The kids are back to school, the summer season is winding down – but that doesn’t mean the good times have to come to an end.
September is typically a month when the locals get to have fun in the sun, with nice weather lingering and planned activities throughout the county to get out and enjoy before fall cools things off.
Here’s a few ideas to inspire you to get out and enjoy:
Hike and learn
There are plenty of ways to not just explore nature, but learn about the landscape that native species call home.
A handful of hikes and programs aimed at exploring the biodiversity of critters and their habitats are planned, starting with a “Biodiversity Bioblitz” hike at Crystal Cove State Park on Sept. 7 to mark California Biodiversity Day.
The one-mile, easy hike through Moro Canyon explores Crystal Cove State Park’s backcountry, while identifying and documenting animal and plant species using the Inaturalist app.
Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water, and dress in layers. Meet at the Berns Amphitheater in the Lower Moro parking lot. The program is for ages 8 and up. Parking is $15 day-use rate and registration is required by emailing: [email protected].
On Sept. 20, a bird walk guided hike will be offered in Peters Canyon Regional Park in Orange to learn about how to listen for their songs while searching high and low for the various species. The program is for all levels, but aimed at beginner-intermediate level birders. Bring your binoculars, sun protection and comfortable shoes.
Registration is required ahead of time at: letsgooutside.org/ocparks/activities.
There’s also Birding by the Creek being offered from 8 to 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 16 at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. It is a program for ages 12 and up.
Aliso Creek is one of the best riparian birding sites in Orange County, according to OC Parks. Staff and volunteers will lead an easy 3-mile hike along the creek on a dirt and paved road trail.
No experience…
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