Mt. McCoy to the Cross and back WEEKLY HIKE (Simi Valley)

DESCRIPTION OF HIKE: Moderate 3 miles RT with 675’ of elevation gain/loss. We will hike up via a series of switchbacks to an isolated knoll in a 200-acre open space region at the western end of Simi Valley. At the summit (1,325') there is a white cross, erected in 1941 and a 360-degree view including Sinaloa Lake, Wood Ranch, the Bard Reservoir, the Simi Hills, and the Santa Susana Mountains. We’ll return the way we came. Hike Leader: Mike Kuhn On the western end of Simi Valley, Mt. McCoy is known as the hill with the large cross at the top. From the top of Mt. McCoy, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in every direction, including views of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Wood Ranch, Old Boney Mountain and the Channel Islands (weather permitting). Cut under the direction of the Rancho Simi Trail Blazers in 1997, the trail leading the top is 1.5 miles long and climbs 675 feet. It contains switchbacks surrounded by coastal sage scrub, chaparral and other vegetation. This is a mild hike and is great for all ages. From the top, there is a dirt track extending south toward the Presidential Library as well as a dirt trail extending north, down the mountain, to connect with Tierra Rejada Road. The Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District owns 200 acres surrounding Mt. McCoy. Well behaved, leashed dogs are always welcome. Note: Hike canceled on holidays, if it rains, or if there is a Red Flag Warning in place. PREPAREDNESS: Bring 2-3 liters/quarts of water (or other suitable liquid) and lunch/snack. Wear appropriate footwear (preferably hiking boots) and be prepared for bright sunlight (sunglasses), heat (layers of clothing), and/or precipitation (rain gear). Hiking pole(s) and a camera might come in handy. NOTE: At the beginning of each outing you will be required to read and sign a liability release form (a sign-in sheet). DIRECTIONS TO THE STARTING POINT OF THE HIKE: Take Hwy 118 to the Madera Road exit in Simi Valley. Head south 1.4 miles on Madera Road to just before its intersection with Royal Avenue (there’s a traffic light at the intersection). Turn left (east) into the strip mall parking lot in the northeast quadrant of the Madera Road/Royal Avenue intersection and park near the Donut Delite store. Wait for the hiking leader(s). NOTE: This will be the starting point of the hike because there is very little parking space at the Mt. McCoy Trail trailhead (and the trailhead is within a short walking distance of our starting point near Donut Delite). DISCLAIMER: The organizer(s) or leader(s) take no responsibility and will not be held responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur during any Rancho Simi Trail Blazers Club (RSTB) hike/outing. These events can be inherently dangerous and accidents will happen. By participating voluntarily you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being.