by Linda Castillo
It’s hard to believe we only have one more month of summer. So why not spend the next few weeks exploring the great outdoors hiking with your loved ones?
I had a chance to go hiking with my daughter Audrina at Jack’s Peak County Park in Monterey. It had been awhile since I went hiking and it was the first time for my daughter.
It was a bonding experience for us as we encouraged each other to keep going up the hill. We were so excited to reach the top and enjoy the spectacular view of the beautiful Monterey Bay. When we reached the bottom, Audrina liked it so much she wanted to go again!
While I am new to hiking, I asked a few of my friends who are avid hikers to recommend some of their favorite family-friendly hiking trails. I hope that I can enjoy some of these beautiful hiking trails with my girls before summer is over.
Jacks Peak County Park is a perfect spot for a day hike. Located in Monterey, Jacks Peak County Park has fossils from the Miocene epoch, stunning vistas of Monterey Bay and Carmel Valley, and one of the only remaining natural stands of Monterey Pine trees in the United States. It is also a great spot for a picnic, with picnic tables located close to restrooms, some with grills. Jacks Peak County Park is celebrated by birders for the many species it houses and is part of the Central Coast Birding Trail.
At 2,517 feet, Mission Peak towers over the southern arm of the San Franciso Bay. It offers a 360-degree panorama that extends from San Jose to Mount Tamalpais. On a clear day, you can even see the Sierra Nevada range to the east.
Looking for a great trail in Coyote Hills Regional Park, California? All Trails has 14 great hiking trails, trail running trails, walking trails and more, with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you. Just looking to take a quick stroll? We’ve got 8 easy trails in Coyote Hills Regional Park ranging from 1 to 11.2 miles and from 6 to 285 feet above sea level. Start checking them out and you’ll be out on the trail in no time!
Established in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods is California’s oldest state park. In the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, its biggest attractions—literally—are its ancient coast redwoods. Some of these giants are more than 50 feet around and as tall as the Statue of Liberty. At 1,000 to 1,800 years old, some may predate the Roman Empire. The park also offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, lush waterfalls, and a fascinating natural and cultural history. Big Basin’s coastal unit, Rancho del Oso, is accessible off Highway 1 in Davenport, about 20 miles north of Santa Cruz.
The park has more than 80 miles of trails. Some of these trails link Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range. The Skyline to the Sea Trail threads its way through the park along Waddell Creek to the beach and adjacent Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve, a freshwater marsh.The park has a number of waterfalls, a variety of habitats (from lush canyon bottoms to sparse chaparral-covered slopes), many animals (deer, raccoons, bobcats) and lots of bird life—including Steller’s jays, egrets, herons and California woodpeckers.
Vasona Lake County Park includes 45 acres of lawn which can be used for informal play such as frisbee tossing, softball or soccer. There are several picnic areas available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eight reservable group areas are placed at scenic locations throughout the park. Hikers, runners, bicyclists, and skaters enjoy the Los Gatos Creek multiple use trail which begins at Lexington Reservoir and follows the Los Gatos Creek for nearly 9.5 miles through the Town of Los Gatos, Vasona Lake County Park, Los Gatos Creek County Park, and the cities of Campbell and San Jose.
Roys Redwood Loop Trail is a 2.4 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near San Geronimo, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Here are a few hiking tips to get you started:
- Pick a trail to match your level and stick to the trail.
- Go early so you can avoid crowds and enjoy some calmness of connecting with nature as you are on the trail.
- Carry a bottle of water to ensure you stay hydrated. And if you bring your dog, don’t forget water for them too!
- Bring sunscreen and sun protection (i.e. a hat).
- Wear shoes with good traction.
- Make it an all day event and pack a lunch to enjoy after the hike or some light snacks.
Linda Castillo is the Founder and Executive Editor of www.ModernLatina.com. She writes on topics that empower and inspire Latinas including art, motherhood, green living, culture, travel, and issues transforming the Latino community. Linda has earned a B.S. in Business and a M.S. in Mass Communications from San Jose State University.