Southern California has arguably the best weather in the United States. With the rain of winter finally behind us, it’s time to get out of the house and grab some sunshine. We compiled a list of the best outdoor activities that you and your family should enjoy.
Before hitting the trail be sure to gear up with clothing fit for whatever weather you run into this Spring at the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store in West Covina. The store has the current season’s gear from Columbia’s family of brands at 40-60% below regular retail price. The store is invite only but caters to businesses of all sizes, clubs, military personnel year-round, and monthly promotions for various groups, this month it’s ‘Teacher Appreciation.’ If you or your organization is interested in signing up head here to gain access.
Hiking
Head up into the Santa Monica Mountains and take a hike in Solstice Canyon. The two-and-a-half mile trail winds through green sagebrush and beautiful trees. You may even see a waterfall that flows following rainfall. From mountaintop vista points, you’re able to see the Pacific Ocean so grab your camera.
Get your steps in and see some Hollywood history at Malibu Creek State Park. The hugely popular TV show “M*A*S*H” was supposed to be set in Korea but was actually shot up the coast from Los Angeles proper at this scenic park. The 4.75 mile loop is beautiful and well kept with a wide trail so you don’t have to squeeze past other hikers on the journey.
Parks
Griffith Park is home to one of the top 3 landmarks in all of Los Angeles, the Griffith Park Observatory. Go learn about the stars, in space not Hollywood, and then go on a hike in the sprawling hills. For the more adventurous hiker, there is a trek to the Hollywood sign for major LA tourist vibes. There are many shorter trails if you’re looking for a nice walk with a view. You can take in the sprawling city and on a clear day even the ocean.
Down in Long Beach lies big and beautiful El Dorado Park. There’s a nature center with a trail, a golf course, a disc golf course and numerous duck-filled ponds. The archery center at the park is always buzzing with archers practicing their crafts on the targets setup. This park is dog friendly with a big walking loop throughout the various sections and has two dog parks split between large and small dog sizes. Kids can ride the whimsical old-timey train and carousel. You can also rent bikes to cruise around the park in style.
Zoos
One of the best activities to do with children is go see some amazing animals at the zoo. Luckily, some of the best zoos in the world happen to be in Southern California.
Widely known as the best zoo in the US is the San Diego Zoo, a 100-acre bastion of wildlife beauty located in Balboa Park area of San Diego. This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals of 650 species. More than three million people visit this park each year. You can also visit the sprawling sister park, The San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This 1,800-acre park features giant exhibits where multiple species roam side-by-side. This park boasts the largest collection of hooved animals in the world as well as a renowned condor breeding program. Wrangle the whole family and take a visit to see wildlife from around the world in a sunny San Diego.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden is a fantastic park set just north of downtown Los Angeles, adjacent to Griffith Park and the Greek Theater. The rolling hills (not steep) and mountainous setting really create a wild ambience for the animals and visitors alike. This is a great place to pop in for a couple of hours and get exercise. You can view over 60 endangered species and learn about conservation efforts. The animals aren’t the only spectacle, the zoo gardens are home to plants from all over the world from Mexican fan palms to Hong Kong orchid trees.
Hope you get a chance to enjoy all of the awesome spring outdoor activities that Southern California has to offer, and don’t forget to hit up and visit the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store in West Covina for the perfect spring gear! Through the end of July, mention this article to gain access to the store.
