Skip to content
Author
 Hikers

Photo by Mark Rightmire/The Orange County Register

T

he dog days of summer are in full swing and the pungent aromas of grilled hot dogs and burgers hang over many backyards. Here in the Southland, it’s hard not to enjoy the long summer days and warm nights. The envious weather we so greedily hoard here in Southern California is ideal for spending time outdoors, and with as many parks and preserves as sunny summer days, that is not a difficult proposition. So put down the grill tongs, lace up those hiking shoes and put that Land Rover to good use as you explore the natural beauty right in your own backyard.

Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride
Aug. 3, 8-11 a.m.
Follow volunteer mountain bike trail assistants Tito Fuentes and Dave Ross as they lead you along a breathtaking 13-mile tour of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park’s rough terrains and stunning ocean and canyon views. Bring your helmet and meet at the park’s Big Bend Staging Area. Free event, $3 parking
RSVP at: (949) 923-2235

Astronomy Program
Aug. 9, sundown to 10 p.m.
Stretch out under the moonlight at Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park in Coto de Caza as members of the OC Astronomers point out Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. Perfect for families or those looking to start one. Free event, $3 parking
Info: (949) 923-2265

Habitat Hop
Aug. 23, 8-11 a.m.
The natural splendor of Laguna’s coastal hills is showcased along this 2-mile route through the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Volunteer naturalists Penny Lewis and Annie Stoeckmann will be on hand to provide details about the diverse scenery and wildlife. Hoppers should meet at the James Dilley Preserve. Make sure to bring water, sunscreen, proper attire, and a love for natural beauty. Free event, $3 parking
RSVP at: (949) 923-2235

Cultural Resource Hike
Aug. 30, 8-10 a.m.
This two-hour hike will take brave patrons up Sycamore Trail to Serrano Ridge and back down while introducing them to various plants along the way that Native Americans once used. OC Parks Ranger Jacky Velasquez and volunteer naturalist Greg Wall will lead the 2.8-mile expedition through the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Due to the rigorous nature of the hike, children are not allowed. Hikers should meet at the Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area and should be equipped with water, sunscreen, proper attire, and any medication that might be needed. $2 per person; $3 parking
Info: (949) 923-2235

Family Fun Walk
Aug. 31, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Bring the whole family along for a relaxing experience at the Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center in Newport Beach as guided walks unveil the natural history and beauty of Upper Newport Bay. Free event and parking
RSVP at: (949) 923-2275 or e-mail the center at unbic@ocparks.com

Fitness Hike
Every Monday in August, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Watch the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park become a blur as you briskly stride through a 3.5-mile hike with volunteer naturalists Norm Lacoucierge and Gigi Logan. The fast pace is designed to make your heart pump and your muscles flex, so this is an adults-only activity. Hikers should meet at the James Dilley preserve, on the east side of Laguna Canyon Road. Remember to bring water, sunscreen, appropriate attire, and any medications you may need. Free event, $3 parking
Info: (949) 923-2235; www.ocparks.com/lagunacoast/default.asp?Show=LocationHours for directions to the meeting site

Saturday Night Campfire Program
Every Saturday in August/September, 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano hosts this weekly one-hour program for campers of all ages. The program features slide shows, live animals, poetry, singing, theatrical skits, and animal artifacts including skulls and skins. A more wholesome summer family outing there never was. Free event, but it is limited to overnight guests of the park only.
Info: (949) 923-2210

Saturday Morning Nature Walk
Every Saturday in August/September, 9-10 a.m.
All ages are welcome on this leisurely 1.5-mile stroll through O’Neill Regional Park in Trabuco Canyon as rangers and naturalists point out diverse plant communities and local wildlife. Walkers should gather at the Nature Center amphitheater before departing. Free event; $5 parking
Info: (949) 923-2260 (Walk may be canceled due to rain, so call first.)

Sunday Morning Nature Walk
Every Sunday in August/September, 8:30- 9:30 a.m.
Take a relaxing 1-mile trek through Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano as park rangers describe local plant and wildlife along the way. Walks begin every Sunday at the old windmill. Free event and parking
Info: (949) 923-2210