The Lower Holcomb Canyon hike requires some dexterity as you must boulder hop and be a little adventurous in creating your own trail. Depending on your fitness level and sense of adventure, you can make the hike loop around easily or explore some of the features of the canyon to extend your time outdoors.
Located in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, this 3.5-mile roundtrip trek is of moderate difficulty. You’ll break a sweat, but you’ll also be afforded views of Balanced Rock and Carlisle Canyon. The oak grove of Split Rock provides a shady area—perfect for setting up a picnic after your adventure.
The wilderness area of Laguna Beach offers a rare glimpse into seldom seen coastal canyons. Rocky terrain and steep bluffs make for stunning views and a workout that you can’t get at the gym. Come prepared with plenty of water as you walk through the acres of beautiful wildlife.
The Meysan Lakes trails are around Mount Whitney but do not lead to the famous peak. However, you can find some pretty strenuous hiking trails in the area, especially if you plan to visit all three lakes in one day. Check trail conditions and understand what you are getting into before you make your plans. The rewards of this rigorous hike are breathtaking.
The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most celebrated hikes, thanks to new and stunning views at every twist and turn. Although beginners can start on the trail, they likely won’t finish as the full hike can get take up to five hours. The higher you climb, the more strenuous it gets, which means that you can temper the hike according to your comfort and skill level. Earlier in the day tends to be better if you’re looking to avoid crowds.
]]>The Antelope Valley California Reserve is located in the high desert and relies on nature to create the amazing blooms that draw visitors from around the world each year to gaze in awe at the poppies and wildflowers that bloom. During the spring the area is filled with people taking a look at the fields or exploring single blossoms. The park is for day use and picnics, so you can bring a pack and explore the miles of trails that go through the blooms, but don’t veer off and risk crushing the flora. Nearby are other state parks, where you can find other types of flora and fauna to check out. Be sure to check in at the visitor center, which has a lot of information about the park as well as features artwork inspired by the flowers.
The Lancaster Museum of Art and History is a good way to learn about the original citizens of the valley as well as check out historical structures, local artists, and spend some time indoors. Lancaster’s weather tends to fluctuate between hot and cold so having a museum to step into can be a great relief. Museum hours vary depending on which building you check out so be sure to plan ahead.
Apollo Community Regional Park isn’t your typical neighborhood park. Fifty-four acres named after the Apollo 11 astronauts include three large stocked ponds for fishing. Walk around on the walking trails or enter one of the annual fishing derbies!
The Antelope Valley Winery features wines from local vineyards as well as exotic meats. Sign up for a tour or try a tasting. You can also pick up a picnic to enjoy in the poppy fields or other park. Call in advance for details, especially if you’re planning a trip with a large group.
There is almost always something going on at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds. Bridal shows, food fairs, bingo parties, and more are frequently at the fairgrounds. There are often events for kids, including book fairs, petting zoos, and more, and all events are held throughout the year, not just during poppy season. Stop by to check it out.
The Antelope Valley Mall is a spacious spot to shop. The mall features many of the biggest chain stores as well as a few local retailers in addition to holding shopping and makeup events. The movie theater at the mall is also a good place to spend a few hours relaxing between seeing the sights!
BeX Bar & Grill is a local gastropub with a casual vibe. Chill out with a beer from the selection on tap or indulge in weekend brunch before you head out to the poppy fields. Friendly service and a big selection helps ensure a good time and good grub.
The Modern Tearoom is an unexpected retreat from the heat. You’ll find salads, sandwiches, and tea but with a more laid-back vibe than a traditional tea service. Locals enjoy snacking between shopping.
A great taste of Cajun country in the desert, Crab N Spice is a fun way to get messy and indulge in a seafood spread. Try it for lunch or dinner and choose your own spices and seafood!
Gasoline & Coffee is a garage-themed coffee shop that is a perfect blend of swanky coffee and rough and tumble. Whether you like your coffee decaf or regular, you can find a basic cup of black alongside sweet treats and frozen blends.
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With over 11,200 acres including the park, Castaic Lake is Southern California’s largest reservoir formed by Castaic Dam in the beautiful Sierra Pelona Mountains. Open daily, except on Christmas Day, from sunrise to sunset, you’ll have no trouble finding something to do. Boating, fishing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, kayaking, and sailing are just a few of the activities that will delight water lovers Land lovers can enjoy picnics on the beach, hiking, horseback riding, and simply basking in nature. Vehicle entry fees, boat launch fees, and camping fees apply, so make sure to plan in advance.
Imagine flying across the water with the wind and water in your hair and heart pumping with excitement on your own one or two-person jet ski. That’s what you’ll experience when you go on a jet ski adventure between Marina del Rey and Paradise Cove in central California. Originally a salt marsh fed by fresh water from a nearby creek and a popular duck hunting area, the marina is now a harbor for pleasure craft and small boats.
To witness some of the most breathtaking beauty in California, make a stop at Big Bear Lake. The smooth, shimmering blue waters make for a perfect day on a jet ski. Don’t have your own? Don’t worry. Big Bear Marina boasts an impressive fleet, including WaveRunners. Rates range from $100-$130 per hour, depending on what time you decide to hit the waters. Make a stop in Big Bear Lake Village after a great day to experience the quaint shops, boutiques, and cute restaurants.
This location is truly paradise. Stop by Balboa Water Sports at Newport Beach Harbor, rent your ride, and jet ski the day away. According to the website, it doesn’t matter your level of experience, no matter what, “they are certain to treasure the experience that awaits them.” Reach up to 60 mph on the back of a Sea Doo, which can accommodate two riders.
Southern California offers some of the most breathtakingly beautiful sights in the country, and San Diego really is the crown jewel. To experience the area to its fullest, head to San Diego Bay Adventures. Here, you can rent jet skis for some of the most reasonable rates around—and a wetsuit is included! Take one of their several jet ski tours available, one of which is a “Sunset Tour.” This tour include dinner, and captivating sights.
]]>Between the towns of Eureka and Orick in Humboldt County is Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, home to a number of trails of varying difficulty. The Rhododendron Trail comes to life in the spring when the blossoms it is named for are in bloom. A favorite amongst photographers and artists, the trails flowers light up amongst spots of green in stunning natural light.
The Hollywood Sign that hangs above the city may not seem accessible, but intrepid hikers have discovered that you can get close to the historic letters by following the Hollyridge Trail. The Hollywood sign is a famous marker in movies and can be spotted on the freeway and city streets below. The hike is an example of California’s unique combination of urban and natural wonders.
The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest in California. The Slot hike is possibly the most famous in the region and while parking can be tricky, the result is well worth it. Unique rock formations have created what is informally known as Slot Canyon, with other-worldly beauty that makes for breathtaking photos and great memories.
Located on the least traveled parts of Route 66, Amboy Crater is actually one of the continent’s youngest volcanoes. You can hike along the rim and stare down into cavern, one of California’s amazing natural wonders. Along the way, you’ll spot stunning mountain ranges and some really old and beautiful scenery. Other trails lead to stunning geologic points of interest like Afton Canyon’s rainbow hues.
In the spring, the poppies bloom into life and lend brilliant colors to the soft rolling hills that make for easy hiking trails. The colors change daily and each season is a little different than the last, which brings back hikers year after year. The reserve is home to animal life and offers facilities such as picnic tables so that you can picnic before or after your hike and there’s also a center filled with information and paintings.
]]>Before you start your day of adventure, you must stop to check out Calico Ghost Town. This town is one of the few remaining in California, and not far from the Johnson Valley area. It can be a nice spot to stretch out your legs and relax before you hit the trails.
Before you hit the trails, fill your belly with a hearty meal at the Slash X Ranch Café. The Slash X Ranch is known for filling meals and also hosts events and fundraisers for off-roading enthusiasts. Open only on weekends for cold beer and hot food, Slash X is a decades-old family business known for their delicious chili cheese fries.
Johnson Valley is one of the best spots for off-roading in America and is local for much of Southern California. Johnson Valley hosts major off-roading events each year including the “King of the Hammer” competition. At the Johnson Valley community center, you can get maps of the off-roading area, which is very expansive and has welcomed families looking for off-roading adventures for years. You can camp at Johnson Valley, and millions of visitors do each year. Johnson Valley has a variety of terrain, from spots that resemble a rough lunar landscape and are rocky enough to rip metal off your vehicle, to canyons, washes, lakebeds and plenty of trails and offshoots.
After your day in the desert, head to the mountains. Big Bear isn’t far and is pretty easy to find after a day of exploring. Teddy Bear Restaurant is a home-style cash-only spot with a breakfast-all-day menu and a children’s menu. They’re open until 11 p.m. every day of the week.
Johnson Valley offers plenty of rural campgrounds, but if you want something a little more contemporary, then head up to the Lodge at Big Bear Lake. The rustic cabin set up has all the modern amenities and a prime location right on the edge of town. There’s even a sauna to soothe aching muscles after a long day on the trails.
]]>Griffith Park is the perfect spot for a family hike. The wilderness area features numerous different paths to take, including short loops. Take your pick and end up at a nature center. Or make your way to the famous observatory to learn about space and stars. There are also numerous vantage points that showcase the entire city through the trees. Make a day of it and have a picnic in a specially set area or take a stroll through the nearby zoo after a day observing wild animals. Other kid-friendly attractions include pony rides, a carousel, Travel Town and more.
Bring the kids along to the White Point Nature Preserve in San Pedro. The nature center provides an excellent starting point and resource for teaching kids about the importance of environmental protections. Trails go through the natural landscapes of California, offering occasional ocean views. Teach kids about flora and fauna as you explore some of the highlights of the nature preserve including paths, to tide pools filled with ocean dwelling creatures. Or take one of the many “easy” paths that even small kids can navigate in part on their own.
Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park have trails that showcase geological formations as well as archaeological and paleontological sites. Take a hike that goes through a historic point of interest from one of the Native American tribes in the area. You’ll find caves to explore, events and programs that cater to kids and adults, and much more. Spend a day or an hour to discover some of the beautiful lands and rocks in California. Be sure to bring sunscreen as well as cover ups to protect against the sun and brambling terrain.
You don’t have to climb Half Dome to appreciate the natural wonders of Yosemite. The Glacier Point hike is a short loop that makes it easy to cover as a family because you can carry or walk with young new hikers. Enjoy the view and experience being in one of the world’s most celebrated natural areas. You can also camp and drive to the hiking point or stay in Yosemite Village, depending on how rough and rugged you feel like being.
Thousand Oaks is a known as a family-friend suburb and one of the reasons is Wildwood Regional Park. All the kids that go to the local elementary schools spend a night in the wilderness area, learning about the wildlife in the area including rattlesnakes, coyotes and owls. Even before the exciting campout, you’ll find families heading to locally known highlights in the park, like the easy walk from the parking lot teepee or the park caves and waterfalls. If you find yourself wanting a hike between the crowded canyons of Los Angeles and the beaches of Santa Barbara, you can find easy trails in Wildwood.
]]>This 4,163 acre park is a perfect place to let your pup explore the beauty of nature. With 135 years worth of mining activities to discover, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the area’s past by exploring the remnants of the mining era.
This 366 acre nature reserve offers six miles of trails with elevation changes of around 500 feet, ensuring a great workout for both you and your pup. Your adventure awaits!
This 200 acre park is a great spot for those looking for an easy leisurely stroll with their pooch, as it’s relatively free of elevation changes. Find out why Glendora natives choose to bring their pups here!
This 3,464 acre park offers some spectacular views of Monterey Bay, as well as plenty of trails to choose from. The park is a great destination for those looking for a more challenging hike, as different trails offer various levels of difficulty for you and your four legged friends.
This park is the only “untouched” part of the peninsula range, making it an ideal spot to take in the breathtaking views of the South Bay. With plenty of trails to explore and some great picnic spots, you and your pup will be sure to have a great time.
The Ocean Trails Reserve offers both a great hiking spot, as well as restored or preserved habitat areas for the California gnatcatcher. Spend a day exploring what the Ocean Trails Reserve has to offer with your pup.
This 315 acre lake was closed to recreation for 91 years, so it’s sure to provide a peaceful and tranquil experience for both you and your pup.
This 160 acre park located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains offers plenty of trails to explore. It is a great spot for those looking to take in some spectacular views of Los Angeles, look out over the expanse with your dog and have an active day out!
This trail is a great option for more experienced hikers and canines, as the terrain is a bit more challenging than some of the other trails listed here. Safely, explore the wonder of Eagle Rock with your four legged friends or experienced hiking buddies.
This 128 acre park located near Laurel Canyon Boulevard is a popular destination for both hikers and dog walkers alike. With a large parking lot, restrooms, and a picnic area, Wilacre Park is a great spot for all looking to explore the great outdoors.
]]>The area between the mountains and Malibu Beach is filled with lots of trails that are perfect for exploring because they allow for a mix of running and hiking. Locals never get tired of exploring new routes, some of which are really long and best for experienced trail runners. Other areas are shorter and flatter and make for good training for beginners.
Runyon Canyon has a reputation for being a celebrity favorite, but it’s also popular with regular runners that love the feeling of being out in nature while enjoying stunning cityscape views. The canyon isn’t very big, but there are a variety of trails to take so that your run can be as short or long as you have stamina for.
Golden Gate Park has plenty of paved spots, grassy areas, and things to do and see, but what you may not know is that there are also dirt trails that are perfect for running. Many locals enjoy finding new paths to take and the view that is constantly changing from city to rural, all in the same park. Hit the trails and be prepared for changing terrain as some spots are rougher than others.
Toro County Park is the location of the Toro Trail Run event, but you can run the park at any time without the pressure of a race. There are over 20 miles of trails to discover and you can find smooth paths that go up and down, making it a prime spot for training or exploring. There is a fee to enter the park, so it may be best for weekend trips and training if you’re looking to mix up your regular routine.
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) follows the entire state of California and West Coast. Find a spot to start and then explore one of the best and most famous trail running spots in the world. PCT is a favorite with hikers and backpackers looking for new challenges but it also makes for good runs and hikes even just for the day. Be sure to use caution as the trail goes through rough terrain and may be subject to varying conditions.
]]>Ocotillo Wells has over 85,000 acres to explore. You can camp but be sure to check the website for the rules and the supplies that you can and can’t bring into the area. While fans love the Wild West, comforts like clean bathrooms stocked with everything you need are also appreciated. Spend the day or night to enjoy the natural beauty. And be sure to be respectful so that Ocotillo Wells can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Just miles from the Mexican border, Heber Dunes is a favorite for ATV riders and other off-road vehicles. You can’t camp but you can play in the dunes from dawn until dusk. Winding trails and different types of sand dunes mean that you’ll have plenty of space to explore for a day. You can also find classes on safety and rules of the off-road. You’ll also find community events and other activities that come up during holiday weekends and other fun things to do at Heber Dunes.
Hollister Hills is filled with various ranches to take out your ATV. Have a picnic or campout and enjoy panoramic views and amazing trails. The Upper Ranch sits on 800 acres and has about 24 miles of trails to explore. Watch out for wildlife and be cautious. The stunning views and few crowds make it a favorite spot to enjoy. Maps and clearly marked trails make it a place to experience nature safely.
As the third largest unit of California State Park’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, Hungry Valley is one of the more accessible SRVA spots for the city of Los Angles. Just a short ride north of the city off the I-5, Hungry Valley is an easy weekend getaway for when you need to get away but the kids are still in school. The vast variety of trails means that you can be a beginner or an experienced rider and find a trail or two to experience.
Located near Oroville, Clay Pit is a small but prime spot for riding motorcycles, ATVs and 4x4s. The pit is left over from the days of building the Oroville Dam. It’s a prime spot for beginners or teaching kids. There aren’t many jumps or different types of terrain, so it’s easier to get acclimated to the area.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>The Mojave Desert has many places to ride and it is a convenient day trip from many parts of Southern California. The Jawbone Canyon store can point out where to find great trails as well as help you with supplies like diesel and food for your ride. The Mojave is peaceful and inspirational so you can get some great photos and see some great things as you explore. Make sure to stay within the designated areas as you don’t want to cause harm to the fragile ecosystem there.
Stonyford has tons of trails to explore and be sure not to veer off the path or you’ll face serious fines. There are watering holes, steep trails, and plenty of beautiful sites to discover. Trails are marked and rated and even experienced riders will enjoy the challenge of some of the steeper and higher trails.
Catch a race or sign up to hit the track at Competitive Edge. You can also take a class or campout for a quick getaway. There are four tracks open to the public and you’ll find maps and information are easy to access. Tracks are nicely maintained and updated. It’s fun for all ages although waivers are required for minors.
The Perris Raceway offers a well-maintained flat track that is watered via hoses and kept nicely for the fans that visit the raceway throughout the year. There are jumps and the terrain is smooth and the spot has favorable reviews from riders. You can also catch or join a race or two.
The Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area is situated in the hills of Alameda. The surrounding nature is breathtaking, and the area boasts 1,300 acres of space to ride. The terrain varies, according to its website, with areas of dry rocky washes, rolling hills, and steep, rugged canyons.
]]>Clear Lake State Park has a long history in California as the site of historic Native American and early settlers. Clear Lake is a favorite spot for fishing and other water activities. You can find largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish in the lake and also explore hiking trails if you get tired of spending time on the water. Clear Lake has been named a favorite fishing spot by various publications.
Brannan Island is home to a variety of wildlife including waterfowl, otters, and a diverse array of fish. Fish species include striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, bluegill, perch, and bullhead. You can spend the day fishing or camp out on one of the available campgrounds. If you plan to camp out during the summer, then be sure to make a reservation because it’s a popular spot to camp and fish during the long days of summer.
Santa Monica Bay may seem like an unlikely fishing spot but it has a reputation for being a great spot to enjoy urban fishing. You can fish from select spots on the shore and there are even fishing classes available for beginners or those that want to learn more about fishing. It’s a perfect day spot so that you can lounge on the beach while you fish or rent a boat to take you around the bay and then stay in a swanky hotel in Santa Monica.
Shasta Lake offers fishing year-round, with different varieties filling the lake at different times of the year. You can rent a houseboat and fish day and night or take a small watercraft out on the water to try your luck. Be sure to buy a fishing license and you can rent gear at one of the helpful agencies that can provide you with everything you need to know about fishing in Lake Shasta.
Sure, Echo Park Lake is probably familiar from its many appearances in movies and television shows, but did you know that you can also fish in the park? It’s one of Los Angeles’s best-kept secrets but many parks with lakes are stocked by the city’s fish and game department. Whatever isn’t caught is handily devoured by waterfowl. Try your luck in a paddleboat.
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Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer.
Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.
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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.
Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.
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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.
Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.
Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.
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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.
The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the perfect spot for a first-time camping trip thanks to the amazingly supersized old growth redwood trees. You can hike from the forest to the oceans on a famous trail or try for something a little easier. Waterfalls, animals and cabins for rent complete the ease of an experience meant to be relaxing and memorable.
If you are looking for something a little more accessible, then Henry Cowell is the way to go. It’s said to be an easy hike to the campground and there are shorter trails and things for tiny legs to experience, while still being surrounded by towering redwood trees. Kids are sure to be further delighted by nearby Roaring Camp Railroad, which includes trains that run on steam engines. Great views for parents paired with activities for kids makes it a prime camping trip for getting away without getting away.
For parents that don’t want to bother with the hassle of tents and cookouts, the city of San Jose offers residents (and guests from other cities!) a chance to summer camp. There’s a camp store for forgotten items and fishing is available. You get to stay out under the stars and experience the beauty of the Sierra Mountains and Yosemite.
Both camping and fishing can be found at Lake Hemet. There are also cabins, opportunities for lake swimming, a water park and of course amazing views of the surrounding area. Lake Hemet tends to be a family vacation spot that is not too far from many cities and suburbs in Southern California, and offers plenty of activities so that nobody in the family gets bored. Many of California’s native-born celebrities have fond childhood memories of celebrating birthdays and holidays while camping at Lake Hemet.
Slightly north and west of Santa Monica, on the Pacific Coast Highway is Leo Carrillo State Park. For many local kids, it’s their first camping trip. You can make reservations through Reserve America and bring your own RV or pitch a tent. The campground is located across the road from one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are trails on the mountain side and tide pools on the ocean side that are great for getting a glimpse of sea creatures. Named for an actor and preservationist, Leo Carrillo is a great place to learn about respect for the natural world.
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Located in Yosemite Valley, California and part of Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows is another world. The Great White Book is an awe-inspiring climbing route that offers a challenge for the best climbers with cracks, knobs, and edges, and a 95-foot section of sheer sandstone that’s endurance testing at its best. The Pleasure Dome above Tenaya Lake is a misnomer because you’re climbing polished rock in sections with poor protection. Make sure to take plenty of water and insect repellent, especially in the summer. You’ll also want to have your camera with you for some amazing aerial views. There are several campgrounds in the area, but not all are open year-round. Check the website before going and make sure you don’t need a wilderness permit if you want to stay at one of the backcountry campgrounds.
Located in northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park provides a fun adventure for adults and kids of all ages. There are volcanic remains like mud pots, fumaroles (steam and gas vents), boiling springs, and red cinder cones scattered throughout the region, and views of the area that will take your breath away. The park is home to two of the best climbing areas in this part of the state, too. Bellybutton is the largest of the crags found in the park with an elevation of 165 feet. Eagle Peak is good for climbing when it’s cooler because the warmth of the sun makes the climb very pleasant. Because the park has areas where there is still volcanic activity, make sure to stay on the established trails, check weather and availability reports, and bring plenty of water.
At Sequoia National Park, climbers will find the great Castle Rock Spire. But as a fair warning, this area can get hot and it’s not uncommon to see rocks and the occasional rattlesnake in the area. So be prepared! Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you’ll want to allow a full day to hike and access the Paradise Creek trail—you’ll be well-rewarded for your efforts. The best time to climb is May through August when water is more available. There are several camping grounds in the area, but make sure you hang food at your base camp away from where you’re camping. Bears have been known to help themselves to whatever they find. It’s a good idea to get a backcountry permit, too, since rangers keep a check on all overnight vehicles and owners.
Located in Joshua Tree National Park, Ryan Campground, with an elevation of 4,300 feet, offers several excellent rock climbing opportunities on the climber access trail there. Climbers can choose between the main attraction, Headstone Rock, which has two rocks worth climbing: a 50-foot pillar of sheer rock known as SW Corner, and Cryptic, a steep and challenging rock wall, plus Lost Rocks, and the Manure Pile. The area was home to Native Americans for hundreds of years, then became used by cattlemen and miners for the natural resources found there. Joshua Tree became a national monument in 1936, and resulted in 825,000 acres being set apart, but it was reduced in size in the 1950s to allow for mining. For those who choose to stay overnight, there are 31 campsites on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bring your own water.
Located in San Diego, California, with an elevation of 3,648 feet at the summit, most of the mountain is in the Cleveland National Forest and is surrounded by private property or Native American land. This is hiker and climber paradise and one of the most strenuous efforts in the state. What do you get when you combine sunny California and multi-pitch climbing? Serious rock climbing fun! Better wear your helmet on this trip because there is some strenuous climbing and rappelling to be done that may result in a bit of spinning. You might even see a falcon or two while climbing. Make sure you read up on the areas and be prepared.
]]>There are many places where you can find a paddleboard rental in the San Diego Bay area. As one of California’s most scenic beaches, it’s an experience not to be missed. You can rent boards by the hour or day, so that you can spend as much time on the water as you want. Be sure to wear sunscreen and check for Groupons that are offered by some companies. If you know when and where you want to rent, you can also book your paddleboard online in advance of your visit.
Catalina Island is largely uninhabited beyond the harbors. To explore the island from a different point of view, you can rent a paddleboard from providers on the island, including the town of Avalon as well as the campground on the other side. Paddleboarding gives you a different viewpoint from the usual camping activity and you can enjoy the coves that surround the island.
You can rent a paddleboard or take a class to explore the natural wonders of the Monterey Bay area. Home to sea otters and marine life, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a great place to enjoy ecotourism and how to best preserve the famous aquatic region. You can rent a paddleboard or take a guided class to learn more about the area wildlife.
Santa Barbara has several spots where you can rent a paddleboard and explore some of the most beautiful waters in the world. Some providers offer classes and tours, including paddleboard yoga so that you can really engage and balance. You can sign up for multiple rentals or just show up to take out a paddleboard for as long as you want.
Learn more about Lake Tahoe by taking a guided tour with the experts. You can see stunning snow-capped mountains from the water and learn the best paddling techniques if it’s your first time. If you’re in town for a while, consider a season pass that allows you multiple trips out on the water. You can bring your own group or join a tour and then spend time on the water on your own.
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