Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty. Located in the city of Lake Forest, this 2,500-acre wilderness park features a diverse landscape, including rugged canyons, rolling hills, lush oak woodlands, and pristine creeks. One of the park's most appealing attributes is its extensive network of well-maintained trails. In addition to hiking and mountain biking, the park offers opportunities for horseback riding and picnicking. Whether you seek a rigorous hike, a peaceful picnic, or a close encounter with wildlife, this park has something to offer every nature enthusiast.
This beautiful park is more than a mile long and rests on 175 lush acres of land. With more than 400 picnic tables, this park is ideal for a family outing. There are four lakes with connecting streams for fishing and sailing model boats. There are plenty of pedestrian and biking trails for the more active visitors. For children, there are many sets of play equipment like slides and jungle gyms. This place opens daily at 7 am.
Irvine Park Railroad is located in beautiful Irvine Regional Park. The one-third-scale train takes visitors on a scenic, 12-minute ride through the 495-acre (200-hectare) park. Other park attractions include pony rides, the Orange County Zoo, walking trails, horseback riding, snack bars, and more. You can rent paddle boats, bikes, and horseshoe and volleyball sets. Annual Irvine Park Railroad events include the Pumpkin Patch, Christmas Train, Easter Eggstravaganza, Santa’s Village, and Anniversary Celebration. School field trips are available. You can also reserve space for private parties.
Tucked away in a spot by the Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, the 1000 Steps Beach takes some effort to get to. Once there, the beach rewards you with more than just stellar views. Its somewhat hidden location in busy southern California is a blessing, leaving the beach and its pristine stretch practically to yourself. Sandstone cliffs bookend the beach's golden sands, even as you watch the shore-break waves crash in resoundingly. The beach offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, paddle-boarding and kayaking. Prepare yourself for a steep ascent on your way back.
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is a locals' favorite for hiking and biking, especially during spring when a spectrum of wildflowers bloom. This 7,000-acre wilderness preserve boasts a diverse landscape, from rolling hills and rugged canyons to lush woodlands and sweeping ocean vistas. This area features Barbara's Lake, Orange County's only natural lake. With "wilderness" in its name, it's no surprise that pets are not allowed in the park. The lucky ones may delight in spotting deer, bobcats, and weasels. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park provides an ideal setting for nature walks, picnics, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the great outdoors.