Everyone has their own checklist when visiting the West Coast. Usually this entails Hollywood, Venice Beach, San Francisco and so on. Those tourist attractions are great for a first time visitor but what else is there to do for the more seasoned travellers?
The first thing you need to understand is that Southern California has a nearly endless supply of things to see and do. From amazing hiking trails in San Diego, to hot springs in the desert and beautiful islands just off the coast of LA. SoCal has it all.
Hiking in San Diego
San Diego is well known for its great beaches, laid back lifestyle and always perfect weather, yet there’s a lot more to this sunny place than perfect beach days. If you are an active adventure seeker then you can’t miss the chance to go on some of the most impressive hikes in the San Diego County Area. Two of the more fun and challenging trails would be the Potato Chip Rock and the Three Sister Falls.
Potato Chip Rock/ Mt. Woodson Trail
Just a short 40 min drive north of Downtown San Diego starts the trail of the infamous Potato Chip Rock. Well-known by San Diego and LA residents yet still undiscovered by adventure seeking international travellers, this is a scenic 12 mile (19.3 km) round trip with a great photo op at the end. Note: Either hike during the week or start early on weekends as there can be a line-up to take pictures on the rock
On a clear day–let’s face it, when isn’t it a clear day in San Diego?–you can see for miles, all the way to the skyline of San Diego, the Pacific Ocean and maybe even catch a glimpse of Mexico. The views from the top are worth the trek.
Three Sister Falls
This trail is open from November until June but the best time to visit is in early Spring as there will be plenty of water you can swim in and you’ll even be able to take advantage of some of the naturally formed slides. The trail is located in Descanso, CA, an hour east of San Diego. The drive up to the trail’s start point is rugged with winding dirt and gravel roads so make sure you have the right kind of vehicle! Although this hike is only a short 4 mile (6.4 km) round trip, don’t let that fool you. The hike can be very strenuous as most of the trail is not regularly maintained. Expect to climb over rock formations down in the valley and make use of the ropes as you are sliding down or coming back up the steep dirt hills. Bring plenty of water as it can get very hot and also wear a hat as there isn’t much shade available. Once you have reached the waterfalls, take a dip in then freezing water and slide down on some of the rock formations into one of the smaller formed pools.
And watch out for rattlesnakes!
Natural Hot Springs, Deep Creek Hot Springs in Apple Valley
Another great hiking and camping opportunity is just a short hour and a half drive outside of LA, near Apple Valley in the Mojave Desert.
On the 4 mile (6.4 km) round trip to the creek you can gaze at the unique landscape surrounding Deep Creek as it’s quite different from the rest of Southern California.
For any outdoor lovers this is a great spot to get some hiking in along the Pacific Coast Trail (PCT) which follows the creek for about 16 miles (26 km) as part of the 2,650 mile (4264.7 km) PCT. Afterward a long hike you can jump in one of the few different hot springs to sit back and relax. Take it from me, there’s nothing like sitting in warm water on a clear night gazing at the Mojave Desert Moon and listening to the wildlife surrounding you.
Avoid going on busy holiday weekends as it can get crowded and also be prepared to see some nudity, as some visitors are very free spirited.
Exploring Catalina Island off the coast of Los Angeles
Just an hour ferry ride away from Los Angeles is this beautiful island perfect for any outdoor adventures or relaxing weekend vacations. You can depart either from Dana Point, Long Beach or San Pedro and choose your own adventure from there. Head to Anker at Two Harbors on the north of Santa Catalina for hiking and camping opportunities or head south to the city of Avalon, with its cabanas, casino and small town flair to relax.
Hiking and Camping
Catalina has various hiking trails of different lengths and many camping sites along the way. For the most extreme hikers there is the opportunity to hike 37 miles (60 km) from one end of the island to the other. If you’re only in it for the vista, hike up Mt. Orizaba, Catalina’s highest peak with breathtaking views over the entire island.
And if hiking is not enough you can choose one of the many camping sites offered on the island. One of the most secluded and beautiful spots is called Parsons Landing, located on the far north of the island. Start your adventure in Two Harbors and head north for about 7 miles (11 km) until you reach the campsite. This campground has only 8 spots for 8 people each so make sure to make a reservation early enough to secure yours. There is also the possibility that you might have to share your spot with some sunbathing seals.
Whilst enjoying the beautiful flora and fauna you might even encounter a free roaming bison or two. Why bison you ask? Well, they were flown in to be extras in a film called ‘The Vanishing American’ in 1924 and instead of shipping them back they simply left them there where they continued to grow in population over the years. Although, they might look like peaceful giants they will charge at you if you get too close so definitely give them their “personal space.”
Now it’s up to you to choose your own SoCal adventure ….
About the Author: Based in Vienna, Austria, Marc has always dreamt of exploring the world and immerse himself in different cultures. This led him to live in San Diego for 8 years where he travelled all over the States as well as his occasional visits back to Europe. His adventurous side keeps him always on the look out for the next extraordinary journey, from running marathons in Africa, to rafting in Nepal.
