Orange County has over 200 miles of hiking trails, with many landscapes to enjoy after a hearty meal.
Especially after Thanksgiving.
This year, there are events right after Thanksgiving, like the 1.5-mile walk and thankfulness meditation event at the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, with no registration required.
You can also visit trails and parks that are open year-long, like Laguna Beach’s Heisler Park, or Orange’s Peters Canyon.
Peters Canyon, a 340-acre open space, is situated around two reservoirs created in the 1930s, and a second reservoir was expanded in the 1940’s. The Canyon is home to over 10 different trails that range from easy to difficult. Dogs are allowed on the trail.
Address: 8548 Canyon View Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Hours: Open Daily, Sunday- Saturday, 7 a.m. to sunset.
Parking: $3. Accepts dollar bills, quarters and Visa/ Master credit cards.
Visit Orange County’s only grove of Coastal Redwoods on a 1.1-mile walk suitable for all. Playgrounds and picnic areas are also available.
Address: 4442 Carbon Canyon Road Brea, CA 92823
Hours: Open Daily, Sunday- Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.Parking: $3 per vehicle entry Monday – Friday; $5 Saturday – Sunday; Higher for some holidays and events.
Dana Point Headlands has a public trail system that is over 3 miles long, interconnected with different views, an interpretive center, and beach access. The non-profit Center for Land Management manages the land, who protects sensitive habitats. No dogs allowed.
Address: Nature Preserve and Conservation Parks, 34558 Scenic Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
Hours: Open Daily, 7 a.m. to Sunset
Parking: Limited street parking or at the Nature Interpretive Center parking lot.
Heisler Park, a Laguna Beach beachfront park is home to concrete paved trails that loop to viewpoints of the coast. Picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout the park for pedestrians wanting to take in the views.
Address: 375 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Hours: Open Daily
Parking: Street Parking
Visit one of the largest coastal wetlands in southern California, where native plants and wildlife coexist to create a natural ecosystem. Four bluffs line the bay: The California Gnatcatcher, San Diego Cactus Wren, and Burrowing Owl. Dogs are permitted on the trail.
Address: 2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hours: Open Daily, Sunday- Saturday, 7 a.m. to sunset.
Julie Leopo is the Voice of OC Director of Photography. You can reach her at Jleopo@voiceofoc.org
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