Danielson Monument - potluck hike (start 3:00PM)

**[6.5 miles, 1300' gain, intermediate](https://www.dropbox.com/s/fqmdia20mn3p90m/How%20hard%20is%20this%20hike.pdf?dl=0)**
**This hike is longer and harder than our regular hikes.**
**We start at 3:00PM to make the most of the sunlight time.**

Beautiful spring is here!
Let's enjoy hiking to the Danielson Monument in the Boney Mountain Wilderness, potluck, and "Peace, Love and Joy"!

**Potluck Social Event**
We'll have our typical **[snack-share](https://www.dropbox.com/s/zlfjtt05uu2bhxn/Snack%20and%20Beverage%20Share.pdf?dl=0) social event at the top** for 60-90 minutes before heading back the way we came. Please bring some food and drink to share. If your item requires plates or utensils (ex: rice, macaroni salad, etc.), please bring them. **You may wish to bring your own cup, plate, and utensils in case there aren't any.**

**You will see several plants of note:**

***[Tree Tobacco](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/1/a/highres_502857626.jpeg)***
The Cahuilla Indians used the leaves interchangeably with other tobacco species in hunting rituals and as a poultice to treat swellings, bruises, cuts, wounds, boils, sores, inflamed throat, and swollen glands. It does not contain nicotine.

It contains anabasine, a similar compound, which is highly toxic to humans and animals. It is more toxic than nicotine. Ingestion of the leaves can be fatal. It is being investigated for use as a biofuel. All parts of this plant are toxic. Used as an insecticide. Do not smoke.

***[Elderberry](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/1/1/b/highres_502857627.jpeg)***
The blue or purple berries are gathered and made into elderberry wine, jam, syrup, and pies. The entire flower cluster can be dipped in batter and fried while petals can be eaten raw or made into a fragrant and tasty tea. Spit out the seeds. Elderflower water is also used in perfumes and sweets.

Most agree that they do need to be cooked if you are going to eat more than just a few out of hand. That’s because they have a small amount of cyanide producing glycosides, which are released upon digestion. Fully ripe black berries are not toxic and you can eat as many as you like. Boiling or baking takes care of any “toxic” issue as does drying raw berries.

Hike Distance: 6.5 miles
Gain: 1300'
Difficulty: [Intermediate](https://www.dropbox.com/s/fqmdia20mn3p90m/How%20hard%20is%20this%20hike.pdf?dl=0)
Shape: Out and back.
Pace: approx. 2.0 mph.
Trail Type: Double track, single track.
Duration: 5 hours, 3 for just the hike part.
Dogs: Not allowed in the state park.
Restrooms: No
Drinking Fountains: No.
Parking: Free along the street.

**Meet at: Wendy Trail Head**
4128 Potrero Rd
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Where S. Wendy Dr. ends at Potrero Rd.

**What to bring:**
1 liter of water for every 3 miles.
Hiking shoes/boots. Not required, but recommended.
Flashlight or headlamp.
Sunscreen and/or hat as needed.
[Snacks and/or beverages to share](https://www.dropbox.com/s/zlfjtt05uu2bhxn/Snack%20and%20Beverage%20Share.pdf?dl=0)

**[FAQ](https://www.dropbox.com/s/6t8h0py6uh5lnxl/Frequently%20Asked%20Questions.pdf?dl=0)**
**[Hiking Plus Page Links](https://www.dropbox.com/s/8zrjbo5ohs88r8e/Hiking%20Plus%20Page%20Links.pdf?dl=0)**
**[Disclaimer / Release of Liability](https://www.dropbox.com/s/i44d3o1g7fj3lo7/Is%20Hiking%20Dangerous.pdf?dl=0)**