Summer is here.  And since you're in SoCal, that doesn't mean you have to stay inside.  So put on your walking shoes, grab some H2O, and get out there and explore some of OC’s great outdoors.

HIKING TRAILS
Even in Orange County you can escape all signs of civilization.  Your best bet for seclusion?  We love Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.  When you’re on this 24-mile stretch of hiking and biking trails, you’d swear you were in the middle of nowhere.  And if you’re looking for something a bit shorter, Aliso Peak via Seaview Park is a practically perfect one-mile hike with an ocean view you’ve gotta see to believe. 

WETLANDS
Bird watchers and eco-tourists unite.  Along the OC coast, you’ve got plenty of wetlands to explore.  One of our favorite wetland tours takes place on the first Saturday of every month:  Amigos de Bolsa Chica Tours at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.  From getting up-close-and-personal to wetland plants, animals and birds, to expanding your awareness about wetland conservation and endangered species protection, this free guided public tour is sure to stretch your muscles and inspire your spirit.

OPEN SPACE
And finally, here’s a not-so-secret spot that many locals don’t even know about.  For more than 50,000 acres of permanently protected open space in the heart of OC, head over to the Irvine Ranch Land Reserve.  With its rich menu of recreational opportunities – from hiking and horseback riding to bird-watching and picnicking – this National Natural Landmark is the literal gem of Orange County.  So what are you waiting for?  Start exploring. 

GET OUT THERE
Aliso Peak via Seaview Park - Talavera Street, Laguna Niguel
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve - 18000 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach
Irvine Ranch Land Reserve Trust - Bommer Canyon Road, Irvine
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park - 20101 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach