We arrived at Mattole Beach early in the evening. The trailhead has a scattering of car campsites, which we were eager to leave behind. We donned our backpacks, hit the trail, and promptly lost ourselves in the vast beauty of the coast. It feels somehow primal; the convergence of sea and land on this solitary, rugged […]
Parker Mesa Overlook from Trippet Ranch
The Parker Mesa Overlook is perched high above Malibu in Topanga State Park, with expansive views of the coast as well as the LA basin. This out-and-back route clocks in just under seven miles, mostly along a well-graded fire road. The trail is popular with trail runners, hikers and mountain bikers, who enjoy the ocean […]
Temescal Canyon Loop
Temescal Canyon in the Pacific Palisades provides a beautiful setting for a short hike. Wooded canyon? Check. Great exercise with a challenging climb? Check. Beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific coastline? This hike has all of the above. We checked this trail out late on a Saturday afternoon and were able to enjoy the sunset from […]
Exploring Lands End
I love San Francisco. Don’t get me wrong. I love LA, too. But as far as cities go, SF is one of my favorites. Last week Joan and I drove up to visit family for Thanksgiving. My mom is a fantastic cook, and I knew we’d have to get out and stretch our legs after […]
Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak
Sandstone Peak and the Mishe Mokwa Trail in particular are revered by many as one of the “must-hike” trails in Southern California. Casey over at Modern Hiker describes it as “the Hike That Got Me Hiking.” It was Kolby “Condor” Kirk’s 6th hike in his 100 hikes goal, back when he really getting into hiking. This […]
Inspiration Loop Trail in Will Rogers State Park
When the heat is on, the coast beckons. This easy, family-friendly hiking trail begins at the historic Pacific Palisades home of Will Rogers and loops up to Inspiration Point. The Inspiration Loop Trail is not challenging. It’s not long. But with balmy breezes, great views, and a dose of history, Inspiration Loop makes a fun outing. We […]
Angel Island Mt. Livermore Loop
Last year during the holidays, Joan and I visited my mom and her husband in San Francisco. While the city of San Francisco is great for walking, I was surprised how easy it is to find a wilderness experience nearby. I have not hiked much in the Bay Area, so I put out a call […]
Batiquitos Lagoon Trail
Batiquitos Lagoon in north San Diego County is one of the few remaining tidal wetlands on the southern coast of the United States. Located between Carlsbad and Encinitas, the lagoon is managed as a wildlife preserve by the California Department of Fish and Game. This lagoon is home to several protected nesting areas and water […]
