All in Southern CA

1. 

   Fresh and Up

   It's official: Today's the first day of spring. Step up to it with these hikes to overlooks offering fresh perspectives.

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2. 

   Garden Mazes and Labyrinths

   Meditative, contemplative, and peaceful, labyrinths and garden mazes make a nice place to take a breather and clear your head. Here are three to discover in Los Angeles and Orange County.

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3. 

   Time Out in the Trees

   Sometimes it can be hard to see the forest for the trees. But what if you just head out for some tranquility among trees as a simple way to let nature nurture (and inspire) you. From an LA Tree Tour walk to an Arboretum with Sequoias, here are some places for branching out right now.

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4. 
   Sponsored

   2026-09-30

   Marquee Marin

   There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

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5. 

   Waterfalls, Wildflowers, Wildlife Hikes

   In that mid-stretch between winter and spring some of nature is showcasing its best bling. From a waterfall hike and bloomiful trails to wildlife sanctuaries and wild birds galore, here are some places to find nature’s shoulder season bounties.

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6. 

   Points for Perspective

   Points for perspective can come in many forms, whether you just want to wander and ponder in peace, stroll with friends in tranquil places, or gain a spectacular view on a peak hike. Here are a few outdoor ways to take a break and contemplate.

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7. 

   Romance On The Fly

   Caught without a Cupid plan this weekend? When the weather settles, here are a few ideas that might hit the sweet spot for a romantic outing.

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8. 

   See the Planets on Parade

   Look up. Are those planets on parade? Planetary alignments are stars of the night sky show for the next few weeks. Some planets can be seen with the naked eye, others require a telescope. From campsites and lodges to observatories and signature events in dark sky destinations, here are some suggestions for catching a celestial show. 

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9. 

   Beautiful Desert Hikes

   Has January felt like the long goodbye? Send it off with some desert perspectives, from a challenging hike offering a big point of view to a gem sunset spot and a trio of trails with enchanting scenery.

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10. 

    Desert Explorations

    Winter is a good time to go exploring in these three deserts, featuring a canyon climb hike with wall rings, a hulking natural bridge, and a premier sunset and stargazing spot.

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11. 

    Redding For You

    New Year, new adventures: Get Redding for a 2025 group getaway. This sunniest city in California is surrounded by Lassen, Shasta, and mountainous Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Here are a few itineraries that get you up-close animal encounters at Turtle Bay, bike riding by murals, urban food and art, even line dancing lessons at a family-friendly warehouse brew pub. Are you Redding?

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12. 

    Taking a Time Out

    Given the terrible devastations resulting from the firestorms, we're taking a pause on this week's issue for Southern California. Please stay safe, SoCal. Our thoughts are with all those affected by these fires. Thank you to our first responders and aid organizations.

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13. 

    Winter Wanders and Ponders

    Happy New Year! Take a little time out this winter for walks of wonders, and wonderings. Here are some peaceful hikes to do in beautiful nature respites.

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14. 

    Top of the Year!

    There were a lot of interesting and fun things to do outside in 2024, but these outdoor pursuits had a little extra zest. Here are the top 10 stories of the year. Wishing you and yours all the best as we close out the holiday season. See you in 2025!

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15. 
    Sponsored

    2026-09-30

    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

    View
16. 

    Make Santa Jealous Hikes and Bike Rides

    Happy holidays to all, and to all a good beach hike ... or bike! If the weather outside isn't frightful, head to Santa's favorite place for Vitamin D with these three less-known beach hike and bike rides.

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17. 

    Spirited Away Hikes

    With the holidays in full gear, add some festive fun to your next hike. From Big Bear to Cherry Valley, here are three places to enjoy hikes with big views, wildlife, and a little peace and quiet. They’re also near to towns, farms, stores, and food spots that are fully in the spirit!

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18. 

    Short Sunset Hikes for the Holidays

    Shorter days and crisper air do bring a bonus: late day hikes can be beautiful thanks to the sun's golden touch. These three hikes are beautiful, short, and sunset sweet.

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19. 

    Fresh Air Ahead

    Oh, fancy meeting you here! Looking for some fresh air? We like these lovely hikes that'll have you back in time for pumpkin pie.

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20. 

    Reno Tahoe Care Package

    This season give someone (and yourself!) the ultimate care package. Experience Reno Tahoe in a whole new light. This Biggest Little City in the World combines tranquility in mountainous nature with sizzling entertainment, vibrant art, and a stellar food and drink culture. It’s where sunset hikes and soothing natural hot springs intersect with disco tubing and fireside après. And then there’s this giant indoor Ferris wheel….

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21. 

    Fall Reset

    Ready, set, ready for a fall reset? Take a breather on these three fall-filling hikes.

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22. 

    Waterside Walks

    Water, walking, waterside walking…take it easy and catch your breath on these tranquil strolls.

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