A Quick Escape Is Closer Than You Think

Need a weekend escape?  All this rainy weather may have you a feeling a little cabin feverish.  And it doesn’t help when rainy weekends make the dog antsy and destructive from boredom.  Luckily, you live in California; and one of the great things about California is that bad weather is never here to stay. 

With spring in the air, and green everywhere, now is the time to get outside and make the most of those beautiful sunny days.  It’s time to give yourself a break from the day to day bustle and get out and see what’s going on in your neck of the woods; literally.  

The Inland Empire has a treasure trove of hiking trails, from Temecula to Big Bear, just waiting to be explored.  The best part is, your four-legged pal can join you and explore too (on leash, of course).  Just be careful not to bring any new friends home with you.

5 Hikes You Can Enjoy Locally

1.       Fairmount Park, Riverside -  This multi-use park features a couple of lakes with trails for walking and hiking as well as areas for other activities such as a playground, tennis courts, picnic areas,  and a golf course.  This local treasure was designed in 1911 by the designers of New York’s Central Park, Olmstead & Olmstead, and is sure to please, offering a little something for everyone in the family.  Located at 2601 Fairmount Blvd. in Riverside.

2.       Louis Robidoux Nature Center, Riverside -  This park offers several hiking trails, many of which take hikers around Sunnyslope Creek.  There are other trails which take hikers to Schroder’s Pond, Burnt Pond, or the Santa Ana River.  Additionally, this park has several educational bridges highlighting the native animals and plants of the park.   Located at 5370 Riverview in Riverside.

3.       Skyline Trail, Corona – For hiking or biking, some of the best views of Corona can be can be seen from this little known trail which leads to the Cleveland National Forest.  Located on Skyline Drive (off Lincoln Ave, turn right onto foothill, the entrance is a little hard to find) in Corona.

4.       Pine Knot Trail, Big Bear -  This moderate 6-mile (roundtrip) hike gives you an little more of a physical challenge while rewarding you with a breath taking view of the world below.   Parking is located at Aspen Grove (just off Highway 18, past the Big Bear Dam and Mill Creek Road) in Big Bear.

5.       Cougar Crest Trail, Lake Arrowhead -  This 5-mile (roundtrip) hike is a not for the faint of heart but well worth the views.  Located off Highway 38 (on the left side, about 2 ½ miles east of Fawnskin) in Lake Arrowhead.  

You never know what great trails can be found in your neighborhood until you go out looking for them.  So put on your boots and grab the dog, it’s time to get out and explore your neck of the woods.