Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange feels very accessible to those who might be hesitant to explore the greater wilds of Orange County with kids. I would feel comfortable taking a toddler here, because the hikes are short and the pay-offs are big. [NOTE: There are quite a few trail closures due to the October 2017 Canyon Fire 2 which heavily impacted this park. So make sure … [Read more...]
Nature Hikes
Find the best nature hikes to take with families in Orange County. Many are more like nature walks and designed more for connecting your family to the outdoors. Families can relax together!
Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks for Families
Understanding the vastness of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is key. It's hard to believe that it's 50,000 acres! The area was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 2006 by the U.S. Department of the Interior and the first California National Landmark in 2008. Its rare biological and geological features and extraordinary natural resources earned the land nationwide … [Read more...]
Family-Friendly Walks near Dana Point Harbor (with Route Maps)
Family-friendly walks near Dana Point Harbor definitions depend a little on your family's ability level and patience for long walks. These 5 walks are a mixture of streets, walking trails and urban hiking in the area, but it's hard to get these maps across in words. So this post is an experiment in maps. Each map gives approximate routes for walking near Dana Point Harbor. … [Read more...]
Fairy Trail Hike at Oso Creek in Mission Viejo
It was an artistic and miniature fantasyland brought to you by the same Fairyologist who created the Aliso Summit Fairy Trail. You may have read my posts about the Oso Viejo Community Park Playground and the Oso Creek Trail on this blog. In both of those posts, I have you access the trail from the playground since there is a path leading down to the creek from … [Read more...]
Newport Beach Civic Center and Park: Natural Area with Blue Bridges and White Bunnies
Everyone thinks of the Newport Beach Civic Center Park as the place with the white bunny sculptures. But when I think of Newport Beach, I think of sailing and the ocean. Even their city seal sports sails, fish, and the ocean. So that's why it makes sense that the architecture of the Newport Beach Civic Center and Park (NBCC) should match that vision. The roofline looks like … [Read more...]