Hike Reviews

Hiking Santiago Oaks Regional Park to Irvine Regional Park — The Short Loop

February 14, 2012
Thumbnail image for Hiking Santiago Oaks Regional Park to Irvine Regional Park — The Short Loop

A relatively easy 5 mile hike between Santiago Oaks and Irvine Regional Parks, two of our favorites. Hot in the summer, but great wildflowers in spring.

Read the full article →

A Long Walk on the Beach — El Capitan to Refugio in Santa Barbara

January 13, 2012
Thumbnail image for A Long Walk on the Beach — El Capitan to Refugio in Santa Barbara

A great walk or hike along the beach and bluffs between El Capitan and Refugio State Beaches in Santa Barbara. 6 miles round-trip with stunning views.

Read the full article →

Our favorite hikes of 2011

January 4, 2012
Thumbnail image for Our favorite hikes of 2011

On December 30th, Jeff and I met (slightly surpassing) our goal to hike 200 miles in 2011. We have trekked through some pretty spectacular scenery this past year, all of varying difficulty, topography, climates and ecosystems. These stand out as our absolute favorites of 2011.

Read the full article →

Hiking the Seven Falls Trail in Santa Barbara

December 20, 2011
Thumbnail image for Hiking the Seven Falls Trail in Santa Barbara

Seven Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Santa Barbara, and for good reason–the series of falls and pools make it a scenic place to swim or relax on a sunny rock.

Read the full article →

Powder Canyon in Rowland Heights: A short, scenic hike in the middle of everywhere!

December 2, 2011
Thumbnail image for Powder Canyon in Rowland Heights:  A short, scenic hike in the middle of everywhere!

Powder Canyon in the hills between Whittier, Puente, and Brea, is a short and scenic hike in an urban setting with a wilderness feel that is great on a cool, crisp day.

Read the full article →

Stoddard Peak — Beautiful Fall foliage hiking in Southern California

November 27, 2011
Thumbnail image for Stoddard Peak — Beautiful Fall foliage hiking in Southern California

Stoddard Peak below Mount Baldy is a nice hike on any cool, clear day, but it is especially nice during the fall, when the colors are great!

Read the full article →

Exploring the Smokies: Newfound Gap Road to the Appalachian Trail and Clingman’s Dome

November 20, 2011
Thumbnail image for Exploring the Smokies: Newfound Gap Road to the Appalachian Trail and Clingman’s Dome

If you are visiting Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingman’s Dome and the Appalachian Trail are two must-see day hikes along Newfound Gap Road.

Read the full article →

Laurel Falls: A short scenic family-friendly hike in the Smokies

November 14, 2011
Thumbnail image for Laurel Falls: A short scenic family-friendly hike in the Smokies

Although one of the most popular and crowded hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this short 2.6 mile scenic hike is worth the crowds.

Read the full article →

Celebrating 5 years of the Irvine Ranch as a National Natural Landmark with a private tour to Limestone Canyon and the Sinks

October 10, 2011
Thumbnail image for Celebrating 5 years of the Irvine Ranch as a National Natural Landmark with a private tour to Limestone Canyon and the Sinks

The 9.9 mile loop we took on this bloggers’ tour would make an excellent trail to hike or bike to see the key highlights of Limestone Canyon Wilderness Area.

Read the full article →

Exploring Mammoth: Hiking to Devil’s Postpile and Rainbow Falls

August 28, 2011
Thumbnail image for Exploring Mammoth: Hiking to Devil’s Postpile and Rainbow Falls

Devil’s Postpile to Rainbow Falls is the classic Mammoth area hike, featuring waterfalls, wildflowers and cool volcanic geological features. If you only have time for one hike, this is the one to do.

Read the full article →

Exploring Mammoth: Hiking to the Consolidated Gold Mine and Heart Lake

August 25, 2011
Thumbnail image for Exploring Mammoth: Hiking to the Consolidated Gold Mine and Heart Lake

A super short, scenic, kid and dog-friendly hike near Mammoth to an abandoned gold mine and a spectacular mountain lake.

Read the full article →

Hiking Mt. San Jacinto: From the Palm Springs Tram to the Summit

August 4, 2011
Thumbnail image for Hiking Mt. San Jacinto: From the Palm Springs Tram to the Summit

A great 10 mile hike to Mount San Jacinto, the second highest peak in Southern California. It’s not easy, but achievable for anyone in decent condition.

Read the full article →

Exploring Mammoth: A short hike to Inyo Craters

July 31, 2011
Thumbnail image for Exploring Mammoth: A short hike to Inyo Craters

An easy short scenic 1.25 mile hike to two volcanic craters and lakes located just outside of Mammoth Lakes.

Read the full article →