13 Weeks of Summer: Week 5

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new and encourage your friends to join you.

This week, take a Hike! (Literally)

Put on your boots and grab the dog, it’s time to get out and explore your neck of the woods.  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).  Remember to bring plenty of fresh water for you and your pup and be careful not to bring any new creatures home with you.

1.       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.

2.       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.

3.       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.

If you would like to cool off in this hot weather, you may enjoy a costal hike better.  California boasts 1,200 miles of wild and urban trails along the coast, appropriately called ‘California Coastal Trail’.  Enjoy the view and the breeze with your dog, no matter where you might be along the California Coast.  More specifically, Laguna Beach is littered with trails that are great for day hikes.  The most popular places to hike is El Moro Canyon and Crystal Cove State Park because of the variety and diversity of the trails there.  Just be aware, the trails are shared with mountain bikers so keep your dog close and out of the bikers’ way.

1.       El Moro Ridge Grand Loop – This trail can be found just 3 miles south of Corona Del Mar, on Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach.  This trail is great for any level of hiker because although it is a 9.5 mile loop, there are several other trails (at various parts along the main trail) that cut through it allowing a hiker to take a short cut and make the loop shorter according to their comfort level.   Parking can be found in the El Moro Canyon/Crystal Cove parking lot off of PCH.  For complete directions, click on the trail title.   Also, be aware that dogs are not allowed on any Crystal Cove backcountry trails.  

2.       RanchoSan Clemente Ridgeline Trail – This trail is 3 ½ miles long with wide angle views of the coastline from Dana Point to San Diego.  The trail is mostly asphalt but there are a couple of points along the trail that are natural soil.  The majority of the trail is easy, long grades but there are a few points that are steep, making this an appealing option for any type of hiker.  This trail has 6 entrances, one of which is just behind the Sergeant Baron Von Willard Memorial Dog Playground, and 3 of which that have parking nearby.  Parking can be found on Avenida Salvador, from Avenida Presidio off the 5 freeway.  For complete directions and a map of the trail, click on the trail title.

Want to find a trail near you? Check out www.trails.com and click on ‘Trail Finder’ to locate a trail closer to home or to find a new trail to explore.