Not So Casual Hikes Orange County

Get a sneak peek here: Bell Canyon, Oso, East Ridge, Quail Run at Caspers Wilderness Park.

***This hike is not recommended for beginners. It requires solid physical fitness, prior hiking experience, and the ability to handle challenging terrain. We strongly advise participation only if you meet these criteria.

Join us for a scenic and moderately challenging ~10-mile hike at Caspers Wilderness Park, where we’ll explore a beautiful mix of canyon paths, panoramic ridgelines, and open grasslands. Our route will include Bell Canyon, Sun Rise, East Ridge, Oso, and Quail Run trails, offering diverse terrain, steady elevation changes, and sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness. Expect a combination of shaded canyon trails and exposed ridgelines, with a few good climbs to get the heart rate up.

Location: Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Meeting Place: We'll meet at the Bell Canyon Trailhead (Gate 18), located at the dead end of Caspers Park Rd, where the trail begins. Look for the group gathering near the Gate 18 sign.
Park Map

Parking: $5 on Sundays. OC Parks annual passes are also accepted.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance/Elevation: Approximately 10 miles; ~1800 feet (cumulative gain, accounting for both ascents and descents along the route).

Essentials:
· Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Hiking poles (optional but recommended for steep sections)
· Water
· Snacks/energy bars
· Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
· A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Route Details:

• Start at the Bell Canyon Trailhead (Gate 18)
• Follow Bell Canyon Trail through the shaded canyon
• Continue onto Sun Rise Trail
• Connect to East Ridge Trail
• Take Cougar Pass and ascend Oso Trail
• Reach the No Access Rd/Oso intersection - this is our turnaround point
• Retrace back to East Ridge Trail
• Descend via Quail Run
• Return to the starting point at Bell Canyon Trailhead

Note: DOGS are not allowed, so please leave pets at home.

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Tags: #Hiking #OutdoorAdventure #OrangeCountyHikes

🥾 Billy Goat Trail Sneak Peek! 🥾
Vista Lookout & Red Rock preview

Join us for an intermediate-level, ~8-mile hike beginning on the Borrego Trail, ascending to Vista Outlook, continuing along the Billy Goat Trail, and extending to Red Rock. Expect a solid workout with about 1,000-1,200 feet of elevation gain and stunning views!

Details:

• Meeting Place: By the big 'sundial' statue in the park near the trailhead (west of the gas station).
• Meeting Time: 7:30 AM (Expect the hike to last approximately 2.5–3 hours).
• Parking: There is a small parking lot at the trailhead that requires either an OC Parking Pass or a $3 fee. Alternatively, you can park across the street in the lot between McDonald's and the nearby shops. ***Avoid parking near Ralph's, as security patrols that parking lot and may issue tickets.
• General Rating/Difficulty: Level 2/2+ (Moderate Pace for distance, elevation, and pace.
• Distance/Elevation/Duration: Estimate: approx. 8 miles, 1200+- ft gain, and ~2–2.5 hours (moderate pace).
• Note: This is a group workout; there is no designated leader or sweeper.

Essentials: Ensure you are prepared for the journey with:

• Traction hiking shoes
• Ample water
• Snacks
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Hat

Route: We’ll take the Borrego Canyon Trail to Mustard Trail, hike up to Vista Outlook, and then turn around back to Mustard. From there, we’ll head to Cactus Pond, take the Billy Goat Trail to 4 Corners, return to Mustard, and continue to the optional Red Rock extension before heading back via Borrego Canyon.

About Whiting Ranch: Explore the natural beauty of Limestone Canyon & Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, spanning 4,300 acres of diverse landscapes. From riparian and oak woodland canyons to rolling grassland hills, immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, including the captivating Red Rock Canyon. Witness remnants of the park's cattle ranching past as it rejuvenates from the 2007 Santiago Fire.
For more information:

• Orange County Parks
• Whiting Ranch Wilderness

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.

REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
#hiking #outdoors #rucking

Get a preview here: Scenic Coastal and Canyon Loop Hike: Pacific Ridge to Elevator Trail!

***This hike is not recommended for beginners. It requires a good level of physical fitness, experience in hiking, and the ability to navigate challenging terrains. We strongly advise that only those with prior hiking experience and a suitable fitness level participate.

Join us for a 10-10.5-mile loop hike starting from Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park in Newport Coast, CA. This hike offers a mix of coastal views, ridgeline trails, and shaded canyon paths. Experience some of the most stunning trails in Newport Coast, including Pacific Ridge, No Name Ridge, Bommer Ridge, and Moro Canyon with a challenging ascent on the Elevator Trail. We’ll also stop at the Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground for a break and access to facilities.

Location: Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park Road, Newport Beach CA 92657
· Meeting Place: We will meet at the Ridge Park Entrance at the dead end of Ridge Park Road, which is the start of the trailhead. Look for the group gathering near the trailhead sign.
· Parking: Street (free)
· Difficulty: Moderate to hard
· Distance/Elevation: Approximately 10-10.5 miles; ~1800 feet (cumulative gain, accounting for both ascents and descents along the route).
·Shaded Sections: Moro Canyon Trail, partially near the campground.
·Exposed Sections: No Name Ridge, No Dogs, Elevator Trail, and Bommer Ridge.
·Facilities: Bathroom available at Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground.

Essentials:
· Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Hiking poles (optional but recommended for steep sections)
· Water
· Snacks/energy bars
· Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
· A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Route Details:

• We'll start at Ridge Park Entrance and head to No Name Ridge (~2 miles).
• Continue on No Name Ridge to No Dogs (~1 mile).
• Descend to El Moro Canyon (~1 mile).
• Follow Moro Canyon (~1.5 miles).
• Reach Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground (~0.5 miles from Moro Canyon). *There is a restroom at this point.
• Connect to Elevator Trail (~1.5 miles). This trail is known for its steep incline and rewarding views.
• Return to Ridge Park Entrance via Bommer Ridge (~2.5 miles).

Note: DOGS are not allowed on many trails within Crystal Cove State Park, so please leave pets at home.
Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Tags: #HikingOC #OutdoorAdventure #OrangeCountyHikes #AdvancedHike #CrystalCoveStatePark

Get a sneak peek here: Sheep Run to Meadows

***This hike is not recommended for beginners. It requires a good level of physical fitness, experience in hiking, and the ability to navigate challenging terrains. We strongly advise that only those with prior hiking experience and a suitable fitness level participate.

Join us for a scenic 11+ mile loop hike near Laguna Beach, CA. The trail typically takes about 4 - 4.5 hours to complete.

Location: Canyon View Park, Aliso Viejo, California.

· Meeting Place: Canyon View Staging Area
· General Rating/Difficulty: Level 2+/3 (Moderate pace for distance, elevation, and pace.
· Distance/Elevation/Duration: Level 2+/3 Estimate: 11+ miles, approximately 817+- ft gain.
· Parking: Street

Essentials:
· Comfortable hiking shoes
· Water
· Snacks/energy bars
· Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
· A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Route Details:

1. We'll start at Canyon View Staging Area.
2. From there, we'll follow Wood Canyon Trail to Wood Canyon Creek and continue toward Coyote Run.
3. We'll take Coyote Run Trail and loop back to Wood Canyon. From there, we'll head up Meadows Trail to Sheep Run and connect with Aswut.
4. We'll return via Meadows Trail to Wood Canyon and finish back at Canyon Vistas.

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.