All in Southern CA
Down by the Sea
She may sell seashells by the seashore, but where does she hike and bike? By the sea, of course! These seaside strolls and rolls are stupendously spectacular.
VIEWHidden Canyon Hikes
Arizona and Utah get all the attention for canyons and astounding rock formations, but Southern California has a few secret ones to hike among or drop into—with the help of a ladder. And they’re not too far away!
VIEWHow to Lose the Crowds in National Parks
A magical thing happens when you hike just a mile or two from trailheads in popular national parks: Crowds begin to disappear. Even better, go backpacking to really have solitude. These trips in Yosemite, Zion, Point Reyes, and Channel Islands are out-of-office adventure havens.
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Sublime San Juan Islands
Well, well, this wellness action plan takes you to the San Juan Islands! Easily reached by ferry yet worlds away in tranquility and unique adventures, this Washington State jewel of the Salish Sea nurtures through nature.
View Trails Less Traveled
Hooray, outside is awesome and everyone now seems to know it. The challenge? Trails are a little crowded this summer. Where can you get a little space? These five hiking spots in LA County are often overlooked or under-traveled in favor of more popular nearby options.
VIEWBeer Hikes
Hike, then beer? We’ve brewed up some summer adventures where all trails lead to beer(s)! These three routes have plenty of great vistas, beaches, and forest features, followed by nearby brewpubs for refreshing your spirits, and quenching your post-hike thirst.
VIEWWater Hikes
Summer in SoCal—hot, and dry right now, due to drought. Fortunately, LA’s still got some treasured and less-known waterworks for chilling out. Here are three to visit and appreciate.
VIEWNo Reservations Backpacking and Camping
No reservation? No problem! Well, at least if you have a few of these tips on camping and backpacking in California. From first-come, first-served camping, to no quotas on wilderness backpacking, here are three places to go for summer.
VIEWFrom Sea to Summit
America's birthday is coming in hot. These summer classic adventures go from the sea to summits: Hike-in beaches, mellow redwood wanders (in SoCal), and panoramic peak hikes await. Go fourth the great outdoors!
VIEWAdVentura Time!
Kick off the official start of the season with a big adVentura. Ventura pops with summer delights like a riverside bike trail to Ojai, plus lakeside hiking, camping, boating, and epic disc golf too.
VIEWOutdoor Education
Among the best places to enjoy art, sculptures, and botanical gardens? College campuses during summer are lovely places to stroll, observe natural beauty and creative art outdoors, plus find surprises like a nearby beach. Here are a few to see.
VIEWLake Hikes
Water is a scarce resource these days. Pay homage to it and enjoy the precious view hiking beside these lovely lakes and reservoirs in North San Diego County.
VIEWHidden Long Beach
Think you know Long Beach? We’ve got some twists for you! Visit its less-known regional park, take a mural art walk beyond the beach, and double up on water attractions combining two urban lagoons on a local hike. Go Long!
VIEWSummer Kick-Off Hikes
The unofficial start of summer means just one thing: official summer hikes! Blaze your trails from Nevada to LA.
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Sublime San Juan Islands
Well, well, this wellness action plan takes you to the San Juan Islands! Easily reached by ferry yet worlds away in tranquility and unique adventures, this Washington State jewel of the Salish Sea nurtures through nature.
View Bright Lights and the Great Outdoors
Is there a city with easier access to the great outdoors than Reno? In 15 minutes you can be on hiking trails to waterfalls and big Sierra views. Or right in town you can enjoy walks and bike rides beside the Truckee River, which cuts right through downtown Reno.
VIEWLookout for Panoramas!
Lookout hikes are popular because the looking out from them looks really good! And these three viewtiful lookouts are no exception. Summit them before summer and enjoy the panoramas.
VIEWTune in to Antelope Valley
Antelope Valley is most famous for its poppy season, but there's a lot more to see and do here: hiking among Joshua trees, wine and beer tasting, and driving the unique Musical Road. Tune in!
VIEWNature Therapy
When was the last time your prescription read "explore a lavender labyrinth" or "hike to a summit for sunset." Indeed, Sonoma County is just the dose of wellness and outdoors the doctor ordered.
VIEWSecret Canyon Hikes
Shhh, find some solitude and seriously good views in north San Fernando Valley, where three hikes feature everything from striking rock formations to redwoods.
VIEWSpringspiring Hikes in SoCal!
Secret canyons, Garden of the Gods, vintage Hollywood, and a historic bridge to a beautiful walk … Here are five fun ways to inspire some spring in your step.
VIEWWalk, Wine, Repeat
Just a few hours from Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County’s wine country is fruitful with vineyards and small towns with distinct character. Also bountiful? The outdoors! Explore Lake Cachuma, hike Lovers Loop in Los Olivos, and do a self-guided walk in Solvang. Wineries included!
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The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!
Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).
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