Our original choice for today's trail closed down (again), but serendipity sent Barbara and me on this truly unusual and beautiful trek through Oak Canyon near the Santa Susana Pass in Simi Valley. Originally home of the pre-colonial Ventureño Chumash and Fernandeno Tataviani, Simi is derived from the Chumash word Shimiyi which refers to the familiar stringy, thread-like clouds like the ones that lingered above the mountains this morning. It appears that the miles of hiking trails circling above and around the apparent special district below are part of the recreation for a planned community of identical home plans and condos below in the basin. The mountains were always here—but the trails we hiked this morning looked meticulously cared for and, except for a few trail sections damaged by recent rains, made for a moderately easy hike with enough ups and downs to keep the heart rate high, but not slamming. The hike is a lasso that starts with a single trail going in that splits into a counterclockwise loop with a brief detour into Oak Canyon Community Park before returning to the wilds. AllTrails warned of possible crowds on this popular trail for hikers, bikers, paws, and hooves but because we opted to hike in the mist we had all to ourselves this beautiful slice of nature getting dressed for spring. Thoroughly enjoyable hike in a part of LA County we're pretty sure you haven't explored yet. Do it!