Southern California Hikes

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

February 14, 2012
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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.

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Our favorite hikes of 2011

January 4, 2012
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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.

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Hiking the Seven Falls Trail in Santa Barbara

December 20, 2011
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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.

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

December 2, 2011
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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.

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Stoddard Peak — Beautiful Fall foliage hiking in Southern California

November 27, 2011
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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!

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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
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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.

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

August 4, 2011
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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.

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Exploring Mammoth: A short hike to Inyo Craters

July 31, 2011
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An easy short scenic 1.25 mile hike to two volcanic craters and lakes located just outside of Mammoth Lakes.

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Exploring Mammoth: Inyo National Forest Earthquake Fault walking trail

July 30, 2011
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This super short easy scenic walking trail just outside of Mammoth provides a close up look at a deep growing fissure being cut into the earth through tectonic activity.

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Hiking Ice House Canyon to Timber Mountain via Ice House Canyon Trail – Chapman Trail

July 21, 2011
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Ice House Canyon is a beautiful hike, and if you do the full loop we did, has a tremendous variety of terrain and scenery. If you’re in halfway decent shape, it’s a great trail!

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Hiking Mount Baldy via the Devil’s Backbone

July 15, 2011
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A great hike to a great Southern California peak. This strenuous (6.3 mile, 2,300 ft elevation gain) hike to the the top of Mt Baldy it totally worth it.

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West Horsethief Canyon to Trabuco Peak: Third highest peak in the Santa Ana Mountains

June 30, 2011
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The hike to Trabuco Peak via Horsethief Canyon Trail has something for everyone. Shaded and cool at the bottom, but a serious climb at the top! Not the most scenic peak we’ve climbed, but the trail along the creek is beautiful, and standing on top of a new peak always gives you a sense of accomplishment.

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Peters Canyon East Ridge View Trail to Peters Canyon Trail Loop — A bit of nature on the edge of town

June 25, 2011
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If you don’t have time to get out to the wilderness, but hate boring walks around the block, Peters Canyon Regional Park is a great alternative!

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