What we’re about
Fitness-first, SoCal-based, community-focused, and challenging by design.
From canyon climbs to rugged ridgelines, we treat Southern California’s parks as our gym. Our hikes are long, challenging, and purposeful—built to complement strength training, running, and other fitness routines. We don’t just cover miles—we train, grow, and build grit together.
We’re a community of fitness-minded hikers who thrive on effort and camaraderie. Most of our routes range 9–13 miles with 1,500–2,000+ ft of elevation, moving at a moderate-to-fast pace. What began as “Casual Hikes” shifted after the Big Fat Incline—since then, we’ve leaned into the grind and never looked back.
Who Should Join
- Intermediate to advanced hikers seeking a workout-level pace
- Strength trainers, runners, and endurance athletes who see hiking as part of their training
- Fit beginners ready to test their limits
- Anyone who values camaraderie, consistency, and the outdoors as much as fitness
What to Expect
- Strenuous hikes averaging 9–13 miles
- 1,500–2,000+ ft elevation gain
- Moderate to fast pace (we move with purpose, not for picnics)
- Sub-groups by pace—find your stride, or hike solo if needed
- Optional shorter, less intense routes led by co-organizers
- High energy, encouragement, and shared progress
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Boat Road Lookout via Willow Route | ~13–14 mi (~8 mi shorter option)Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Newport Beach, CA
Join us for a challenging day on the trails, climbing toward one of the most rewarding viewpoints in Crystal Cove and Laguna Coast Wilderness. We’ll start from Pacific Ridge Trailhead and make our way to Boat Road Lookout on a route that covers ~13–14 miles with ~2,600 ft of gain. Expect long climbs, technical footing, and big payoff views for those ready to put in the effort.
Watch our last Boat Road Lookout hike video for a preview of the views — the route was slightly different, but the lookout payoff is the same: Boat Road Lookout Hike Video
Full Route (Willow Route — Endurance Grind):
Lizard → Laurel → Willow climb → Bommer → descend Boat Road to the lookout and climb back up. We’ll take a break at the lookout to enjoy the views before making the push back up. Afterward, we’ll return via Bommer Ridge back to Pacific Ridge Trailhead. This route stacks a long, steady fire road climb (Willow) with the steep Boat Road climb — all about stamina and mental toughness.Shorter Option (~8 miles): The shorter route follows the same start as the long hike — Lizard → Laurel → Willow climb → Bommer. Instead of descending Boat Road to the lookout, you’ll stay on Bommer Ridge and return to the trailhead. This way you still get the big Willow climb without committing to the full 13–14 miles.
Disclaimer: Not So Casual Hikes are moderate to fast-paced, challenging outings designed for hikers in great shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Our organizers are volunteers — not guides — and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We don’t provide sweepers, and the group may not wait if you fall behind. You might finish with new friends or on your own — and either way, it's part of the journey. By signing up, you take full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation — and in return, you’ll find a supportive, like-minded community that thrives on grit, respect, and pushing the edge together. If that speaks to you — we’re glad you found us. Let’s move.
Meeting Details:
• Location: Pacific Ridge Trailhead, Ridge Park Road, Newport Beach, CA 92657
• Meeting Point: Ridge Park entrance (dead end of Ridge Park Road near the trailhead sign)
• Parking: Free street parking available
• Facilities: Restrooms available at the Willow Staging AreaHike Details:
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Distance / Elevation Gain:
– Full Loop: ~13–14 miles, ~2,600 ft cumulative gain
– Shorter Route: ~8 miles, returning on Bommer Ridge (skipping Boat Road descent)
• Duration: 4.5–5 hours for the full loop, 3–3.5 hours for the shorter route
• Map: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park Trail Map (CA Parks)Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.
Essentials:
• Traction hiking shoes
• Plenty of water (at least 2–3L; electrolytes recommended)
• Quick snacks / fuel
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or sun protectionAbout Crystal Cove / Laguna Coast:
These connected wilderness areas offer some of the most rugged climbs and stunning ocean views in Orange County. The Boat Road Lookout in particular is one of the most rewarding high points in the park, with sweeping coastal and canyon vistas.Important Safety Notice: Hiking carries risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions.
By joining, you accept full responsibility for your safety and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service, which include a liability release for organizers.
