There are two main routes leading up infamous Mailbox Peak, and this loop takes you up one (the “Old” trail) and down the other (the kinder, gentler “new” trail). This is the summit mountaineers train on when winter weather shuts down access to higher peaks. And for good reason, the old trail climbs over 4,000 […]
Hiking With Your Dog: 7 Things to Bring
My mixed breed, rescue dog, Pip, is one of my favorite hiking companions. There is something both deeply peaceful and companionable about sharing a hike with her. Also, as a woman, having my dog at my side adds significantly to my sense of security which adds immeasurably to my overall enjoyment. Pip, and all my […]
Sitton Peak Trail
At 3,273 feet above sea level, Sitton Peak has commanding 360 degree views of the Cleveland National Forest. On clear days, you can see the ocean and  even Catalina Island. The elevation gain and distance makes this a good intermediate level hike. The first section of the trail is single track, but much of the […]
The San Clemente Beach Trail
The San Clemente Beach Trail extends from the Metro Station parking lot at North Beach to Calafia State Beach in the south. It is basically a flat, fairly smooth crushed granite trail that’s shared by walkers, runners, bikers, dogs and strollers. Because it’s a flat out-and-back trail, you can make it as easy or challenging as […]