Take a Hike!

It’s a perfect morning to increase your heart rate, awaken the senses and soak up some Vitamin D on the 4.5 mile hike on Little Sycamore Trail. Hikers checklist includes hat, worn in hiking shoe-boots, bandanna, water bottle with holster, sunglasses, and $3 for parking at the Nix Nature Center. This group of trail enthusiasts include knowledgeable guides like Norman (76 years young) and Paula Olson, Outreach Manager for Laguna Canyon Foundation. Dogs are only allowed on select trails for safety reasons. Dog waste not only harms the environment by releasing toxins but spooks the areas natural inhabitants (the same is true for orange or banana peels). Work up a sweat while chatting with like-minded adventurers while reaching several plateaus with sweeping views of the OC.

Laguna Canyon Foundation, who run the hikes, are an extension of OC Parks. The organization has transitioned from brokering land deals to focusing on restoration, trail work, education, public programs and advocacy of what is now 22,000 acres of protected space.

The volunteer staff lead 20 wilderness hikes per month which include fitness, flora & fauna, geology and yoga hikes. Family hikes take place the 1st Saturday of each month and with the exception of $3 parking, all hikes are free of charge.

Reservations are required. Info and sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. 949-923-2235.

Written by Lisa Farber, Owner and Publisher of Laguna Beach Vibe and LagunaNOW.com.