Ready to blaze a trail?

The Rancho Simi Trail Blazers was formed by the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District to help with the design and planning of the trail systems in the hills above Simi Valley.

Volunteers build and maintain trails, conduct outdoor education sessions and lead organized hikes on a regular basis. Trail blazers are knowledgeable about local plant identification, the area's natural history and the history of Simi Valley. New volunteers are always welcomed.

Public hikes are: 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at Long Canyon Trail (3 mile), 6 p.m. every Thursday at Chumash Trail (5.2 mile) and 5 p.m. every Sunday at Rocky Peak Trail (5 mile). Some Saturday morning hikes are also offered.

To arrange a group outdoor education event, hike or trail maintenance project, call Colleen Janssen at (805) 584-4453.

National Trails Day will be from 7 am. until noon Sat., June 3. Trail project locations will be announced. Tools will be provided. Volunteers should wear clothing suitable for outdoor weather and working and bring a hat, water, lunch, snacks, sun screen, gloves, sunglasses and trail boots.

For more information on events, starting locations for hikes, or to volunteer as a trail blazer, call (805) 584-4400.