If you are in the mood to be out in nature, looking for an adventure or simply want to get off campus, a hiking trip may be your answer.
HACIENDA HILLS TRAIL
Despite a bit of a windy drive, check out Hacienda Hills Trails. This trail system is located 20 minutes north of Biola’s campus. You can hike for free, and the trail overlooks Whittier and Hacienda Heights.
TURTLE ROCK AREA HIKE
A good aerobic workout and a beautiful view of the city skyline awaits you at Turtle Rock Hike Area with a quick 30 minute drive, reaching your destination with plentiful parking. However, make sure you park legally before embarking on a steep but rewarding night or day hike. Be sure to pack your tennis shoes as it can get a bit dusty and maybe a thermos of cocoa to share once you reach the top.
ESCONDIDO CANYON PARK
Just over an hour away, Escondido Canyon Park offers a 3.8 mile round trip hike with a two-tiered waterfall. If you can muster enough courage to venture to the top tier, make sure you are equipped with the proper footgear. Relax by the falls after the hike to perfectly end a long day of adventure.
OAK CANYON NATURE CENTER
Oak Canyon Nature Center is barely short of a 30 minute drive. The nature center offers a museum of regional animals and remains one of the last areas in this region to contain coastal sage scrub and oak woodland. Consisting of three canyons and four miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to advanced, Oak Canyon Nature Center has plenty of options to explore.
SANTIAGO OAKS PARK
Santiago Oaks Park, a 30 minute drive, spans over a secluded 1,269 acres of land offers a place for nature lovers to explore away from an urban setting. This park offers great mountain views, a mature and varied forest and plenty of options for hikers as well as bikers and equestrians. Come back in the fall when the trees are on fire with color.
HOLY JIM TRAIL
Holy Jim trail offers a more moderate hike. The trail boasts braided tree tunnels, runs alongside a creek and leads to a small waterfall. The best time to go is during rainy season, as it offers lush views. Parking passes, National Forest Adventure Pass, cost five dollars and can be purchased at a Big 5 store or ranger station.
DEVIL'S PUNCHBOWL
If you are willing to take the hour and forty-five minute drive to Devil’s Punchbowl you will find yourself hiking amidst beautiful, deep canyons and stark rock formations. With solid hiking in a beautiful environment, you will want to check out Devil’s Punchbowl.
