[View from the trail, HikingGuy.com]

Friday, August 25th at 5:45 PM

While it’s been a hot, and unusually muggy July in SoCal, we can still plan to get out and enjoy the end Summer!  So come join your fellow Cornellians for a relaxing sunset hike in the Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park.  This trail is easily accessible, with a mellow, easy walk among oak trees and open chaparral with its end in a smooth red rock canyon like you’d see in Utah (but unique to Orange County).  Sunset is a great time to do this hike because the setting sun lights up the exposed sandstone red rocks, imbuing them with even more color.  It’s the perfect two hour hike for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels!

Gather family and friends, RSVP with Harris Hunt (hhhunt@me.com), and we’ll see you there!

Start Time: Arrive at the trailhead by 5:30 PM, depart promptly at 5:45 PM.

End Time: We expect to be back to the trailhead by 7:45 to 8:00 PM (just after Sunset).

Meeting Location: We will meet at the park entrance located at Portola Parkway and Market Place in Foothill Ranch.

If you are using a GPS, search for:  26701 Portola Parkway, Foothill Ranch, CA  92610

Keep in mind that there is limited fee-based parking at the trailhead, while there is additional parking next door (Ralph’s Shopping Center) or across the street.

OC Parks Website:  http://www.ocparks.com/parks/whiting/

Distance: 2.1 miles one way / 4.2 miles round-trip

Duration: Approximately 2.0 hours, at a leisurely pace

Route: Borrego Canyon Trail to Red Rock Canyon trail.  Return.

Essentials:
Shoes with good traction
Water
Snacks
Sun protection: sunblock, visor, hat
Camera (you never know what you might see!)
No dogs allowed
No bikes allowed

Email Harris Hunt (hhhunt@me.com), Cornell Class of ‘83, to RSVP or if you have any questions.  In the subject, include “CAAOC Sunset Hike.”   In the body, include your name, Cornell class, and any guests you will be bringing.  Thanks!

See you there!

Hiking is a rewarding and pleasant activity in nature, but there are certain dangers you should be aware of. Those include, but are not limited to, trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, and possible unpleasant interactions with mountain lions, coyotes, snakes, and/or ticks. By signing up for this event, you agree to hold harmless the hike organizer, assistant organizers, and other participants for any injuries sustained during this hike.
You acknowledge that we are not professionals.
You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety.