Our hike to Tahquitz Peak followed Devil’s Slide Trail through the forests above Idyllwild before reaching a historic fire lookout and sweeping mountain views.

Quail Hill Loop is an easy two-mile trail through open grassland in Irvine. We came looking for Blue Grosbeaks and also found Western Kingbirds, House Finches, and Red-tailed Hawks watching the trail from above.

Ryan Mountain is a short but strenuous Joshua Tree hike, climbing more than 1,000 feet to a windy summit with expansive views across the desert.

An evening hike around the reservoir at Peters Canyon Regional Park brought steep little hills, quiet overlooks, California Quail, young Western Bluebirds, and noisy parrots overhead.

The Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail is an easy, shaded hike through the forest above Idyllwild. Mossy boulders, seasonal creek crossings, and glimpses of Suicide Rock make it a good choice when we want mountain scenery without a steep climb.

Red Rock Canyon in Whiting Ranch feels surprisingly far removed from suburban Orange County. This easy local hike follows Borrego Canyon Trail through grasses and oak woodland before reaching a colorful pocket of red sandstone cliffs.

Our first hike to Barbara’s Lake led us to a dry basin in the middle of California’s drought. After a wet winter brought the lake back, we returned to find water, green hillsides, and ducks moving across the surface.

Hike Buck Gully Reserve in Newport Beach for coastal canyon views, spring wildflowers, California poppies, and a peaceful 4-mile Orange County trail.

Hike Bertha Peak near Big Bear Lake for peaceful forests, Pacific Crest Trail scenery, and panoramic mountain views. Learn what to expect on this rewarding Southern California hike.

Mount Baden-Powell is one of Southern California's classic summit hikes. Nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, towering limber pines, and panoramic views make every switchback worth the effort.

Hike the Willow Canyon, Bommer Ridge, and Big Bend Trail loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. This scenic 5-mile Orange County hike features rocky canyons, ocean views, and wide-open ridgelines.

Explore the Laurel Canyon and Willow Canyon Loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. This scenic Orange County hike features sandstone formations, oak woodlands, and canyon views!