Bouldering Hikes in Joshua Tree

By Patricia Lamkin
Photos by Randolph Scott

About two and a half hours east of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is a rock climbers dream. But for those not ready to scale a vast rock face, there is still adventure at higher elevations.

Switzer Picnic Area and Switzer Falls

By Patricia Lamkin

Hidden deep in the cradle of the Angeles National Forest is a true hiker's dream: the rugged trails of Switzer's Falls.

Part of the Upper Arroyo Seco River Basin, Switzer's is located off the Angeles Crest Highway, seven miles north of interstate 210 above La Canada/Flintridge. The shady trail head features a generous picnic area, which includes picnic tables, charcoal grills, and restrooms situated along a gurgling, stony creek. Switzer's offers beginner to advanced trails, sunny mountain views, cool wooded glades, and the highlight of it all: the falls!

Griffith Park Trails

by Patricia Lamkin
Photos by Patricia Lamkin
View of Griffith Observatory from Mount Hollywood.

The largest municipal park and urban wilderness area in the United States is right here in Los Angeles.