Dreaded Hill & Billy Goat at Whiting Ranch Hike (Level 2/2+ Moderate Pace)

🌲Dreaded Hill Trail Sneak Peek!🌲
🥾 Billy Goat Trail Sneak Peek! 🥾

This is an intermediate level hike designed for hikers seeking a solid workout. Come explore with us the 6.8-mile loop trail located near Foothill Ranch, CA.

Details:

• Meeting Place: Parking lot adjacent to Starbucks-Wahoo’s.
• Meeting Time: 7:30 AM (Expect the hike to last approximately 3–3.5 hours).
• General Rating/Difficulty: Level 2/2+ (Moderate Pace for distance, elevation, and pace.
• Distance/Elevation/Duration: Level 2/2+ Estimate: 6.5 - 7 miles, 1250+- ft gain, and ~3–3.5 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 be starting on a flat trail for approximately 1.5 miles. The workout kicks off as we ascend Dreaded Hill, exploring trails like four Corners, Billy Goat, Cactus Hill, Sage, Serrano Cow, and returning to the trailhead and parking lot via Serrano.

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

Directions: If traveling south on Fwy 405 or 5, exit Bake Pkwy, turn left on Bake Pkwy, and continue for about 4.5 - 5 miles. Turn right at Portola and right at the light of Glenn Ranch (park at the Starbucks coffee parking). For those heading north on 5, consider exiting at Lake Forest and proceed toward Foothill Ranch, following similar directions as mentioned above.

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.