tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46854593055915319902024-03-18T20:21:39.638-07:00RexHikesWild, Amazing and Unknown Hikes in the Los Angeles Area for the Monkey in all of us.
Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-80887200198398894082022-06-20T21:41:00.001-07:002022-06-20T21:41:12.635-07:00RexHikes Adventure Videos<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> climbing John Henge Rocks (3 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/dHV9cp10ACI">https://youtu.be/dHV9cp10ACI</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">exploring cracked-up volcanic TriPeaks
(3 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/607Iv3UaQo0">https://youtu.be/607Iv3UaQo0</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Climbing the Cliffs of Nyoko (3 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/vNVpHC9G7wE">https://youtu.be/vNVpHC9G7wE</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Topanga's Time Tunnel (3 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/EJDFBApKbNc">https://youtu.be/EJDFBApKbNc</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">Rocky
Peak waterfalls and hummingbird trail tunnel cave (3.5 min)</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/ZqFLsx59Lqw"><span style="background: transparent;">https://youtu.be/ZqFLsx59Lqw</span></a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Garden of the Gods (4 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/9FvPpbFl-sg">https://youtu.be/9FvPpbFl-sg</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Cave of Munits & Castle Peak (3
min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/SN6zgy2iOPc">https://youtu.be/SN6zgy2iOPc</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">Cooper-Buckhorn
fall</span><b><span style="background: transparent;">s (10
sec)</span></b><span style="background: transparent;"><br /></span><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/1443226944/videos/10206569923673819/"><span style="background: transparent;">https://www.facebook.com/1443226944/videos/10206569923673819/</span></a></u></span></span><span style="background: transparent;">
</span>
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Vazquez Rocks Lunatic Ledge (1.5 min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/yRxAY2t8HDk">https://youtu.be/yRxAY2t8HDk</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Ledge of Doom at Sage ranch park (2
min)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://youtu.be/Pty-O7BQ-CU">https://youtu.be/Pty-O7BQ-CU</a></u></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-3846857790694358432016-01-26T22:45:00.003-08:002019-02-12T22:17:35.356-08:00Top of Corral Canyon rocks and Caves<b>FOUR AREAS OF ROCKS TO CLIMB AND PLAY ON</b><br />
<br />
--including a "Medicine Circle" or Labyrinth of small rocks to make you dizzy!<br />
<br />
--plus the famous stoner cave where Jim Morrison allegedly hung out.<br />
<br />
--Trails are wide and easy; rock "scrambling" is optional<br />
<br />
THERE ARE LOTS OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR OFF-TRAIL EXPLORATION TO ROCKS WE HAVE NOT PLAYED AT YET<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
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<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/a/e/a/600_446286890.jpeg" /><br />
<br />
Elevation Gain: 600 feet<br />
Distance: around 4 miles<br />
Parking: free<br />
Dogs: no, because we are in a State Park<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/0/6/9/600_434464201.jpeg" /><br />
GPS for parking lot: N 34.08217 W 118.75847<br />
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<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/a/7/2/600_266095922.jpeg" /><br />
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<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/d/8/600_266096792.jpeg" /><br />
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<br />
THE ELEPHANT ROCK....<br />
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<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/2/9/c/600_266098012.jpeg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
THE STONER CAVE, WHERE JIM MORRISON MAY HAVE HUNG OUT....<br />
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<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/1/6/600_403557622.jpeg" /><br />
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<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/3/4/600_403557652.jpeg" /><br />
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AS USUAL: Bring 3 quarts of water, a hat, sunscreen, munchies, Gern Blanston repellent<br />
----------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
Check out my blogs at <a href="http://rare-earth-news.blogspot.com/">http://rare-earth-news.blogspot.com</a> , <a href="http://lameetuphikes.com/">http://lameetuphikes.com</a><br />
<br />
or follow me on twitter: @rexfrankelRex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-65907004548831732892016-01-01T14:35:00.004-08:002019-02-12T22:24:16.575-08:00Waterfall Wonderland below Sandstone Peak<b></b><br />
a downhill then uphill hike on the way back, 6 miles total with another 1 mile optional <br />
WHERE: Circle X ranch, in the western Santa Monica Mountains<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
TRAILS MAP: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/upload/CircleX_1_fin.pdf">https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/upload/CircleX_1_fin.pdf</a><br />
<br />
DRIVING TIME: Typically it takes an hour and a half from downtown or west L.A to get here.<br />
<br />
<br />
PARK HERE: <br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/a/5/8/600_445531320.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
HIKE HERE: <br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/3/c/a/highres_20481450.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
above: THE WEEPING HILLSIDE <br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/9/9/f/highres_20482943.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
(above: THE GROTTO)<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/2/c/0/event_22457088.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
(ABOVE: THE FALLS BELOW THE GROTTO)<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/c/7/e/event_93319582.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
(THE WEIRD TWISTED OAK TREE EVEN FARTHER BELOW THE GROTTO)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/9/6/1/highres_20482881.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
ABOVE: CUTE WILDLIFE <br />
<br />
THE PLAN:<br />
We will first past a series of cascading mini falls. Then we will
connect with the Grotto trail and turn left, and cross a much bigger
waterfall. Soon, to our left,we will see falls #2 and 3. Then when we
hit the canyon bottom and an old campground, we are really close to the
grotto. WE WILL MUNCH OUR LUNCH ON THE ROCKS.<br />
The Grotto is really cool because this is a 20 foot underground
waterfall, located in a room under a giant boulder in the canyon. On the
way we may pass nice smelling wildflowers, if the lilac flowers are
blooming yet.<br />
<br />
THE OPTIONAL PART:<br />
I WILL TAKE ADVENTURERS DOWN THE CANYON FARTHER, ADDING ANOTHER MILE
TO THE HIKE. THERE ARE MORE WATERFALLS ALONG THE WAY. THIS PART OF THE
HIKE IS CLIMBING ON ROCKS, WHICH IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. THERE IS A RISK OF
THE USUAL SLIPS AND FALLS AND POISON OAK. SO IF YOU CHOOSE NOT TO DO
THIS, WAIT AT THE LUNCH SPOT FOR ABOUT AN HOUR WHILE I LEAD THIS PART OF
THE HIKE. THE SCENERY IS AMAZING WHETHER YOU COME WITH ME OR LOUNGE
AROUND AT THE LUNCH SPOT. IF YOU WISH TO TURN BACK, THE TRAIL IS WELL
MARKED WITH SIGNS WHICH I WILL POINT OUT ON THE WAY DOWN. <br />
<br />
----------------------------- <br />
HOW LONG IS THE HIKE: About 4 miles
each way. This is an upside down hike, we go down past 4 waterfalls,
then come back up. The last tenth of a mile of the hike requires some
climbing over boulders to get to the last waterfall (the grotto--which
is the underground waterfall in the picture above)<br />
ELEVATION LOSS AND GAIN: We will descend 800 feet to the grotto in
around 4 miles. Then take the elevator back to the top. Only the last
tenth of a mile at the last waterfall requires some climbing over large
bouders.<br />
WEATHER: expected to be sunny<br />
WHERE TO PARK?: There are 4 dirt parking lots at Circle X ranch. <b>However, we will meet at the Sandstone Peak trailhead (see map)</b><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/2/0/8/event_20449672.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
PLEASE PRINT OUT THIS PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE MAP SHOWING WHERE TO PARK:<br />
<a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/2/0/8/highres_20449672.jpeg">http://photos1.meetup...</a><br />
<br />
SPECIAL PARKING RULES DICTATED BY THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE: <br />
BECAUSE THIS HIKE GETS REALLY POPULAR IN WATERFALL SEASON, WE ARE
LIMITED TO 50 HIKERS MAXIMUM, AND CAR-POOLING IS MANDATORY--THE RANGERS
GET A BIT CRANKY IF WE PACK THEIR PARKING LOT. WE ARE LIMITED TO 12
CARS.<br />
CARPOOLING IS MANDATORY--A GOOD SPOT TO MEET FOR CARPOOLING IS ON PCH
ACROSS FROM NEPTUNE'S NET (AT YERBA BUEBA ROAD). THEN DRIVE UP THE HILL
5 MILES TO THE PARKING LOT. Park in the lot with the sign saying
"Sandstone Peak trailhead". <br />
IF SANDSTONE PEAK LOT IS FULL, PLEASE DRIVE EAST 1/2 MILE TO THE TWO
DIRT LOTS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN WALK BACK TO OUR MEETUP
SPOT <br />
REMEMBER, THE DRIVING TIME: Typically it takes an hour and a half from downtown or west L.A to get here.<br />
<br />
ALSO, HERE'S A PRINTABLE GOOGLE MAP: click on link
<a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/a/9/highres_20469641.jpeg">http://photos1.meetup...</a><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/5/a/9/600_20469641.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<b>(NOTE: THE BLUE DOTS FOLLOW THE ROUTE WITH THE LEAST HAIRPIN TURNS--FOR THOSE THAT GET DIZZY EASILY)</b><br />
--BRING A HAT!!!! BRING 2 OR 3 QUARTS OF WATER PER PERSON. STAY
HYDRATED!. Also, you might get wet crossing the stream. We're in no
rush, so let's be careful! <br />
BRING: A HAT, SUNSCREEN, COMFORTABLE SHOES WHICH YOU DON'T MIND GETTING WET, AND FOOD---THIS IS NOT TOO HARD OF A HIKE!<br />
-----------------------<br />
<br />
<b>PHOTOS OF THE HIKE AFTER THE LAST WEEK LONG STORM: </b>
FROM DECEMBER 27, 2010: <a href="http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=1200522">http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=1200522</a><br />
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/Rare.Earth.fotos/2908GrottoCircleXRanchWesternSantaMonicaMountains">http://picasaweb.goog...</a><br />
<br />
-----------------------<br />
HOW TO GET THERE:<br />
FROM THE WESTSIDE, take the 10 freeway to Pacific Coast Highway, go
west past Malibu to Yerba Buena Road. Turn right, go up the hill 5 miles
to the Circle X ranch ranger station, and about a half mile past that
is the Sandstone Peak trailhead.<br />
IF YOU CHOOSE TO TAKE THE 101 FREEWAY: take the 101 Freeway west to
Kanan Dume Road in the city of Agoura Hills. Take it to the south,
towards the beach. In about 5 miles, you will come to Mulholland
Highway, Turn right, going west. In about a mile, the road forks. Take
the left fork onto Encinal Canyon Road. Follow this for about 2 miles.
It will run into Decker road (also called Lechuza or Highway 23). Turn
Right. This will lead very shortly again to Mulholland. Turn left
(west). A short distance ahead is an abrupt right turn called Little
Sycamore Rd. (The name soon changes to Yerba Buena Road--don't worry !).
Take this twisty road for another 2 miles and you will see the parking
area for the Mishe Mokwa trail, go another half a mile and park at the
Sandstone Peak trailhead --YES--PARK THERE!. (If you continue west on
this road for another 1/2 mile, you will see the ranger station--we are
not starting from here, however, there are restrooms and drinking water
here)Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-74996967527104140282015-12-02T20:02:00.003-08:002015-12-11T22:32:21.277-08:00The Rocky Staircase to the Top of TopangaA 9 mile Loop hike from Stunt Road up the rocky ridge to Topanga Lookout, with amazing climbable rock formations all the way up, (takes 3 hours) ...<br /><a name='more'></a><br />then we collapse and eat snacks on the concrete pad up there with great views of the city and the ocean, then head downhill via the Stunt High Trail past Cold Creek back to our cars.<br /><br />NOTE: you will use your hands a lot, along with your feet, on this climb. That's why I'm the monkey man..... <br /> <br />----------------<br /><br /><br />
DISTANCE: 9 miles, 5 HOURS. Elevation gain is 1250 feet from Stunt Road to Topanga Lookout in mostly full sun. <br />
<br />
<br />
Weather:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/weekend/USCA0149">http://www.weather.com/weather/weekend/USCA0149</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
DIFFICULTY: The first three hours is a hard workout, but is doable by
any able hiker. We will sometimes need to use our hands as we climb
over rocks on the trail to Topanga Lookout. After lunch, the trail is
much easier (more civilized).<br />
<br />
PLEASE: NO DOGS, NOT EVEN ON-LEASH<br />
<br />
PHOTOS: <a href="http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=4659602">http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=4659602</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/b/2/2/event_75592002.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
(BELOW: optional climb up this rock--the sane trail goes around it--this rock is suitable for thrillseekers only!)<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/e/0/0/event_276956832.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(NOTE: sofas are not included)</div>
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/c/0/8/event_75592232.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Topanga Lookout)</div>
<br />
------------------------------<br />
DIRECTIONS TO PARKING AREA:<br />
Take the 101 freeway to the Woodland Hills area, and take the offramp to the SOUTHBOUND Topanga canyon Blvd.<br />
In a mile, turn right onto Mulholland Drive. In a mile or so, you
turn left onto Mulholland Highway. If you pass a Gelson's market
shopping center, you took the correct turn.<br />
Follow Mulholland Highway several more miles over the summit, then in
a little more than a mile there is a hard right turn. Just before this
turn is Stunt Road. Turn left onto Stunt road and go about 1 miles. PARK
NEAR TRAIL CROSSING SIGN.<br />
<br />
GOOGLE DIRECTIONS: <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Culver+City,+CA&daddr=1667+Stunt+Rd,+Calabasas,+CA&hl=en&sll=37.269174,-119.306607&sspn=11.21887,19.753418&geocode=FQIfBwIdzmnx-Cmdc3fbHrrCgDH-WetL0emFMQ%3BFUdACAIdl5Dt-Ck5CwC_jJ_CgDGydxCgrNQzYQ&t=m&mra=ls&z=12">https://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Culver+City,+CA&daddr=1667+Stunt+Rd,+Calabasas,+CA&hl=en&sll=37.269174,-119.306607&sspn=11.21887,19.753418&geocode=FQIfBwIdzmnx-Cmdc3fbHrrCgDH-WetL0emFMQ%3BFUdACAIdl5Dt-Ck5CwC_jJ_CgDGydxCgrNQzYQ&t=m&mra=ls&z=12</a><br />
<br />
<br />
BELOW: LOCATION OF PARKING <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/1/8/600_276962072.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
MAP TO THE PARKING--MEETUP SPOT:<br />
<a href="http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.09507,-118.64852&z=15&t=M&marker0=34.09507%2C-118.64852%2C4.4%20km%20W%20of%20Topanga%20CA">http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.09507,-118.64852&z=15&t=M&marker0=34.09507%2C-118.64852%2C4.4%20km%20W%20of%20Topanga%20CA</a><br />
<br />
<br />
PRINTABLE TRAIL MAPS:<br />
<a href="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/a/3/6/highres_75595862.jpeg">http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/a/3/6/highres_75595862.jpeg</a><br />
<a href="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/c/9/4/highres_76571412.jpeg">http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/c/9/4/highres_76571412.jpeg</a><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/9/f/8/event_75583512.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-75099978943719602582015-11-28T22:58:00.000-08:002015-12-02T20:00:01.746-08:00Santa Susana Pass Park and Mt Rexmore Loop, maybe a waterfall<b>Lots of Rocks and 2 Hills to Climb</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/b/6/f/600_444507503.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>DISTANCE: 6 miles or so</b><br />
PHOTOS: <a href="http://mtrexmore.blogspot.com/">http://mtrexmore.blogspot.com/</a><br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
DIFFICULTY: medium; included rock scrambling and climbing a rocky hillside<br />
<br />
LOCATION: go WEST OF Topanga CANYON on Lassen Street for 1 mile
until it ends at Oakwood Cemetery and turn left on Andora Avenue. To the
left of the cemetery entrance is the trailhead. We then go to the
labyrinth rock, climb around a bit, then climb the waterfall trail up to
Lilac lane, then climb up to Mt Rexmore/the north 2 peaks of Chatsworth
Peak (900 feet elevation gain from where we park), then drop down (600
feet) to Lilac Lane at Santa Susana Pass Road, and walk south up Lilac
lane back to the Stagecoach trail and go down to the starting spot.<br />
<br />
Liability Waiver must be signed by all participants who go on
this hike, as Mt. Rexmore is private property which we use with
permission<br />
(BELOW: heart rock hole in Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park)<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/5/5/a/event_260730042.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
(BELOW: labyrinth-picnic rock at Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park)<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjuCpaWlpHVKB5HpOg7tPjfyZWb2HEfBj37tI-x_YOPUbJ00rYHHIGDXgP2mnbUTsVNyY8n0-WYxKdYlYPpg6gR5nwZzhgoCaDqCFD9JLtX7Z-f9jj5jF1oLuUZVivsEwmMLhstwO3w/s1600/SSPSHP+labyrinth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjuCpaWlpHVKB5HpOg7tPjfyZWb2HEfBj37tI-x_YOPUbJ00rYHHIGDXgP2mnbUTsVNyY8n0-WYxKdYlYPpg6gR5nwZzhgoCaDqCFD9JLtX7Z-f9jj5jF1oLuUZVivsEwmMLhstwO3w/s400/SSPSHP+labyrinth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/5/3/2/600_427130482.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-12232594870820135802015-08-26T22:53:00.002-07:002015-08-30T10:41:46.120-07:00DEVIL'S PUNCHBOWL – 4 to 6 HOURS OF CAVES, ARCHES AND WATERFALLS-2 hikesThis Hike comes in 2 parts. Each takes about three hours<br />
<br />
<b>NOT THE USUAL DEVIL'S PUNCHBOWL HIKE (the 1-mile loop everyone else does....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.) </b><br />
<b></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b>
<b>instead: WE'RE DOING 6 HOURS OF ROCKS, CAVES, ARCHES AND
WATERFALLS EXPLORATION. The hike route itself is not off-trail or
exploratory. It's just not an any official maps. </b><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4685459305591531990" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<b><br /></b>
<img alt="" src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/3/d/600_436272861.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<b>OUR HIKE ROUTE:</b><br />
PART 1 OF HIKE: We will go straight south of
the parking lot and climb down into Punchbowl canyon. If you arrive
late, take the trail on the map below to the 4th stone bench and on the
left (east) of the bench is a trail that drops down about 50 feet to a
low rocky ridge. DO NOT CONTINUE ON THE WIDER TRAIL WHICH HAS SOME
WOODEN STAIRS JUST PAST THE BENCH. We will have lunch on the ridge, then
continue south to the rocks at the south end of this canyon (in photo
above), then loop back via the creek and climb down 6 waterfalls (4 to 6
feet high). Then we will return by going up the low rocky ridge to the
nature center. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/e/a/highres_436143050.jpeg">http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/e/a/highres_436143050.jpeg</a> <br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/1/f/600_436143103.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
PART 2 OF HIKE: Then we will head back to
the nature center and go north to Sandrock canyon to explore the arches
and caves <br />
Our hike will take us to arches #6 to 12 on this photo <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/e/8/600_436683304.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/1/f/highres_436683359.jpeg">http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/1/f/highres_436683359.jpeg</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/0/1/600_436683329.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<b>Difficulty: MODERATE, but nothing too crazy. BRING HIKING SHOES THAT YOU CAN GET WET!!!!</b> (although I just did the falls myself and did not get wet.) <br />
DISTANCE: only 5 miles or so, cause climbing up and around rocks and waterfalls is SLOW!<br />
-------------------------------------------------<br />
GEOLOGY: <a class="linkified" href="http://devils-punchbowl.com/pages/nhistory/geology/geology.pdf">http://devils-punchbowl.com/pages/nhistory/geology/geology.pdf</a> <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/a/0/7/600_436686663.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
CURRENT WILDFLOWER PHOTOS: <br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206748128368825.1073741875.1443226944&type=1&l=2c0495d396">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206748128368825.1073741875.1443226944&type=1&l=2c0495d396</a><br />
<br />
PICTURES FROM OUR LAST HIKE HERE:<br />
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=26035852">http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=26035852</a><br />
and the previous one.... <br />
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=25951461">http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=25951461</a><br />
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=25951461">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206456020466310.1073741867.1443226944&type=1&l=d528972b30</a> <br />
<br />
Elevation is around 4600 feet <br />
<br />
WEATHER: <a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/USCA0847:1:US">http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/USCA0847:1:US</a><br />
------------------------------------------------- <br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/2/b/1/600_436109361.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
BELOW: the lower falls <br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/4/f/4/600_436118132.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/3/9/a/600_436085018.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/4/7/1/600_436014385.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/2/f/5/600_436014005.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/1/2/600_434686354.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />
<br />
<br />
<br />
PRINTABLE TRAIL MAP OF OUR HIKE ROUTES: (CLICK ON LINK) <br />
<a href="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/1/2/highres_436142834.jpeg">http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/1/2/highres_436142834.jpeg</a> <br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/1/2/highres_436142834.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------- <br />
HANDY GOOGLE MAP WITH DIRECTIONS: <br />
DRIVE IS ABOUT 80 MILES NORTH OF DOWNTOWN L.A.. No obnoxious twisty roads! <br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Culver+City,+CA/Devil%27s+Punchbowl+Natural+Area,+28000+Devils+Punchbowl+Rd,+Pearblossom,+CA+93553/@34.2894979,-118.1701219,9z/data=%214m14%214m13%211m5%211m1%211s0x80c2ba1edb77739d:0x3185e9d14beb59fe%212m2%211d-118.3964665%212d34.0211224%211m5%211m1%211s0x80c31c62205f8af7:0x1ce1004f77c8390f%212m2%211d-117.85292%212d34.413737%213e0">https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Culver+City,+CA/Devil%27s+Punchbowl+Natural+Area,+28000+Devils+Punchbowl+Rd,+Pearblossom,+CA+93553/@34.2894979,-118.1701219,9z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x80c2ba1edb77739d:0x3185e9d14beb59fe!2m2!1d-118.3964665!2d34.0211224!1m5!1m1!1s0x80c31c62205f8af7:0x1ce1004f77c8390f!2m2!1d-117.85292!2d34.413737!3e0</a>Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-17385816741964859762015-08-26T22:47:00.001-07:002015-09-03T12:12:05.983-07:00Vasquez Rocks Punchbowls, Looney Cliffclimbing and Cave Exploration<b>THIS IS NOT THE USUAL VASQUEZ ROCKS HIKE--PART OF THE ROUTE IS <u>NOT</u> FOR
THOSE AFRAID OF HEIGHTS <br /> </b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
OK....So every time I go to Vasquez Rocks I see these amazing cliffs
and spires with holes in them and birds flying in and out of them, and I
rarely see anyone get on the top. So, I finally found the way up. The
view is really amazing. <br />
<br />
EXCEPT....that I'm not going to the cliffs the usual way. I and
anyone that wants to come with me will be taking a diagonal sloped shelf
from the creek-bed up to the cliffs. It is challenging and scary looking
in one spot. Luckily, there is another way to get to the cliffs for
those that come on this hike, and I will point it out. The bold and the
not so bold will meet at the top of these cliffs. These cliffs are the
last place on our tour of Vasquez park. <br />
<br />
Before that we will hit some of the usual fun rock climbing spots.
All are suitable for those with a moderate level of hiking experience.
The diagonal sloped shelf to the cliffs is the only part of the hike
WHICH I DO NOT RECOMMEND THAT ANYONE DO, but you can come with me anyway
if you want.<br />
<br />
MOST HIKES START HERE: (this is where the Flintstones movie was filmed in 1993) <br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/4/5/a/600_431690266.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
FALL AND WINTER PARKING AREA: outside of park on Escondido Canyon Road; avoid obnoxious parking ticket-writing cops who start ticketing at 5 pm<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQirgnzKgibKL97Dzh9aYgXZ92d9OwwoJ64GqhvcBmgtd94tpuaeRoXYOqN5evkuVj9SpfDb6PzDiPPCodT7EX_zvxxiA_ab44r1UZD4yCFnUdRvQ5ZyIvxeboXoq6m6zNhR807HJRA/s1600/Vasquez+rocks+no+ticket+parking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQirgnzKgibKL97Dzh9aYgXZ92d9OwwoJ64GqhvcBmgtd94tpuaeRoXYOqN5evkuVj9SpfDb6PzDiPPCodT7EX_zvxxiA_ab44r1UZD4yCFnUdRvQ5ZyIvxeboXoq6m6zNhR807HJRA/s640/Vasquez+rocks+no+ticket+parking.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
HIKE HERE:<br />
The Cliffs<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/4/7/8/600_431690296.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
Sometimes there is water in the punchbowls, below <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/5/f/c/600_431690684.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
the cave (not much rock scrambling opportunities) <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/4/9/3/600_431690323.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
WEATHER:<br />
<a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/14166:19:US">http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/14166:19:US</a> <br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------- <br />
<br />
HANDY GOOGLE MAP WITH DIRECTIONS:<br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Culver+City,+CA/10700+Escondido+Canyon+Rd,+Agua+Dulce,+CA+91390/@34.2465639,-118.6628016,10z/data=%213m1%214b1%214m14%214m13%211m5%211m1%211s0x80c2ba1edb77739d:0x3185e9d14beb59fe%212m2%211d-118.3964665%212d34.0211224%211m5%211m1%211s0x80c28abc67a8dcb7:0xc7d7f172cfbe73c5%212m2%211d-118.320694%212d34.4885893%213e0">https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Culver+City,+CA/10700+Escondido+Canyon+Rd,+Agua+Dulce,+CA+91390/@34.2465639,-118.6628016,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x80c2ba1edb77739d:0x3185e9d14beb59fe!2m2!1d-118.3964665!2d34.0211224!1m5!1m1!1s0x80c28abc67a8dcb7:0xc7d7f172cfbe73c5!2m2!1d-118.320694!2d34.4885893!3e0</a>Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-68673286354967899352015-08-26T22:43:00.000-07:002015-08-30T10:42:34.153-07:00Buckhorn Falls and Cooper Falls, a lollipop route, in the Angeles Forest High-Country<b>HIKE DOWNHILL ON THE BURKHART TRAIL FROM BUCKHORN CAMPGROUND TO 30
FOOT TALL COOPER FALLS, SPLASH AROUND.....ETC, THEN SLOWLY WALK
UP-CREEK TO THE BASE OF 100 FOOT BUCKHORN FALLS</b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Expect 1/2 mile of creek bouldering on the route to Buckhorn Falls.
We return to start and collect $200 by climbing up the slope to the left
(east) of the falls and plunk down at the beautiful pools at the top of
the falls. Then we quickly take a side trail back to the main trail to
our cars. <br />
<br />
DISTANCE: 7 miles <br />
DIFFICULTY: MODERATE, 1100 feet elevation loss getting there, then 1100 feet elevation gain on the way back<br />
<br />
BRING SHOES WITH GOOD GRIP THAT YOU CAN GET WET!!! <br />
THERE ARE LOTS OF ROCKS TO CLIMB AND MONKEY AROUND UPON!!!! <br />
<br />
<b>PHOTOS:</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206569810670994.1073741870.1443226944&type=1&l=2b4a1a7fb9">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206569810670994.1073741870.1443226944&type=1&l=2b4a1a7fb9</a> <br />
<b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=26096874">http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=26096874</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=1045755">http://www.meetup.com/santamonicahikingclub/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=1045755</a></b><br />
<br />
<b>VIDEOS: </b> <br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/rex.frankel/videos/10206953774389847/?l=2552925260220432819">https://www.facebook.com/rex.frankel/videos/10206953774389847/?l=2552925260220432819</a> <br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10206569923673819&set=vb.1443226944&type=3&theater">https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10206569923673819&set=vb.1443226944&type=3&theater</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10206569880472739&pnref=story">https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10206569880472739&pnref=story</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/0/0/9/600_432113257.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
A stinky national forest restroom is at the Day Use Area. The camp has several restrooms and running water at various faucets. <br />
GPS COORDINATES: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
<br />
LINK TO PARKING MEETING SPOT (left marker)AND BURKHART TRAILHEAD (right marker): <br />
<br />
<a href="http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.34736,-117.91276&z=16&t=M&marker0=34.34749%2C-117.91105%2C5.3%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.34656%2C-117.92092%2C5.2%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA">http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.34736,-117.91276&z=16&t=M&marker0=34.34749%2C-117.91105%2C5.3%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.34656%2C-117.92092%2C5.2%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/9/6/4/event_128555172.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/9/d/2/event_128555282.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/a/1/8/event_128555352.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
PRINTABLE COOPER FALLS TRAILS MAP:<br />
<a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/b/e/2/highres_129503522.jpeg">http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/b/e/2/highres_129503522.jpeg</a><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/d/7/2/event_129503922.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
PRINTABLE TOPO MAP: <a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/3/4/highres_128564852.jpeg">http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/3/4/highres_128564852.jpeg</a><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/a/9/0/event_128555472.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-38532523573130038052015-08-26T22:39:00.000-07:002015-09-03T12:16:39.671-07:00JohnHenge Rocks in the Angeles National Forest High-Country<b><b>5 rock piles, about 2 miles total hike, elevation gain is 200 to 500 feet depending on how many of the "henges" you want to explore </b></b><br />
<br />
<b><b>either named after the national forest restroom you park next to, or local hike leader "that John guy", who discovered them</b> </b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<b>PRINTABLE TOPO MAP: <a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/3/4/highres_128564852.jpeg">http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/3/4/highres_128564852.jpeg</a></b><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/a/9/0/event_128555472.jpeg" /><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/b/9/4/event_128555732.jpeg" /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/c/0/2/event_128555842.jpeg" /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/c/8/e/event_128555982.jpeg" /><br />
<br />
<b>MAP LINK TO THE MEETUP SPOTS:</b><br />
<a href="http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.34933,-117.96295&z=13&t=M&marker0=34.34641%2C-117.92029%2C5.2%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.36090%2C-117.90201%2Cunnamed&marker2=34.35236%2C-117.93394%2Cunnamed&marker3=34.33025%2C-118.00200%2Cunnamed&marker4=34.34933%2C-117.96295%2C6.9%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA">http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.34933,-117.96295&z=13&t=M&marker0=34.34641%2C-117.92029%2C5.2%20km%20N%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.36090%2C-117.90201%2Cunnamed&marker2=34.35236%2C-117.93394%2Cunnamed&marker3=34.33025%2C-118.00200%2Cunnamed&marker4=34.34933%2C-117.96295%2C6.9%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA</a><br />
"A: IS THE BUCKHORN DAY USE PARKING AREA, GPS: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
"B" IS COOPER FALLS, GPS: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
"C" IS CLOUDBURST SUMMIT, GPS: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
"D" IS NEWCOMB'S RANCH--FOR LUNCH, GPS: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
"E" IS JOHNHENGE ROCKS, GPS: N[masked] W[masked]<br />
<br />
<b>MAP LINK TO ROCK FORMATIONS ON JOHNHENGE: : "E" IS THE PARKING AREA</b><br />
<a href="http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.35091,-117.96681&z=15&t=T&marker0=34.35156%2C-117.97019%2C7.6%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.35012%2C-117.97058%2C7.5%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker2=34.35044%2C-117.96880%2C7.4%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker3=34.34757%2C-117.97235%2C7.4%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker4=34.34933%2C-117.96289%2C6.9%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA">http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.35091,-117.96681&z=15&t=T&marker0=34.35156%2C-117.97019%2C7.6%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker1=34.35012%2C-117.97058%2C7.5%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker2=34.35044%2C-117.96880%2C7.4%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker3=34.34757%2C-117.97235%2C7.4%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA&marker4=34.34933%2C-117.96289%2C6.9%20km%20NW%20of%20San%20Gabriel%20Mountains%20CA</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/6/2/2/event_165050722.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/b/9/4/event_128555732.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/8/c/2/event_130723202.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
ABOVE: That John Guy on the ThroneHenge Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-65037052404391443192015-08-26T22:33:00.000-07:002015-08-30T10:42:58.599-07:00Sage Ranch west of ChatsworthA trek along the new eastern loop among the rocks that overlook the
San Fernando Valley, followed by the usual 2 1/2 mile western loop
trail. First loop is walking on rocks a lot. Nothing too wild except the
picture you see below, which is optional if you don't like cool ledges.
Loop #2 is all civilized trail.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
ELEVATION GAIN: not much, about 100 feet on each loop<br />
<br />
NO ROPES ARE REQUIRED--KIND OF LIKE MY TREKS TO VASQUEZ ROCKS PARK<br />
<br />
Dogs are allowed here on leash<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
BELOW: THE LEDGE OF DOOM<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/0/a/4/event_145133412.jpeg" height="341" width="456" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/c/3/0/event_257831312.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/c/6/c/event_257831372.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/5/5/a/600_366230522.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD: from Valley Circle Blvd. in the West San
Fernando Valley, go uphill 2 miles on Woolsey canyon road and at top of
hill, turn right at Sage Ranch sign, and the parking lot is on the left
in 1/4 mile. Park in dirt lot next to the road. Parking is free here.
(If you drive up the road inside the park to the top, you have to pay to
park there. So don't unless you like giving the government your money)<br />
<br />
<b>MAP LINK TO TRAILHEAD AND PARKING: "A" is the parking lot</b><br />
<a href="http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.23739,-118.65874&z=15&t=M&marker0=34.24128%2C-118.67172%2C4.1%20km%20WxNW%20of%20Chatsworth%20Reservoir%20CA">http://mapper.acme.com/?ll=34.23739,-118.65874&z=15&t=M&marker0=34.24128%2C-118.67172%2C4.1%20km%20WxNW%20of%20Chatsworth%20Reservoir%20CA</a><br />
<br />
<br />
A PRINTABLE TRAILS, PARK BOUNDARY AND TOPO MAP IS HERE:<br />
<a href="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/7/4/highres_77746452.jpeg">http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/7/4/highres_77746452.jpeg</a><br />
NOTE, THE EASTERN LOOP IS A BIT LONGER THAN ON THIS MAP, AS I'VE EXPLORED MORE OF THE EASTERN MESA SINCE MAKING THIS MAP<br />
<br />
<img alt="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/7/4/highres_77746452.jpeg" src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/5/7/4/highres_77746452.jpeg" height="494" width="640" /> <br />
<br />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-8022549338141878972015-08-26T22:24:00.001-07:002015-08-30T10:43:37.154-07:00Cave of the Munits and Castle Peak in the West San Fernando Valley<b>THE BIGGEST CAVE IN LOS ANGELES..... </b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>MEET HERE:</b><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/9/4/8/event_257826472.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<b>AND HIKE HERE:</b><br />
<b>(Below: the Cave of the Munits)</b><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/c/0/2/600_366236322.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
VIDEO OF OUR LAST HIKE HERE, THANKS TO WILLIE PRICE:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN6zgy2iOPc">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN6zgy2iOPc</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/2/3/e/600_421853822.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN6zgy2iOPc"> <br /> </a><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/2/7/2/event_75604722.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
(ABOVE: inside the cave (duh) <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/6/8/0/event_194334912.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
ABOVE: top of the chimney cave<br />
<br />
<br />
BELOW: Castle Peak <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/1/5/b/event_21488539.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/2/c/event_194102092.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
The hike is about 3 miles (the Cave is a 100 foot tall chimney cave--has a hole in the top where you can see the sky).<br />
<br />
HIKE DIFFICULTY: CAVE: Medium--we will be ascending through a chimney
cave which does not require ropes or climbing equipment. This requires
using your hands, however. When we climb out the top of the cave, we
will continue up a slippery hillside trail to a notch in the ridge.
(total gain of 700 feet). THIS CLIMB TAKES ABOUT 1 HOUR, OR 1/2 HOUR IF
YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED CLIMBER/HIKER. Just over this notch is the
civilized trail that will take us east to Castle Peak. There is some
easy rock climbing to the top of Castle Peak (up about 50 feet). From
Castle Peak, we will return on the same ridge trail (but not go down
through the cave, instead we will continue west and the ridge trail
leads down the hill) and it will lead us back down to the trail
crossroads and to the cars.<br />
<br />
-----------------------------<br />
<br />
DOGS: no dogs, please, even if on leash. You will have to carry your dog up through the cave, and Rover will not be pleased.<br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS: the trailhead is located at the west end of Vanowen
Avenue (take the 101 freeway to Valley Circle offramp, go north to
Vanowen, turn left (west) and park in neighborhood). Trailhead is where
Vanowen curves to the right (north). There is a 20 foot wide metal gate
at the trailhead. <br />
which is at the "El Scorpion Canyon Park" signRex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-6815753063748824272015-08-26T22:21:00.002-07:002022-03-08T13:05:51.728-08:00Garden of the Gods and the Cliffs of Nyoko in Chatsworth<b>2 HIKES IN THE GARDEN OF THE GODS PARK: either</b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<b>WEST SIDE OF RED MESA: 1/2 mile level hike, lots of rocks to climb and play upon <br />
</b><br />
(video of my last hike here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FvPpbFl-sg&feature=youtu.be">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FvPpbFl-sg&feature=youtu.be</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>OR EAST SIDE OF RED MESA: THE CLIFFS OF NYOKO</b><br />
<br />
VIDEO:
<span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNVpHC9G7wE&feature=youtu.be">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNVpHC9G7wE&feature=youtu.be</a></u></span></span><br />
<br />
PHOTOS:<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206104679323001.1073741860.1443226944&type=1&l=4f617f82ef">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206104679323001.1073741860.1443226944&type=1&l=4f617f82ef</a><br />
<br /><br />
<br />
Either hike is about 1/2 mile, with lots of fun rocks to climb, elevation gain about 50 to 100 feet <br />
<br />
From 118 Freeeway, exit at Topanga Canyon Blvd. Go south and turn right at Santa Susana Pass Road. In a quarter
mile turn right at Redmesa and follow it up the hill and park just
before the condos. There is a park sign on the left.<br />
<br />
<br />
PARK HERE: <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/2/d/8/600_433384824.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
HIKE HERE: <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/c/e/6/600_433331494.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/a/7/6/600_383419062.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/b/1/6/600_383419222.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
more info: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=16">http://www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=16</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/9/d/e/600_431459870.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-84183110180835880872015-08-26T22:09:00.001-07:002015-08-30T10:44:28.854-07:00Hummingbird Trail Tunnel-CaveA SIMPLY AMAZING DISCOVERY OF MINE <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
TWO WAYS TO GET THERE:<br />
<br />
uphill hike totals 1/2 mile plus cave exploration...so about one mile total.<br />
(park under the freeway bridge and meet at north end of intersection of 118 Freeway offramp and Kuehner Drive)<br />
<br />
<br />
OR:<br />
7 mile loop that starts at any of three cool rock-park trailheads: Rocky Peak, Corriganville, or the 118-Kuehner trailhead mentioned above<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
VIDEOS OF TUNNEL CAVE SHOT BY A FELLOW MONKEY:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfHmoMolv70&feature=youtu.be">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfHmoMolv70&feature=youtu.be</a><br />
<br />
<br />
PHOTOS: <br />
<a class="linkified" href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205826054557556.1073741859.1443226944&type=1&l=c51ff94edc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205826054557556.1073741859.1443226944&type=1&l=c51ff94edc">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205826054557556.1073741859.1443226944&type=1&l=c51ff94edc</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/9/d/6/600_431459862.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
------------------------------<br />
WEATHER:<br />
<a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0208">http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0208</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b>PRINTABLE TRAIL MAP: <a href="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/f/7/e/highres_96748542.jpeg">http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/f/7/e/highres_96748542.jpeg</a></b></span><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/7/4/0/event_96746432.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
IN MAP ABOVE: THE GREEN DOTS SHOW THE 7 MILE LOOP<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(BELOW: the Hummingbird trail) <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/9/a/2/event_96747042.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/2/a/event_418632842.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/1/3/4/600_418636692.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(BELOW: the Rock House) </div>
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/b/6/event_418632982.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/3/4/c/event_418633132.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/4/3/2/event_418633362.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(BELOW: the Stagecoach trail into Corriganville)</div>
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/5/3/8/event_96745912.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(BELOW: Corriganville Park)</div>
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/5/0/4/event_418633572.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/5/a/e/event_418633742.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-81971898423781206252015-08-26T21:53:00.000-07:002015-09-09T11:28:05.799-07:00LOWER TOPANGA CREEK rocks-swimming holes-grotto/waterfall<b>WATER HOLES NEAR L.A. IN THE HOT SUMMER </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="line redactor-description" id="event-description-wrap" itemprop="description">
<strong></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong><strong>BELOW: THE GROTTO</strong><img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/a/2/e/600_438443086.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /> </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>HIKE FEATURES: </strong><br />
SEVERAL SWIMMING HOLES, SEVERAL WATERFALLS, A GROTTO (WATERFALL IN
ROOM UNDER A ROCK), AND OH, D'OH!, A ROPE SWING... ALL IN NEARBY
TOPANGA CANYON WITH NO LONG DRIVE ON REALLY TWISTY ROADS<br />
AND......MINT PLANTS EVERYWHERE!!!!!!!! (probably not native, but I don't care.....freakin' smells great!)<br />
<br />
<strong>EXPECTED WEATHER: </strong><br />
<a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/USCA1151:1:US">http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/l/USCA1151:1:US</a><br />
<br />
<em><strong>DISTANCE: </strong>2 MILES BUT AT A REALLY SLOW PACE</em><br />
<em>ELEVATION GAIN AND LOSS: A HUNDRED FEET AT THE MOST</em><br />
<br />
<em>PHOTOS: </em><br />
<em><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10207328051706546.1073741889.1443226944&type=1&l=0b3dcf0896">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10207328051706546.1073741889.1443226944&type=1&l=0b3dcf0896</a></strong></em><br />
<br />
<em>OPTIONS (not required!!): </em><br />
BRING SWIMMING CLOTHES AND A TOWEL IF YOU WANNA JUMP IN!<br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>BRING SHOES WITH GOOD GRIP THAT YOU CAN GET WET----</strong><br />
and......NO DOGS: 'cause this is a State Park<br />
<br />
<strong>----------------------------------------- </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>DRIVING DIRECTIONS: </strong><br />
FROM JUNE THROUGH END OF SEPTEMBER: PLEASE AVOID THE BEACH TRAFFIC JAMS: TAKE 101 FREEWAY TO TOPANGA
CANYON BLVD, GO SOUTH 9 MILES...park along Topanga Canyon Blvd south of
Fernwood Market, meet outside Jalan Jalan Imports, an outdoors furniture
store on the west side of the road<br />
Jalan Jalan Imports is located at 525 South Topanga Canyon Blvd., which is 3.5 miles north of Pacific Coast Highway.<br />
<br />
FREE PARKING IS ALONG EITHER SIDE OF TOPANGA CANYON BLVD. BETWEEN
FERNWOOD MARKET AND JALAN JALAN IMPORTS--STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE
WHITE LINE SO YOU DON'T GET TICKETED OR LOSE YOUR MIRROR<br />
<br />
<strong>PLEASE PAY ATTENTION TO NO-PARKING SIGNS!!!</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>HOW TO FIND THE "TUNNEL":</strong><br />
the address on Google for the trail entrance which leads to the
"tube" is 1636 S. Topanga Canyon Road on the west side, AND IS 20 FEET
DOWN-ROAD FROM THE "SLIPPERY WHEN WET" ROAD SIGN. At the bottom of the
tube, turn right, walk downstream and you will see us soon. THE TOPANGA
CREEK HIKE<strong> FOLLOWS THE WEST SIDE OF CREEK FOR MOST OF ROUTE</strong>
AND FEATURES LOTS OF CLIMBING OVER 3 TO 4 FOOT TALL BOULDERS (AND
OPTIONALLY, SOME 20 FEET TALL). YOU WILL USE YOUR HANDS AS WELL AS YOUR
FEET. THAT'S WHY I CALL MY HIKES "MONKEYING AROUND". CLIMBING OF THE
BIGGER BOULDERS IS OPTIONAL.....<br />
<br />
The first stop is the play area with the rope swing. Next stop is
the deep swimming hole. After that we get to the grotto with the 6 FOOT
waterfall inside (which is slowing to a trickle, as of August 15th).
After that, more downstream, is another 4 foot deep
swimming hole.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>----------------------------------</strong><br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/7/3/0/600_439826416.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<strong>BELOW: THE TUBE (aka THE TIME TUNNEL)</strong><br />
AN AWESOME VIDEO BY WILLIE: <a href="https://youtu.be/EJDFBApKbNc">https://youtu.be/EJDFBApKbNc</a><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/6/5/f/600_438466687.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<strong>BELOW:</strong> THE DEEP SWIMMING HOLE, AND YOUR HIKE LEADER SWIMMING "VOLUNTARILY"<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/5/8/d/600_438750093.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/a/0/b/600_438443051.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />BELOW: POISON OAK<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/b/2/b/600_438687435.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/b/4/f/600_438687471.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
THERE IS THE <em>POTENTIAL</em> FOR POISON OAK CONTACT, BUT TRAIL ANGELS HAVE CUT IT BACK SO IT IS REALLY EASY TO AVOID!<br />
<br />
--------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<strong>WATER QUALITY INFO:</strong><br />
<br />
according to the Topanga State park general plan, the lower 3.7 miles
of Topanga creek has 56 springs and seeps, which explains why the gorge
is full of water in the summer while upstream a mile in the developed
area, the creek is dry. SOURCE: page 19 <a href="http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/21299/files/02finalgp-ch2.pdf">http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/21299/files/02finalgp-ch2.pdf</a><br />
<br />
ALSO: I did some research and found out the locals call the Tube down to the creek the Time Tunnel. Here's some links about it:<br />
<a href="http://www.enjoygram.com/location/279629423">http://www.enjoygram.com/location/279629423</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sebastianwschmid.com/blog/2015/4/14/time-tunnel-1">http://www.sebastianwschmid.com/blog/2015/4/14/time-tunnel-1</a><br />
<a href="http://www.topangamessenger.com/story_detail.php?SectionID=&ArticleID=1673">http://www.topangamessenger.com/story_detail.php?SectionID=&ArticleID=1673</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Topanga-Canyon-time-Tunnels/291610550955220">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Topanga-Canyon-time-Tunnels<strong>/291610550955220</strong></a><br />
<br />
<strong>Some of you asked about studies of the springs in lower Topanga canyon. The best one can be downloaded here <a href="http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/handle/2027.42/41229">http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/handle/2027.42/41229</a></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>MAP OF SPRINGS AND SEEPS IN THE CANYON:</strong><br />
<strong><a href="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/5/7/highres_440891095.jpeg">http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/5/7/highres_440891095.jpeg</a></strong><br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/5/7/highres_440891095.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
</div>
<br /><br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/6/7/0/600_438226704.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br /><img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/5/8/4/600_438750084.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/6/1/f/600_438226623.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-16086713489458385162015-08-26T21:41:00.003-07:002015-08-30T10:45:28.472-07:00Skull Rock-Temescal Canyon LoopSPOOKY.... <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
We'll hike uphill from the intersection of Bienveneda Avenue and Via Floresta to the Temescal Ridge
fireroad, continue another half mile to the Skull rocks and caves--yes,
there are a bunch to play on and in. PLAYING ON THE ROCKS IS OPTIONAL.
YOU CAN JUST SIT AND ENJOY THE VIEW. Then we drop down into Temescal
canyon to the conference center area and take a quick loop back to our starting point <br />
<br />
DISTANCE: ABOUT 6 MILES, elevation gain: about 2 light-years. OK, I don't know, I'm too lazy to look it up<br />
<br />
OK, after some pestering, I looked it up: from the start, we gain 750
feet to Skull Rock using the Leacock trail and Temescal Ridge. After we
drop into Temescal Canyon, we gain 500 feet on the way from Temescal to Bienveneda.
So that's at least 1/2 light years, right?. <br />
<br />
CLOSEST DINNER SPOT THAT ACCOMODATES A LARGE GROUP: THE REEL INN (at Topanga Canyon and PCH)<br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS: Take Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades to Bienveneda Ave;
follow it north to the beginning of the gated community and park on Via
Floresta or Bienveneda.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1580+Bienveneda+Ave,+Pacific+Palisades,+CA+90272/@34.0618767,-118.5432173,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80c2a3a51fdec127:0x85ead816f4e329cb?hl=en">https://www.google.com/maps/place/1580+Bienveneda+Ave,+Pacific+Palisades,+CA+90272/@34.0618767,-118.5432173,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80c2a3a51fdec127:0x85ead816f4e329cb?hl=en</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/a/0/8/600_408599912.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<br />
NO DOGS ALLOWED--PARK RULES, not mine<br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS: Take Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades to Bienveneda Ave;
follow it north to the beginning of the gated community and park on Via
Floresta.<br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/a/c/9/event_42203241.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-23369430459840460102015-08-26T21:33:00.002-07:002015-11-04T19:39:30.571-08:00Sandstone Peak and Tri-Peaks Cave and Crack Exploration from the Mishe Mokwa trailheadEXPLORE A CRACKED-UP VOLCANIC MOUNTAIN<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Monkeying around, definition (Rex's dictionary): hiking plus assorted tomfoolery involving cool boulders and caves, providing a workout for both legs and arms, while our hike leader plays guitar and attempts to "sing" your favorite songs<br />
<br />
-------------------------------------<br />
<br />
IMPORTANT TRIVIA: Did you know that Sandstone Peak is not made of
Sandstone? True. It is volcanic rock (Andesite/Basalt). Anyway, it is
also called Mount Allen, named for the man who gave Circle X ranch to
the Boy Scouts. It is also not made out of Mr. Allen. But that's just
silly... <br />
<br />
DISTANCE: 8.7 miles total <br />
THE PLAN: We will start from the Mishe Mokwa trailhead and go 2 miles
uphill to Sandstone Peak (elevation gain 900 feet), write naughty poems
in the register book and EAT LUNCH while admiring the view. Below is
the view at Sandstone Peak....Tri-Peaks is the middle and tallest of the
peaks in the background <br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/c/3/3/600_441095891.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
Then we continue another mile and a half to Tri-Peaks. We will climb
up the northwest side, making good use of our grippy shoes. (NOTE: bring
grippy shoes.) The rocks here are volcanic and have lots of handholds
for easy climbing. Then we will go up and down and around and eventually
find our way into a big room that has 4 entrances. However, it has no
exits so we will be screwed. That's the end of the hike; we will now
live here.<br />
Oh yeah, if we do find our way out by walking backwards through the
entrances, we will head to the crater in the middle of the peak. Next,
we will pass through a tunnel to reach the top, enjoying the view and
the overhang cave. Then we will finish at Tri-Peaks by walking through
the 500 foot long by 4 foot wide and 30 foot deep crack (a fissure in
the lava) back to where we started. It's very cool. <br />
Then when we have come to our senses we will head back to our cars Up and mostly downhill the way we came.<br />
<br />
<b>---------------------MORE DETAILS ABOUT TRI-PEAKS:</b> <br />
<br />
Tri-Peaks is a volcanic mountain that shattered, leaving labyrinths, cracks and caves for we adventurers to explore. <br />
<br />
WE WILL SPEND 2 to 3 HOURS DOING A FULL CIRCLE CLIMB AROUND, UP,
OVER, UNDER and THROUGH TRI-PEAKS. WE WILL CLIMB ROCKS THAT ARE SIMILAR
TO THE ONES PICTURED ABOVE. BECAUSE IT IS SOLID VOLCANIC ROCK, IT HAS
HAND AND FOOTHOLDS EVERYWHERE AND IS VERY EASY TO CLIMB--YES, YOU WILL
NEED TO USE YOUR HANDS A LOT HERE.<br />
BRING A FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP FOR THE CAVE EXPLORATION<br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/9/6/600_426856022.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
-----VIDEO of the hike: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=607Iv3UaQo0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=607Iv3UaQo0</a><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/5/d/0/600_426857872.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
BELOW: CRACK ATTACK<br />
<img src="http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/2/f/7/600_432337623.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: moderate<br />
THE PARK HAS A (totally arbitrary and silly) LIMIT OF 50 PEOPLE, AND
12 CARS MAXIMUM (National Park Service rules). So please carpool if
possible. If you are the 51st person and/or in the 13th car, I am
legally required to glare at you for a good long while.<br />
<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
AMAZING PHOTOS (if I should say so myself):<br />
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=25450392">http://www.meetup.com/hiking-196/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=25450392</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205351095363873.1073741847.1443226944&type=1&l=c1f690a7f4">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205351095363873.1073741847.1443226944&type=1&l=c1f690a7f4</a><br />
<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
THERE IS NOT MUCH SHADE ON THIS HIKE.....BUT<br />
EXPECTED WEATHER IS:<br />
<a href="http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0660">http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0660</a><br />
<br />
NEAREST POST-HIKE DINNER AND BEER-FEST PLACE: NEPTUNE'S NET (PCH and Yerba Buena Road).<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------------<br />
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HOW TO GET THERE: it usually takes 1 and 1/2 hours to get here from central L.A.. <br />
<br />
(NOTE: DO NOT TAKE THIS ROUTE!!!!): If you like slow beach traffic:
TAKE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY west to Yerba Buena Road. Turn right (uphill)
and go around 6 miles. You will pass the Circle X Ranch ranger
building. Continue on the road for another mile or so, past the parking
lot with the Sandstone Peak Trailhead sign, to two dirt lots on either
side of Yerba Buena Road. This is the Mishe Mokwa trailhead. Park here.
Get out of your car.<br />
<br />
OR: FROM L.A. TAKE THE 101 FREEWAY WEST TO THE KANAN DUME ROAD
OFFRAMP. Turn Left. Take Kanan Dume south for several miles until you
get to Mulholland Highway. Turn right. Very soon the road forks. Take
the left fork, which is Encinal Canyon Road. Go a few more miles and at
the "T", turn right onto Lachuza road. In a short distance, turn right
onto Decker road. Continue 1 mile and turn left onto Mulholland Highway.
In a 1/4 mile, a sudden right turn appears. This is Little Sycamore
Road. Follow this twisty road for several more miles and with beautiful
rock formations in the background, two dirt parking lots appear, one on
each side of the road. WE MEET HERE!!!!! Some maps call this spot
Triunfo Pass.<br />
If you get to a big "Sandstone Peak" parking lot sign, you have gone
too far. If you get to the Circle X ranch ranger station, you have
really gone too far. Turn around!<br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodUz_7TdcqTH90fAEm1pzQD9UCd39v9yrF2wguBmD88p8fwThm9qu-JNa7yRSh8REkIH5zi12MsqekvVdaGHcEbxX0DIQs_wY7lNbCBIdKJepa0zIOkopniKsTR5yue2-6JBPjqgZFg/s1600/Mishe+Mokwa+parking+lot+street+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodUz_7TdcqTH90fAEm1pzQD9UCd39v9yrF2wguBmD88p8fwThm9qu-JNa7yRSh8REkIH5zi12MsqekvVdaGHcEbxX0DIQs_wY7lNbCBIdKJepa0zIOkopniKsTR5yue2-6JBPjqgZFg/s640/Mishe+Mokwa+parking+lot+street+view.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
PRINTABLE TRAILS AND PARKING LOCATION MAP:<br />
<a href="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/4/c/8/highres_402853512.jpeg">http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/4/c/8/highres_402853512.jpeg</a><br />
<br />
Here are Google map directions from the 101 freeway at Kanan Dume
Road (please try them, it took a lot of fiddling with the wacko Google
maps direction system to make it):<br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/34.1462937,-118.7611594/34.1145887,-118.9182564/@34.1346208,-118.8375307,11z/am=t/data=%214m4%214m3%211m0%211m0%213e0?hl=en">https://www.google.com/maps/dir/34.1462937,-118.7611594/34.1145887,-118.9182564/@34.1346208,-118.8375307,11z/am=t/data=!4m4!4m3!1m0!1m0!3e0?hl=en</a><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/c/c/0/600_402735552.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4685459305591531990.post-45126635204851595512015-01-24T21:38:00.002-08:002015-09-02T12:53:29.731-07:00Baldwin Hills--Kenneth Hahn Park<span style="font-size: large;"><b>AN URBAN WILDLIFE HIDEAWAY</b></span>
<b><img src="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/9/3/d/event_25427421.jpeg" /></b> <br />
<b>(photo by Alison Inconstanti)</b><br />
<br />
<b>Hike Length: 2 hours, 4 miles </b><br />
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<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/8/b/2/event_437470418.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/f/d/7/600_438688631.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
HIKE STARTS AT LIZARD STATUE, WHICH IS JUST UPHILL FROM THIS SIGN.<br />
upon entering the park at the intersection of La Brea and Don Lorenzo,
climb up the steps and continue up the hill to the LEFT of this sign. At
the top on the RIGHT is some exercise equipment and the LIZARD. Take
off your clothes (just checking if you're reading down this far...) <br />
--we get a 360 degree view from Downtown L.A. to Malibu to Palos Verdes and can watch the sunset.<br /><br />
<strong>------------------------------</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>HIKE ROUTE: we follow the highest ridgeline from the "east
entrance" sign, passing the exercise equipment, continuing on the north
side of the "Bowl Loop", then going north to the three pagodas (map
calls them "lookout points"). Then we come back the way we came. We may
take slight diversions of this route, such as the CityView trail, or
Ron's Trail (which is the trail parallel to the ridge line which is
closer to La Brea), but the halfway point is ALWAYS the most northerly
pagoda at 7:30ish.</strong><br />
<br />
DIFFICULTY: Easy, 200 feet maximum elevation gain on a civilized trail. Lots of restrooms and water fountains.<br />
PARKING: always free.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>DOGS: are allowed as long as owner is on a leash</b><br />
BRING WATER, COMFORTABLE SHOES, MAYBE A HAT IF IT'S HOT...<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/1/8/5/event_35869541.jpeg" /> </b><br />
<b>(Photo by "That John Guy") </b><br />
<b><br /> </b><br />
<b><br /> </b><br />
<b><img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/6/5/event_18363429.jpeg" height="239" width="425" /> <br /> </b><br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/8/c/2/event_19150434.jpeg" /> <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/f/9/event_18363577.jpeg" /> <br />
<br />
<br /><span><strong> </strong></span><br />
<span><strong>BEST AFTER-HIKE DINNER SPOT (can handle large groups, and is cheap and somewhat healthy): GABY'S EXPRESS, (MEDITERRANEAN
Chicken, beef and vegetarian), lots of garlic sauce if you like it.
LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LA CIENEGA AND WASHINGTON BLVD. (2901
La Cienega, which is 1/2 mile north of the hiking spot) <a href="http://www.gabysexpress.com/">http://www.gabysexpress.com/</a></strong></span><br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<span><strong>A LITTLE HISTORY: SEE THE VIDEOS OF THE BALDWIN HILLS DAM BURSTING ON DECEMBER 14, 1963</strong></span><br />
<span><strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIeNM8cm6J8">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIeNM8cm6J8</a></strong></span><br />
<span><strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjfa-c8KUDw">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjfa-c8KUDw</a></strong></span><br />
<span>PART OF OUR TRAIL LOOPS AROUND THE FORMER L.A. CITY RESERVOIR</span><br />
<br />
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<br />
<strong>PRINTABLE MAP OF TRAILS AND WHERE TO PARK:</strong><br />
<strong><a href="http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/7/4/4/highres_437470052.jpeg">http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/7/4/4/highres_437470052.jpeg</a></strong><br />
<img src="http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/7/6/9/event_437470089.jpeg" style="margin: 5px; max-height: 700px; max-width: 700px;" /><br />
Rex Frankelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02628414635820202044noreply@blogger.com0