Piedra Blanca Backpacking Trip

Description

WHERE:  We will travel north of Ojai to the Piedra Blanca Trailhead in the Sespe Wilderness.  The hike will follow the Gene Marshall – Piedra Blanca Trail, known for its spectular rock formations.  We will camp at either the Piedra Blanca or Twin Forks Trail Camp, both located on Piedra Blanca Creek.

DIFFICULTY:  This hike is about 3.25 miles each way, with an elevation gain of 500-600 feet.  This backpack trip is on the easy side of intermediate – so everyone is welcome.  New backpackers are encouraged to attend, provided they come prepared with proper backpacking gear.  We will take the hike slow and easy.

MEET:  At Scout House at 6:30 AM on Saturday, July 10.  We will divide troop gear and food then depart for the trailhead.  The trip to the trailhead is about 2 hours.  We should return to the trailhead Sunday morning by 10:30 am, and should be home in the early afternoon (depending on whether we stop for lunch on the way home). 

MEALS:  Eat a big breakfast on Saturday morning before the trip.  Otherwise you may bonk!  Bonking is not cool, it hurts.  Don’t bonk! Bring your own trail lunch for Saturday, dinner will be provided Saturday night (Philmont style), bring your own breakfast bars, instant oatmeal, cocoa for Sunday’s breakfast.  Saturday’s dinner will be prepared by individual crews.  Crews will be announced a day or two before the trip by email.

SPECIAL NOTE:  There is normally a larger stream crossing at the beginning of the hike.  We recommend you bring water shoes or strong flip-flops to make the water crossing.  Even an old pair of sneakers works, but you will need to bring something you don’t mind getting wet.