its psychoactive effects. As much as a 5:1 variation can be found between plants. It contains chemicals such as atropine\, hyoscyamine\, and scopolamine. \nIngesting only a few small seeds can result in serious poisoning and may be life-threatening. Ingesting even small amounts of the plant or seeds can result in confusion\, frightening hallucinations\, the inability to urinate or sweat\, overheating\, and a rapid heart rate. \nDepending on the amount ingested\, these troubling symptoms can last hours to many days\, and in some cases can lead to death. Touching he plant can cause dermatitis. \nCastor Bean\nOne of the most poisonous plants in the world. \nThe seeds contain ricin\, one of the most poisonous naturally occurring substances known. Perhaps just one milligram of ricin can kill an adult. Walter White made a poison cigarette by putting in ricin\, in the series Breaking Bad. \nThe symptoms of human poisoning begin within a few hours of ingestion. If death has not occurred in 3-5 days\, the victim usually recovers. The seed causes skin irritation at the contact point. It is said that just one seed can kill a child. \nIn 1978\, ricin was used to assassinate Georgi Markov in 1978\, a Bulgarian journalist who spoke out against the Bulgarian government. He was stabbed with the point of an umbrella while waiting at a bus stop near Waterloo Station in London. They found a perforated metallic pellet embedded in his leg that had presumably contained the ricin toxin. \nCastor beans are pressed to extract castor oil which is used for medicinal purposes. Ricin does not partition into the oil because it is water-soluble\, therefore\, castor oil does not contain ricin\, provided that no cross-contamination occurred during its production. \nUsed in bone marrow transplants\, cancer therapies\, AIDS treatment\, and can selectively destroy neurons by injecting ricin into nerves. \nDirections:\nHappy Camp\n15100 Happy Camp Canyon Rd.\nMoorpark\, CA 93021\n34.311460\,-118.866110 \nFrom the 118 and from the 101:\nHead to towards the intersection of I-118 and CA-23.\nExit 19A Princeton Ave.\, turn right (north) if coming from the east\, left coming from CA-23.\nPrinceton Ave. north for 0.2 miles.\nLeft on Campus Park Dr. for 0.4 miles and continue on Happy Camp Canyon Rd. for 0.7 miles.\nFollow signs to Rustic Canyon golf course.\nPark on the right in gravel lot\, just before golf course paved lot. Do not park in the paved golf course lot\, it has a gate that closes at sunset. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 5 miles\, 3 1/2 hours\nElevation Gain: 500′\nDifficulty: Fit Beginner\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: No. A sign half-way says no dogs. I’m not the dog enforcer\, so bring a dog at your own risk.\nRestrooms/Drinking Fountains: Yes\, inside the golf course clubhouse at the start\, but likely closed after dark.\nParking: Free in the gravel lot next to the paved golf course lot.\nTrail: Fire Road and some with powdered sand. \nWhat to Bring:\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK. They will get very dusty on this trail.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/happy-camp-suitable-for-beginners/
LOCATION:Happy Camp\, Happy Camp Canyon Road 15100\, Moorpark\, CA\, 93021\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119744_image_highres_500169401.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.3141843;-118.8698751
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Happy Camp Happy Camp Canyon Road 15100 Moorpark CA 93021 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Happy Camp Canyon Road 15100:geo:-118.8698751,34.3141843
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251106T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251106T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251102T164554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251102T164554Z
UID:10000113-1762452000-1762464600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wildwood Park - Las Flores potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:Fit Beginner – 4 miles\, 600′ gain\nThe gain is well distributed\, with half being on the return. \nWe start at the Las Flores trailhead where Las Flores dead-ends at Wildwood Park\, and head west. After 1/3 mile\, the trail becomes Wildwood Canyon Trail. We continue for another 2/3 mile and cross a bridge just past the Meadows Picnic area. \nWe’ll make a left\, continuing on Wildwood Canyon Trail\, past the Tee Pee Trail\, behind Paradise Falls\, left at the split\, and after about a mile\, Wildwood Canyon Picnic area will be on the left. There will be several tables. \nThis is a potluck picnic. Please bring some food and drinks to share.\nIf your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. You may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any.\nWe’ll share snacks and drinks for 60 – 90 minutes\, before heading back the way we came. \nThe Hike\nDistance: 4 miles\nGain: 600′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty: Fit Beginner\nShape: Out and Back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire Road\, Single-Track\, and Double-Track.\nDuration: 4.0 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.\nRestrooms: Yes\, at the picnic area.\nDrinking Fountains: Yes\, at tje picnic area.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots.\nFlashlight or headlamp (if it will be dark during any part of the event).\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share. \nHosting \nRoute: The host knows the route. Click the link to see the route. \nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed \nHike type: Social.\nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops:\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually a large arrow made of baking soda or sticks in the shape of an arrow. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation: Sometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections\nLas Flores Trailhead\n604 W Avenida De Las Flores\nThousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wildwood-park-las-flores-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:604 W Avenida De Las Flores\, West Avenida De Las Flores 604\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91360\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/27_image_highres_514499883-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2120414;-118.8915093
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=604 W Avenida De Las Flores West Avenida De Las Flores 604 Thousand Oaks CA 91360 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=West Avenida De Las Flores 604:geo:-118.8915093,34.2120414
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251105T171448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T171448Z
UID:10000121-1762700400-1762713000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Hawk Canyon lollipop - Potluck hike
DESCRIPTION:4.2 miles\, 700′ gain\, easy-intermediate.\nEasier option: 2.7 miles\, 500′ gain\, fit beginner. \nThis is a pot-luck hike. We’ll be stopping at the 3/4 point by a picnic table\, so please bring food and drink to share\, and any utensils your items might require. You may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any. \nWe start at Conejo Canyons Trail Head\, 2010 Conejo Center Dr\, Thousand Oaks\, CA 91320. \nWe’ll hike downhill from the trailhead for 0.6 miles. \nFor the regular route\, we’ll turn left and continue uphill for 0.6 miles on the Western Plateau trail and follow the fire road around to the right at the top\, then mostly flat for about a mile\, then dropping for another 1/2 mile. \nAt the bottom and when coming to a junction\, turn right onto Hawk Canyon. Our picnic spot is 1/4 mile up Hawk Canyon at the table under the trees. \nFor the easier option\, instead of turning left at the first junction\, we’ll turn right. After 0.6 miles\, the picnic area will be on the left. \nAfter the potluck\, we’ll continue up Hawk Canyon in our clockwise loop for 0.6 mile where the trail ends back at the Western Plateau trail. Take a left up the hill back to Conejo Center Dr. For those that came on the easier option\, it’s a return the way you came. \n** If you plan on leaving before the group\, please familiarize yourself with the planned route\, which can be accessed by clicking on the below link: \nThe Hike\nDistance: 4.2 miles / 2.7 miles\nGain: 700′ / 500′\nDistribution: Well distributed.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate / Fit Beginner\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road and single track.\nTrail Variations: Rolling stroll and ramp.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from the picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free \nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nInsect repellent (optional). \nHosting\nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \nWe won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. There is nothing wrong with stopping\, even if it means every 50 steps. \nStops\nThe host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. There may not always be a sweeper designated to be the last hiker. \nEach hiker is responsible for knowing their capability\, only attending events where they are able to sustain the described pace\, for keeping up with the group sufficiently enough to make the turns and not get left behind\, and for making sure the host is notified if they are going to split from the group. \nGroup separation\nSometimes hikers wish to move significantly ahead and not wait at designated stopping points. Please let the host know. They are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nDirections\nConejo Canyons Trail Head\n2010 Conejo Center Dr.\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91320\nUS-101\, exit Ventu Park Rd\, North.\nVentu Park Rd. North for 1 mile.\nRight on Rancho Conejo Blvd.\, 1.3 miles.\nLeft on Conejo Center Dr. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/hawk-canyon-lollipop-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:Conejo Canyons Trail Head\, Conejo Center Drive 2010\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91320\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119784_image_highres_512192552-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2038819;-118.9334178
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Conejo Canyons Trail Head Conejo Center Drive 2010 Thousand Oaks CA 91320 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Conejo Center Drive 2010:geo:-118.9334178,34.2038819
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251111T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251111T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251108T164851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251108T164851Z
UID:10000131-1762884000-1762896600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Chumash - Intermediate\, with Easy option
DESCRIPTION:4 miles\, 950′ gain\, Intermediate\nEasy Option: 1.6 miles\, 400′ gain\, Fit Beginner\nHardest option: 5 miles\, 1200′ gain\, Intermediate \nThe entire hike outbound is a steady incline. Nothing super steep\, just continuous and quite strenuous for many. There are virtually no junctions where one can get lost. \nThis is one of the more famous hikes in Simi Valley\, and for good reason. Much of the hike takes place along the edge of the mountain. The trail in spots is a bit rugged and rocky\, so a good tread on your shoes is recommended. \nIt is a part of the Chumash Natural Park that includes sandstone rock formations\, caves\, and beautiful vistas of Simi Valley. The land is owned by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and the Rancho Simi Recreation & Park District. It is maintained by the Rancho Simi Trailblazers and patrolled by the Volunteer Trail Safety Service. \nWe’ll all begin the climb together. Those doing the easier option will stop after 0.8 miles and wait for about 45 minutes until the rest of us return to this spot for our social event. While waiting\, they can continue to climb any portion they want and return to this spot\, or just take in the views. \nThe rest will continue for 1.3 miles until a flat rock. Those that want the hardest option\, continue for another 0.5 miles and 250′ gain to the end of the trail. Head back down the same way to the social event spot. \nAt the social event spot\, we’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Simi Valley and will share snacks and beverages. \nThere is really no way to get lost on this hike\, so everybody will move along at whatever pace they want. \nHike (click this link for a pic)\nDistance: 4.0 miles (1.5 mi for easy option\, 5.0 mi for hardest option)\nGain: 950′ (400′ for easy option\, 1200′ for hardest option)\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the first half.\nDifficulty: Intermediate (Fit Beginer for easy option\, Intermediate for hardest option)\nShape: Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nTrail Variations: The entire first half is incline. Some of the trail is rugged sandstone. Some of the trail is covered in large gravel.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street. \nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting\nRoute: The host knows the route. A pic of the route has been posted as part of this description.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nCalifornia Encelia\nAka\, California Bush Sunflower\, California Brittlebush\, Coast Sunflower\, El Dorado. \nCenter is brown. When the center is yellow\, it is Brittlebush\, from the brittleness of the stems. This is from the daisy family\, and it is typically used as an ornamental plant. \nMediterranean Mustard / Black Mustard\nMediterranean mustard seeds are yellow or white\, while Black mustard seeds are brown or black. The flowers look the same. \nFlowers\, leaves (mustard greens)\, and roots are edible. Can be used as a spice. Grind seeds and mix with water and vinegar to make prepared mustard. This is often a very abundant noxious weed (has been designated by an agricultural authority as one that is injurious to agricultural or horticultural crops\, natural habitats or ecosystems\, or humans or livestock.). It grows everywhere along the sides of the trail\, often having to be cut back during trail maintenance. \nDid you know that cabbage\, mustard greens\, collard greens\, kale\, broccoli\, cauliflower\, brussels sprouts\, and prepared mustard\, are all from different parts of the wild mustard plant? \nDirections\nChumash Trail\n3200 Flanagan Dr.\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.293497\, -118.671176 \nFrom CA-118\nI-118\, exit Yosemite.\nNorth on Yosemite for 1.3 miles.\nRight (east) on Flanagan Dr. for 08. miles.\nContinue until the street ends and park. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/chumash-intermediate-with-easy-option-2/
LOCATION:Chumash Park\, Flanagan Drive 3200\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/31_image_highres_498268541.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.2931709;-118.6710778
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Chumash Park Flanagan Drive 3200 Simi Valley CA 93063 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Flanagan Drive 3200:geo:-118.6710778,34.2931709
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251113T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251113T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251108T164851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251108T164851Z
UID:10000132-1763056800-1763069400@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wendy Lollipop
DESCRIPTION:4.6 miles\, 1000′ gain\, Easy Intermediate\nEasier Option – 2.7 miles\, 320′ gain \nMany have gotten lost relying on GPS. This is the Wendy Trailhead\, where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. \nHeading out\, we cross a creek\, turn right at the split\, then Turn right at the dead end. We regroup at the visitor center\, where there will be bathrooms. \nWe cross the wooden bridge and go left at the asphalt path. \nAfter 1/3 mile\, those that want the easier path turn left\, go 0.4 miles and turn right at the dead end. After 500′\, wait at the bench for the rest of the group (45 – 60 min). \nThe rest will continue down for 3/4 mile. There will be a porta-potty and picnic table. We’ll regroup\, then turn left and go about 1.3 miles and another 435′ of gain before turning left and heading up about 1/2 mile. \nAt the top\, we’ll head left for 500′ and arrive at a bench and overlook. We’ll share snacks and beverages for 30-60 minutes\, then head down 500′\, turn right at the junction\, and return to our cars. \nIf you wish to return before the social event completes\, study the map so you can find your way back. \nThe Route\nHike Distance: 4.6 mi / 2.7 mi\nGain: 1000′ / 320′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the middle of this hike.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate / Fit beginner\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: We pass a “no dogs” sign.\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street.\nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp. Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting Route: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. \nStops: The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually an arrow made of baking soda or sticks. \nGroup separation: Hikers moving significantly ahead or not waiting at designated stopping points are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you will see on this hike: \nHeartleaf Penstemon\nLeaves are shiny and saw toothed\, shaped like hearts\, 2 to 6 centimeters long and arranged oppositely on the branches. Stems are red. Small scarlet red tubular flowers. \nYucca\nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. \nRoot can be chopped up and used as soap. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or scrape skin off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage. \nDirections:\nWendy Trail Head\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.154507\, -118.950095 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west for 8 miles.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 North for 2 miles.\nExit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.\nLeft on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero. \nFrom US-101 north/west of Wendy:\nUS-101 south\, exit Wendy Dr.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wendy-lollipop/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, Potrero Road 4128\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119837_image_highres_498145736-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1545152;-118.9503149
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=4128 Potrero Rd Potrero Road 4128 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Potrero Road 4128:geo:-118.9503149,34.1545152
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251116T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251116T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251111T164601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T164601Z
UID:10000139-1763305200-1763317800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wendy Trailhead to Olympia Vista - Potluck Hike
DESCRIPTION:5.0 miles\, 640′ gain\, Easy Intermediate \nStarting at the Wendy trailhead we hike about 1/4 mile and take the left fork up the Windmill Trail\, a steep\, but short climb (0.1 miles\, 100 ft gain). At the top of this steep climb we’ll take the right fork down the Wendy-Satwiwa Connector into the grasslands for about another 1/4 mile where we will take the right fork onto the Satwiwa Loop Trail. We’ll hike for about 1/3 mile down to the Satwiwa Native American Indian Cultural Center. \nNext we’ll cross over the paved road and continue along the Rancho Overlook Trail for about 0.8 miles. At this point we’ll take the fork to the left going up a short incline (3/4 mile\, 200 ft elevation gain). Then we’ll take a right turn down to the picnic area. We should be able see the tables under the tree from here. \nOn the return trip we’ll go straight on the Palomino/ Rancho Overlook Trail for about 2 miles back to the Satwiwa Native American Indian Cultural Center. Just past the center\, we’ll take the first left turn (0.1 miles) up the hill along the Wendy Trail back to the cars (0.7 miles). \nThis is a potluck hike. Please bring food\, drinks to share.\nIf your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks\, etc.\, please bring them.\nYou may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nAt the turning point\, there is a picnic table in Olympia Farms. We’ll enjoy the great views and enjoy a potluck social event at the top for 60-90 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share\, and utensils of your item requires it. \nHike Distance: 5.0 miles\nGain: 640′\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Basically Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street.\nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nYour own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any for picnic. \nDirections:\nWendy Trail Head\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nWhere S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. 4128 Potrero Rd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA 91361 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west for 8 miles.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 North for 2 miles.\nExit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.\nLeft on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.\nFrom US-101 north/west of Wendy:\nUS-101 south\, exit Wendy Dr.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wendy-trailhead-to-olympia-vista-potluck-hike/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, Potrero Road 4128\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119877_image_highres_526333216-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1545152;-118.9503149
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=4128 Potrero Rd Potrero Road 4128 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Potrero Road 4128:geo:-118.9503149,34.1545152
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251123T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251123T210000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251112T171028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T171028Z
UID:10000141-1763906400-1763931600@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Pajama Hike & Potluck Party (Invitation Only) in Tarzana/Encino
DESCRIPTION:Let’s hike and party in style\, PJ’s!!\nPJ’s is optional\, but highly recommended.\nWe’ll enjoy hiking\, then go to our member’s home nearby and enjoy potluck party. \nThe Hike\nIt’ll be about one hour easy-intermediate hike in Tarzana.\nYou’ll receive the details if you are accepted. \nHow to Join\nPlease sign up on the waitlist. Due to the private and limited venue\, this event is only for limited number of frequent hikers. Sorry\, not for new members. You’ll receive the invitation if you are accepted. \nThe Potluck\nAfter the hike\, we’ll enjoy a potluck nearby. The details will be informed if you are accepted.\nPlease bring some food and drink to share. If your item requires it\, bring plates and utensils to share. Please leave your potluck items in your car.\nsocial event and shack share \nWhat to Bring\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/pajama-hike-potluck-party-invitation-only-in-tarzana-encino/
LOCATION:Tarzana Park\, Vanalden Avenue 5665\, Los Angeles\, CA\, 91356\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119889_image_highres_531237915.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1748804;-118.5508169
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Tarzana Park Vanalden Avenue 5665 Los Angeles CA 91356 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Vanalden Avenue 5665:geo:-118.5508169,34.1748804
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251125T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251125T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251122T170036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T170036Z
UID:10000153-1764093600-1764106200@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wendy Lollipop - includes easy option
DESCRIPTION:4.6 miles\, 1000′ gain\, Easy Intermediate\nEasier Option – 2.7 miles\, 320′ gain \nMany have gotten lost relying on GPS. This is the Wendy Trailhead\, where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. \nHeading out\, we cross a creek\, turn right at the split\, then Turn right at the dead end. We regroup at the visitor center\, where there will be bathrooms. \nWe cross the wooden bridge and go left at the asphalt path. \nAfter 1/3 mile\, those that want the easier path turn left\, go 0.4 miles and turn right at the dead end. After 500′\, wait at the bench for the rest of the group (45 – 60 min). \nThe rest will continue down for 3/4 mile. There will be a porta-potty and picnic table. We’ll regroup\, then turn left and go about 1.3 miles and another 435′ of gain before turning left and heading up about 1/2 mile. \nAt the top\, we’ll head left for 500′ and arrive at a bench and overlook. We’ll share snacks and beverages for 30-60 minutes\, then head down 500′\, turn right at the junction\, and return to our cars. \nIf you wish to return before the social event completes\, study the map so you can find your way back. \nThe Route\nHike Distance: 4.6 mi / 2.7 mi\nGain: 1000′ / 320′\nDistribution: Most of the incline is concentrated in the middle of this hike.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate / Fit beginner\nShape: Lollipop.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nTrail Type: Fire road\, double track\, single track.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: We pass a “no dogs” sign.\nRestrooms: Yes\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along street.\nWhat to bring: 1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp. Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nHosting Route: The host knows the route.\nNavigation: Host memory\, enhanced by GPS navigation as needed.\nHike type: Social. We won’t be hiking at a fast pace because this is a social hike\, not a conditioning hike. \nStops: The host may designate stopping points to let others catch up. This hike will include an extended stop for a snack and beverage share at the half way point. We will stop at junctions to make sure everybody makes any turns or chooses the correct direction at splits\, else something will be used to mark the direction\, usually an arrow made of baking soda or sticks. \nGroup separation: Hikers moving significantly ahead or not waiting at designated stopping points are on their own regarding route and navigation. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you will see on this hike: \nHeartleaf Penstemon\nLeaves are shiny and saw toothed\, shaped like hearts\, 2 to 6 centimeters long and arranged oppositely on the branches. Stems are red. Small scarlet red tubular flowers. \nYucca\nWhite flowers on stalk. Stalk is often missing\, leaving only the spires from which it grows. Stalks are very strong and light\, so they make good walking sticks. Needles on end of spires. Chopped up root can be uses as shampoo. Roasted root can be eaten like a potato. Illegal to remove live stick in CA. Pronounced with short u. Dried leaves make good tinder. \nRoot can be chopped up and used as soap. To eat root\, remove skin and core\, boil 15 minutes. Then fry or bake. Flowers are mildly sweet. The fruit is also edible\, but bitter if not ripe. To access fibers: Soak for a month in water\, lightly pound leaves with rock or club\, or scrape skin off skin. Roll between hands\, then pull and separate fibers. Weave into cordage. \nDirections:\nWendy Trail Head\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nCoordinates of trailhead: 34.154507\, -118.950095 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west for 8 miles.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 North for 2 miles.\nExit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.\nLeft on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero. \nFrom US-101 north/west of Wendy:\nUS-101 south\, exit Wendy Dr.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wendy-lollipop-includes-easy-option/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, Potrero Road 4128\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119837_image_highres_498145736-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1545152;-118.9503149
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=4128 Potrero Rd Potrero Road 4128 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Potrero Road 4128:geo:-118.9503149,34.1545152
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251130T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251130T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251125T170014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T170014Z
UID:10000155-1764514800-1764527400@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Wendy Trailhead to Olympia Vista - Potluck Hike
DESCRIPTION:5.0 miles\, 640′ gain\, Easy Intermediate \nStarting at the Wendy trailhead we hike about 1/4 mile and take the left fork up the Windmill Trail\, a steep\, but short climb (0.1 miles\, 100 ft gain). At the top of this steep climb we’ll take the right fork down the Wendy-Satwiwa Connector into the grasslands for about another 1/4 mile where we will take the right fork onto the Satwiwa Loop Trail. We’ll hike for about 1/3 mile down to the Satwiwa Native American Indian Cultural Center. \nNext we’ll cross over the paved road and continue along the Rancho Overlook Trail for about 0.8 miles. At this point we’ll take the fork to the left going up a short incline (3/4 mile\, 200 ft elevation gain). Then we’ll take a right turn down to the picnic area. We should be able see the tables under the tree from here. \nOn the return trip we’ll go straight on the Palomino/ Rancho Overlook Trail for about 2 miles back to the Satwiwa Native American Indian Cultural Center. Just past the center\, we’ll take the first left turn (0.1 miles) up the hill along the Wendy Trail back to the cars (0.7 miles). \nThis is a potluck hike. Please bring food\, drinks to share.\nIf your item requires utensils/plates/toothpicks\, etc.\, please bring them.\nYou may wish to bring your own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share \nAt the turning point\, there is a picnic table in Olympia Farms. We’ll enjoy the great views and enjoy a potluck social event at the top for 60-90 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share\, and utensils of your item requires it. \nHike Distance: 5.0 miles\nGain: 640′\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate.\nShape: Basically Out and back.\nPace: approx. 2.0 mph.\nDuration: 3.5 hours\nDogs: Dogs must be kept on leash and away from picnic table.\nRestrooms: No\nDrinking Fountains: No.\nParking: Free along the street.\nWhat to bring\n1 liter of water for every 3 miles.\nHiking shoes/boots. Not required\, but recommended.\nFlashlight or headlamp.\nSunscreen and/or hat as needed.\nYour own cup\, plate\, and utensils in case there aren’t any for picnic. \nDirections:\nWendy Trail Head\n4128 Potrero Rd\nThousand Oaks\, CA 91361\nWhere S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd. 4128 Potrero Rd\, Thousand Oaks\, CA 91361 \nFrom CA-118:\nCA-118 west for 8 miles.\nCA-23 south for 7.4 miles.\nUS-101 North for 2 miles.\nExit 45 Lynn Rd. and south/west for 2.5 miles.\nLeft on S. Wendy Dr. for 0.6 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.\nFrom US-101 north/west of Wendy:\nUS-101 south\, exit Wendy Dr.\nSouth on Wendy Dr. for 3 miles until it dead ends at Potrero Rd.\nPark on Potrero.
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/wendy-trailhead-to-olympia-vista-potluck-hike-2/
LOCATION:4128 Potrero Rd\, Potrero Road 4128\, Thousand Oaks\, CA\, 91361\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/119877_image_highres_526333216-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.1545152;-118.9503149
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=4128 Potrero Rd Potrero Road 4128 Thousand Oaks CA 91361 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Potrero Road 4128:geo:-118.9503149,34.1545152
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251202T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251202T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251127T164644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251127T164644Z
UID:10000160-1764698400-1764711000@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Mt. McCoy
DESCRIPTION:Easy Intermediate\, 3 miles\, 600′ gain\nEasier Option: 2.4 mi\, 530′ gain. 5 Washburn St\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nWe’ll meet in the parking lot at the northeast corner of Madera and Royal\, just south of the Donut Delite\, on the east side of the Clinicas office. We’ll walk from there to the trailhead at 2 Washburn St. where it meets Los Amigos Ave. \nThe Hike\nEasy end of the Intermediate Spectrum\, due to the 1 mile continuous incline that can get exhausting. A fit beginner can easily complete it. \nWe cross Madera and continue through the neighborhood for about 1/4 mi\, to the intersection of Washburn St. and Los Amigos Ave. This is also the starting point for the easier option. \nWe enter a path behind the houses and proceed for 250′ to the entrance. So far\, there will have been very little elevation gain. \nWe’ll enter a series of switchbacks (zig-zag trail) for 1.2 miles to a large cross at the top. This is a steady climb across the face of the hill\, always in full view of the neighborhood below. Beginners may find this climb difficult to continue at a fast pace. There is nothing wrong with slowing down while faster hikers move ahead\, or resting for a minute several times during this climb. \nIt may seem easy to get lost because there are many different cross-paths up the face of this hill\, but they all lead to the same place. Generally\, whenever there is a choice of “left or right”\, we take the easier and more worn path. If you happen to find yourself alone and take a wrong turn (aka steep cut)\, all paths lead up. \nAt the top by the cross or one of the nearby benches\, we’ll enjoy the gorgeous 360 degree views and share beverages and/or snacks. \nInteresting Notes\nHere are a couple plants you are sure to see on this hike: \nBlack Sage\nMultiple brown buttons going up the top of the stalk\, that may have white flowers. Green leaves. Purple or white flowers that are dark brown as they dry on the plant. Squish the leaves and smell. \nA rare and sought after Black sage honey is also made from the honey of bees that pollinate the Black sage plant. Black sage is utilized in the culinary world as an aromatic and flavorful herb. It can be used in recipes wherever traditional sage is called for\, however keep in mind that foraged Black sage has a much stronger flavor than that of traditional store bought sage. \nIts flavor goes well with winter squashes\, brown butter\, poultry\, venison\, pears\, cheese\, potatoes and other herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Use fresh in a variety of different preparations or leaves. Can be dried and stored for future use as a dried herb. Black sage was used traditionally by Native Americans known as the Chumash people to form an herbal soak for the bath to be used in the treatment of bodily pain\, specifically for the feet and lower legs. \nPurple Sage\nGrey-green leaves. Aromatic when crushed. Purple flowers. Aka\, Tobacco Sage\, with mild hallucinogenic properties when smoked. Can be used as a spice or made into a tea. Tea has medicinal affects: Antiviral\, gargle for sore throats\, reduce hay fever symptoms and other drying actions. \nDistance: 3 miles (round trip)\nElevation Gain: 700′\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate\nDuration: 3 1/2 hours\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: Yes – at nearby places of business\nDrinking Fountains: Yes – at nearby places of business\nParking: Free\nTrail: Mostly single-track\, excellent condition\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK. \nWhat to Bring\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. \nDirections\nFor those doing the regular route:\n1424 Madera Rd\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nFor those doing the easier option:\nPark on the street near 5 Washburn St\, Simi Valley\, CA 93065 \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/mt-mccoy-2/
LOCATION:Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera\, Madera Road 1424\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93065\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/118953_image_highres_530405899.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.264806;-118.7958573
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc – Madera Madera Road 1424 Simi Valley CA 93065 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Madera Road 1424:geo:-118.7958573,34.264806
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251204T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251204T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T132924
CREATED:20251127T164644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251127T164644Z
UID:10000161-1764871200-1764883800@dev.hikingwithdean.com
SUMMARY:Chivo Tar Pits lollipop - Easy Intermediate with beginner option
DESCRIPTION:4.75 miles\, 700′ gain\, easy-intermediate\nOption for 3 miles\, 300′ gain\, easy. \nThis is a link to the route: LINK \nWe start with a 1/4 mile walk from where we park along Cottonwood Dr\, to the trail head. There we make a left and take a relatively flat section and hike for about 3/4 mile. We’ll come to the same tar pits as the Tapo Canyon tar pit hike\, and then continue for another 300 feet to a fire road. \nWe’ll turn left and after about 300′\, we arrive at a trail junction\, which is our social event area. \nEasier Option: Those taking the easier option will wait there for 30-45 minutes for the rest to arrive back. They also have the option to turn left and start walking up the hill\, turning around to return at any time\, or turning back when they run into the fastest people taking the regular route making their way back down. \nRegular Option: Those taking the regular route will make a gradual climb for 1 mile and about 450′ of incline. At the top\, continue straight and around to the left\, down for 3/4 mile\, arriving back at the social event area for 30-60 minutes. \nPlease bring food and drink to share. \nNext we’ll turn back and head the way we came down a mostly flat section for about a mile until we arrive back at the trail head. Then another 1/4 mile walk along Cottonwood Drive back to our cars. \nThere is a map of the route posted with this event. \nDirections:\n5079 Westwood St.\nSimi Valley\, CA 93063\nPark on the street. \nThe Hike:\nDistance: 4.75 miles\, option for 3 miles.\nElevation Gain: 700′\, option for 300′.\nDifficulty: Easy Intermediate with beginner option.\nPace: 2.0 mph\nDogs: Yes.\nRestrooms: No.\nDrinking Fountains: No\nParking: Free\, along the neighborhood streets.\nTrail: Single Track\, Double Track\, and fire road.\nPurpose: Social \nWhat to Bring:\n1-2 liters of water.\nSnacks and/or beverages to share\nHiking shoes preferred\, but athletic shoes will be OK.\nFlashlight or headlamp. The last 30 minutes may get dark. \nFAQ\nHiking Plus Page Links\nDisclaimer / Release of Liability
URL:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/event/chivo-tar-pits-lollipop-easy-intermediate-with-beginner-option/
LOCATION:5079 Westwood St\, Westwood Street 5079\, Simi Valley\, CA\, 93063\, United States
CATEGORIES:Hiking Plus
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dev.hikingwithdean.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/120038_image_highres_498350705-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hiking Plus":MAILTO:meetup-group-FRgxgAAf-announce@messages.meetup.com
GEO:34.3023867;-118.6942847
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=5079 Westwood St Westwood Street 5079 Simi Valley CA 93063 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Westwood Street 5079:geo:-118.6942847,34.3023867
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR