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THE GOLDEN STATE — My family just returned from a classic spring break road trip to Southern California. We hit up Disneyland, ate a ridiculous amount of Dole Whips and spent as much time at the beach as possible.
Those three ingredients, alone, can provide a dreamy vacation for just about any kid, but the Golden State has so much natural beauty beyond the beach. Let's look at five hikes that can add a bit more diversity to your time in Southern California. This list is obviously just the tip of the iceberg, as there are countless hikes/excursions in the area — please add your favorites in the comments.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Described as a "wilderness island in an urban sea," Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is truly a gem of the San Diego area. It is home to wildflowers, salt marshes, soaring cliffs and Pinus torreyana, the rarest pine tree in the nation. And the ocean views are simply incredible.
There are miles of trails here, so you can just choose the best options for your family. Be aware that the cliff areas can be dangerous for small children, and rising tides can make some of the beach sections precarious.
Cowles Mountain
Cowles Mountain is another great hike in the San Diego area. While it's not as vibrant as what you'll find in Torrey Pines, it has the advantage of being the highest point in the region. The summit of Cowles Mountain nearly reaches 1,600 feet, offering views that extend from Tijuana, Mexico, to Orange County.
Because this is a popular hike, start early and avoid weekends. Plan for around three hours on the route and bring plenty of water.
Sturtevant Falls Trail
One of the prettiest waterfalls in the Los Angeles area is Sturtevant Falls. The trail is just over three miles and follows a babbling stream. Once you reach the falls, the cooling mist will rejuvenate you for the hike out.
If you have a fur family, your dog is welcome to join you on this hike as long as you keep it leashed. Plan on the entire experience taking around three hours.
San Diego Zoo
I realize most people wouldn't consider visiting a zoo as "hiking." But the San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres and features miles of trails. The most relaxing portions are in the Lost Forest section, where towering trees provide shade. So you might want to explore the more sun-drenched parts of the zoo in the morning hours, then finish with the Lost Forest.
Regardless of which routes you take through this magnificent zoo, you'll encounter thousands of animals in magnificently designed exhibits. The koalas are always a hit, and my kids loved seeing the Tasmanian devils on this last visit. Whenever your feet are ready for a break, you can take the aerial tram (called the Skyfari) from one end of the zoo to the other.
Barker Dam Trail
If you have younger children and you're in Joshua Tree National Park, Barker Dam is definitely calling your name. This little loop of a trail covers only about a mile in distance but includes rock formations, desert wildlife and Native American rock art. Oh, and as you might have guessed, there are lots of Joshua trees.
Barker Dam itself is a pool of water that varies in size based on the season's rainfall. It's a gorgeous oasis in an otherwise rugged landscape.
