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Hike and Beach Day at Abalone Cove!

Hey Hiking Pacers,

This week we are headed to Rancho Palos Verdes for a hike at Del Cerro Park and beach day at Abalone Cove!

Date and Time: Sunday, July 1, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions: 5.5 miles roundtrip
Hike Difficulty: Level 1.5 (details)

Meeting Location: Del Cerro Park

lat/lon   33.757974 , -118.368298
29847 Crenshaw Blvd, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
There is a small parking lot at Del Cerro Park with street parking along Crenshaw Blvd.
Directions: From 405, take Crenshaw Blvd exit and go South on Crenshaw for about 9 miles to Del Cerro Park.
From 110 South, exit on PCH and go West for 3 miles and turn left onto Crenshaw Blvd.  Drive South for about 4 miles to Del Cerro Park.

After the hike, we can head to Abalone Cove Shoreline Park to check out the tidal pools.  Directions: From Del Cerro Park, drive North on Crenshaw Blvd and turn left on Crest Road, after 0.5 miles turn left on Hawthorne Blvd.  After 2 miles, turn left onto Palos Verdes Drive and proceed 2 miles.  Abalone Cove Shoreline Park parking lot is on the right.  $5 for parking.

*Please note: The beach day gathering is an informal event.  There will not be anything provided.  Please feel free to bring whatever you would like to have to enjoy at the beach.  Fires, campstoves, and pets are not allowed.  Carpooling is encouraged to Abalone Cove to save the $5 parking.*

See you all on Sunday morning!!

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Chili Cook-Off Competition & Hollywood Sign Hike

Get ready for the first Pasadena Hiking Pacers Chili Cook-Off Competition!!

First the HIKE:
- There will be a hike to the Hollywood Sign prior to the cook-off.
- 5-5.5 miles roundtrip Level 1.5
- Meeting Location: Parking lot by the Merry Go-Round (see map:https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B4KbdJhDynrIdG9qUUc1am5NNzg).
- The hike will start promptly at 7:30 AM.

Chili Cook-Off:

The PHP will be hosting this Chili Cook-Off at Griffith Park after our nice hike. The Cook-Off should start as the hikers return from the hike around 10-11am. If you want to just come for the Cook-Off only, feel free to RSVP and bring your tasting tongue.

If you make a yummy chili, come join the competition to see if you will reign as the “Chili King”! The winner will be chosen using your votes (in dollars donated) stuffed into the competitor’s green can. Remember to bring plenty of singles to make sure your vote is heard. Ballot stuffing is encouraged. The chili cook with the most votes will be the winner! All donations will benefit the PHP.

DETAILS FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO COMPETE:
- Please let us know if you are planning on competing by commenting on the posting here or e-mailing Todd (todd.kawakami@alumni.usc.edu).
- All competitors should keep their receipts for their supplies to be reimbursed by the PHP.
- You must prepare your own chili at home and bring it to Griffith Park (or make it on site if you dare) on Sunday morning.
- Be set up and ready to serve the chili in small tastes to all attendees before 10 a.m. We will provide some of these supplies so ask Todd.
- Have some way to warm up your chili at the park.
- CHEATING IS ALLOWED! Make sure to bring your A game…if it were me, I’d have a secret weapon to sway those votes like a side dish, drink, or hot wife handing out the food…just an idea.
-Be prepared to flaunt your bragging rights as the “Chili King”!!!

DETAILS FOR EVERYONE:
- The cook-off will be taking place at the picnic tables SE of the tennis courts (see map: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B4KbdJhDynrIdG9qUUc1am5NNzg)

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Hike to Switzer Falls

Hey Hiking Pacers,

This week, we are headed to Switzer Falls!

Date and Time:  Sunday, June 17, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions: 4.5 miles roundtrip with 600′ elevation gain/loss
Hiking Difficulty: Level 1 (details)

Meeting Location: From the 210 freeway in La Canada take the Angeles Crest Highway (2 freeway)  North 10 miles to Switzer Picnic Area on the right hand side.  Descend to the parking area and display your Adventure Pass.  (Lat: 34.26900832286055 Lon: -118.14644426107407)

*Adventure Pass is needed for each parked vehicle in this area.  The National Forest Adventure Pass is a requirement by the US Forest Service for vehicles parked within certain recreation sites and areas in the forest.  You can purchase either a day pass for $5.00 or an annual pass for $30.00.  For more information on the Adventure Pass, please visit the US Forest Service website.  To search for a local vendor to purchase a pass, please click here.

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes.  If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Hike to First Water via Old Mt. Wilson Trail

Hey Hiking Pacers…so sorry for the delayed post,

This week we are taking a hike to First Water. Hope you can join us!

Date and Time: Sunday, June 10, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Description: First Water – 3 miles roundtrip with 980’ elevation gain/loss

Meeting Location: 168 E. Mira Monte Ave., Sierra Madre
Meet in front of the park located on Mira Monte Ave.
From the 210 freeway Arcadia, exit Santa Anita Avenue and go North. Turn left (West) on Grand View. From Grand View turn right (North) on Mountain Trail Ave. Drive up a couple blocks to where the road ends but turns left as Mira Monte Ave. Turn left here. Immediately on your right is Mount Wilson Trail Drive. Park in this area on the street, either on the lower end of Mount Wilson Trail Drive or on Mira Monte. (Lon: 34.1694266 Lat: -118.0491448)

See you all on Sunday morning!!

 

PS There are plenty of longer options for you adventurous hikers and trail runners training for upcoming marathons. This is the trail that the Old Mt Wilson Trail Race is run on each year.

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony and Todd.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Sturtevant Falls Hike

Hey Hiking Pacers,

We have some great hikes in store for you…

Our Second hike of this season is to Sturtevant Falls! Please come out and bring friends and family who have always wanted to try hiking. If you are a seasoned hiker with the PHP, please come out and just h…ave a short relaxing morning walk with us or try the intermediate option, see below for details.

Date and Time: Sunday, June 3, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions:
Option #1: (Easy) 3.7 miles roundtrip with 700′ elevation gain/loss
Hiking Difficulty: Level 1 (details)

Option #2: (Intermediate) 7 miles roundtrip (Not sure about the elevation, will update later) This hike is to Sturtevant Falls with the option to continue the hike to Hoagees Loop. Please note that this longer hike might end later than 11 a.m.
Hiking Difficulty: Level 3 (details)

Meeting Location: Chantry Flats Recreation Area
From the 210 freeway, exit at Santa Anita and continue North on Santa Anita about 4.8 miles (it becomes a winding mountain road that ends at the parking lot). Our group will meet down by the large gate next to the bathrooms. (Lon: 34.195687 Lat: -118.022432)

*Adventure Pass is needed for each parked vehicle in this area. The National Forest Adventure Pass is a requirement by the US Forest Service for vehicles parked within certain recreation sites and areas in the forest. You can purchase either a day pass for $5.00 or an annual pass for $30.00. For more information on the Adventure Pass, please visit the US Forest Service website. To search for a local vendor to purchase a pass, please click here.

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony and Todd.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Hike to Monrovia Canyon Falls

Hey Hiking Pacers,

We are so excited to start another hiking cycle.  We will meet new people and continue spending time with our regular hikers.  Many new places to explore and admire some of what nature has to offer.  This week we are heading to Monrovia Canyon Falls. Another easy beginner hike that is good for the family. Please bring your friends and family who have always wanted to try hiking. Start to train weekly to slowly build the stamina for our upcoming longer hikes.

Date and Time: Sunday, May 27, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions:
Easy Hike: 3.4 miles roundtrip (includes the walk from car to meeting place) with 720′ elevation gain/loss
Hiking Difficulty: Level 1

No longer hiking option available in this event.

Meeting Location: Monrovia Canyon Park – 1200 N. Canyon Blvd., Monrovia, CA 91016
Off the 210 Freeway, exit Myrtle Avenue, drive through Old Town Monrovia to Foothill Blvd, turn right, go two lights to Canyon Blvd, turn left, drive through residential area for about 1 mile staying to the right, turn right into Canyon Park at the 3-foot-tall sign.

PLEASE NOTE: The group will be meeting at the Park Entrance Station (NOT THE GATE). The Entrance Station is at the park’s parking area.

PARKING: The parking at Monrovia Canyon Park is $5.00 per vehicle (Adventure Pass will NOT suffice as the Monrovia Canyon Park is under the jurisdiction of the City of Monrovia Department of Public Works, Parks Division). If you would like to avoid the parking fee, you may park in the residential area outside the park and walk along the road 0.6 mile to the park entrance station to meet with the group, so please plan accordingly.

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony, and Todd.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Pasadena Marathon Support

Hello Hikers,
Hiking is not just about blasting calories and eating after wards. It is about, in part, about camaraderie, about helping and supporting others, and most importantly, about making new friends. On May 20, we will like to take a day off from hiking. As such…, there will not be a hike on May 20, but instead we would like you to help support and cheer our fellow group, the Pasadena Pacers Running Club, as they bike and run the Pasadena Marathon. They are in need of volunteers for the water station, people who can cheer and support their tent, and people who can celebrate with the runners as they cross the finish line.

for more info. click or go onto the Survey link below:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDBHUDdMU0RwcHNGbkhnZ05NeWduWFE6MQ

If you are interested in biking the course, Tony P. Delgado would like to get a group together. Send him a message if you are interested.

We sure hope you can make it!!!

See you all on Sunday morning on May 20!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony, and Todd.

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Grand Hiking Cycle Finale – 5 Peaks above Pasadena

Our last hike was a Blast!!! Our hikes are getting better and better… we have an amazing group of hikers…
in Jason’s words “Another great hike with PHP. We didn’t plan on going to Wilson again (just within a mile), but we didn’t want to pass the No Trespassing signs… (to Harvard Peak), so (we) back up to the Mt Wilson cafe to eat our cake, ice cream, juice bars, and watermelon. Yeah, you read that right, and we hiked it up, didn’t buy it at the cafe. Over 5000′ of elevation with 20 (lbs.) of ice cream and juice bars in my pack”.

Yeah, you read that right!!! We were having a feast at the Mt. Wilson Cafe… Chiffon cake, Ice Cream, Fruit bars, Popsicles, and watermelon… special thanks to Jason for carrying the ice cream and fruit bars and to Edith for getting and carrying a 20 pound watermelon… and very special thanks to Frances for making the Chiffon cake and getting the ice cream/fruit bars…

For the last hike of this hiking season, we are planning an epic hiking adventure for all of you — “5 Peaks Above Pasadena.”

One hike, 5 peaks, 18.5 miles, 5,500 ft approx gain and some pretty excellent views. Maybe 6 peaks if you count Echo Mountain, but that is not in the cards unless we want to make a stop on the way back. We’ll first make our way up to Inspiration Point and continue around Mt. Lowe to Mt. Disappointment, and San Gabriel Peak. On our way back, we’ll bag Mt. Markham and then the Mt. Lowe summit before descending back to the trailhead.

*The route will be mostly exposed to the sun, so please prepare accordingly – hats, sunscreen and plenty of water (at least 3 liters) and food/snacks.*

Date and Time: Sunday, May 13, 2012, 6:30 AM *earlier start time due to expected warm weather*

Descriptions: 18.5 miles roundtrip with 5,500′ elevation gain/loss
Hiking Difficulty: Level 5 (details)

Meeting Location: Cobb Estate, Lake Ave & E Loma Alta Drive, Altadena, CA 91001
From the 210, take the Lake Avenue exit, go North from Pasadena into Altadena. Continue on the road as it climbs a hill and park near the sharp left hand turn outside the Cobb Estate. Meet in front of the large iron gate.

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony and Todd.

P.S. Our new season will start May 27th with a easy and beginner friendly hike … come out with your friends and family and start a season of hiking adventures with us!

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Mt. Yale & Mt. Harvard, via Jones Peak & Hastings Peak

Hey Hiking Pacers,
Our hike to Mt. Wilson was a hard hike with amazing views and delicious rewards…

In Gil’s words “… pretty steep elevation gains… but the idea of having a chili dog at the top motivated most people… I was never so happy to see a cold grilled chi…cken sandwich”

This week, we are heading to Mt. Harvard and Mt. Yale!

Now, this hike is a little harder than the one to Mt. Wilson due to the longer distance, but I do not have a doubt that our core/regular group will be able to handle it.

Date and Time: Sunday, May 6, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions: approx. 15.5 miles with 4,350′ elevation gain/loss

We will hike up to Mount Harvard and we’ll pass through Jones & Hastings Peaks. In our descent of Mt. Harvard, we’ll detour “up” Mt. Yale before heading back down the mountain. This is an out & back hike.

*********** N O T E **************
This hike will be mostly exposed with very little shade. PLEASE be sure to BRING plenty of WATER (at least 3 liters … water check will be done) as well as food/snacks.

Hiking Difficulty: Level 5 (details)

Meeting Location: Bailey Canyon Park
from the 210 East, Take exit 30B towards Rosemead Blvd N/Michillinda Ave, Take the 1st left onto S Michillinda Ave, Turn right onto W Sierra Madre Blvd, Turn left onto N Lima St, Continue onto W Carter Ave
Destination will be on the right
Bailey Canyon Park
451 W. Carter Ave, Sierra Madre, CA 91024
(34.170931,-118.06058)

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony and Todd.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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Mt. Wilson Hike via Winter Creek

Hey Hiking Pacers,

As always, such a pleasure hiking with our group… We had chocolate ice cream bars and fruit bars at the peak… Thank you Julia and Todd for taking the heavy weight to the top… I am sure it was a good training for your future planned trips!!! Also,… someone, in our group, found out that water is excellent for removing stuck lips/tongue from a frozen fruit bar… hehehe
Also, the Dim Sum and various dishes we had after the hike were very delicious!!! thank you Frances for recommending a really good place to eat after the hike…

This week we are doing a hike to Mt. Wilson! Hope you can join us.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Wilson_%28California%29

Date and Time: Sunday, April 29, 2012, 7:00 AM sharp!!

Descriptions: 13.5 miles roundtrip with 3,800′ elevation gain/loss
Hiking Difficulty: Level 5 (details)

Meeting Location: Chantry Flats Recreation Area
From the 210 freeway, exit at Santa Anita and continue North on Santa Anita about 4.8 miles (it becomes a winding mountain road that ends at the parking lot). Our group will meet down by the large gate next to the bathrooms. (Lon: 34.195687 Lat: -118.022432)

*Remember there is no cell service in this area*

*Adventure Pass is needed for each parked vehicle in this area. The National Forest Adventure Pass is a requirement by the US Forest Service for vehicles parked within certain recreation sites and areas in the forest. You can purchase either a day pass for $5.00 or an annual pass for $30.00. For more information on the Adventure Pass, please visit the US Forest Service website. To search for a local vendor to purchase a pass, please click here.

See you all on Sunday morning!!

Your Leaders,
Dr. Kevin, Debbie, Matt, Julia, Tony and Todd.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk! Leash your dogs, beware of snakes, poison oak, ticks, sunburns, and stay with the group at all times. Responsible and well prepared hikers always bring at least 3 liters of water, food, first-aid kit, and wear appropriate hiking/trail shoes. If you are not sure which way to go on the trail, wait and ask one of the leaders. Each hiker is fully responsible for his/herself while hiking in the great outdoors, including the responsibility for paying any bills related to rescue efforts or medical care. This is a free club operated by volunteers, no one is liable for any other person.

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