In an age conquered by electronics and new technologies, we often find ourselves indoors for most of our recreational time. Watching TV, playing video games, shopping and coffee runs are all valid ways we spend time with our friends. However, there are only so many movies we can see and so many times we can go to the mall before we start to get bored with doing the same activities over and over again. But what if there was something else we could do: something completely free, exciting and even healthy?
Consumed by shopping malls and movie theaters, we can forget that our natural environment also has so much to offer for activities. For one, hiking is a great way to get out of the house, clear your mind and elevate your heart rate for some easy exercise. Especially with our moderate, sunny California climate, why not get outside and truly appreciate our beautiful weather?
In addition to being great for staying in shape, Oak Park is a particularly perfect place to be if you want to go on a hike. You would be surprised by how many trails there are in Oak Park and its surrounding areas.
In addition to the numerous health benefits of going for a good walk, being out and about in nature has been shown to lower stress and anxiety levels and calm the brain. Moving your body in any way also boosts endorphin production, which can help improve your mood. Spending time outside and getting exposure to sunlight also increases vitamin D levels, which can help improve your circadian rhythm and sleep quality.
However, it’s important to remember that if you go on a hike, you will be out in the wilderness, so it’s important to be prepared with safety precautions. Make sure you tell a parent or guardian where you’re going and for how long. Bring plenty of water for hydration and snacks to refuel throughout the way. Remember that trails can often be rocky, so wear comfortable shoes with good traction and cushion. Also, keep in mind that you may see some wild animals such as snakes or coyotes and review the safety guidelines around them in case you see one.
Also take into account that most trails do not have cell service. Always bring a buddy with you in case you run into danger and, if it makes you feel safer, bring supplies such as pepper spray with you.
Here are a list of trails around Oak Park that you can hike:
Palo Comado Canyon
Length: Varies, Difficulty: Easy
There are many openings to the Palo Comado Canyon trail, including one near Deerhill Park through the Doubletree Connector Trail and another on Smoke Tree Avenue. You can often find OPHS’s cross-country team getting their shoes dirty here with a nice trail run.
There are several different ways you can enjoy this trail, including the Shepherd’s Loop (6.7 miles), the Palo Comado Canyon Trail (9.1 miles) and the China Flats Loop (6.9 miles). Or, you can do a simple out and back and choose your own distance.
Sunrise Meadow Ridge Trail
Length: ~2 miles, Difficulty: Moderate
This trail leads to a water tower with some beautiful views overlooking Oak Park. You can access it by turning left on the Doubletree Connector Trail, rather than continuing straight to reach the Palo Comado Canyon trailhead. While definitely steep and hilly, this trail is a nice, quick out-and-back perfect for if you’re looking for something short.
China Flats Loop
Length: 3.9 miles, Difficulty: Moderate-Hard
The China Flat trailhead can be found in a residential area at the end of King James Court off of Lindero Canyon Road in northwest Oak Park. This trail can be pretty steep with a lot of elevation gain, but the views that come from it are beautiful. You can also hike all the way up to Simi Peak from this trail if you choose.
Suicide Loop and Rock Ridge Trail
Length: 2.7 miles, Difficulty: Moderate
The Suicide Loop can be accessed through Oak Canyon Community Park with connections to the Rock Ridge Trail off of Deerhill. It is a moderate hike with decent hills. When done in conjunction with part of the Rock Ridge Trail, it is about 2.7 miles.
You can also just do the Rock Ridge Trail, which begins on Deerhill Road at Alexandra Court. After continuing on the trail, turn left at the first trail fork onto the Rock Ridge East Trail, a hike that ends up near Medea Creek Middle School and is approximately 1.3 miles total. A walk back to the starting point up Deerhill Road, a decent climb, makes a two mile loop.
Cheseboro Canyon Trails
Length: varies, Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
With a trailhead in Old Agoura, the Cheseboro Canyon Trails are a nice and easy option for a hike. If you stay on the main trail, you will find that it’s pretty much completely flat. However, you can also get in some decent hills on a connecting trail. You may also see some people horseback riding here.
Notice how many of these trails begin right in between homes? In addition to the trails already listed, there are also numerous small ones tucked into residential areas that are easily accessible by the public. The Rock Ridge Trail, for one, is located right behind some houses on Deerhill Road. From there, it opens up to several other trails, such as the Suicide Trail leading to Oak Canyon Park. It just goes to show how accessible trails in Oak Park can be, oftentimes within walking distance from your house.
If you would like more information on any of these trails, or would like to find more, there are many apps such as AllTrails that can assist you in finding all the information you need. So, next time you’re bored and need something new to do, remember that getting some good mindful movement on one of Oak Park’s trails is a lovely way to spend your time.
