Category: Explore


Mar
2016

Women’s Bike Racing for Beginners

categories: Explore

VintagepicWomenCycling

I haven’t been on my road bike in over 11 years (that’s me on the right…just kidding) and I do believe it’s time to dust my beloved road bike and get it tuned up!

The “Women’s Bike Racing for Beginners” event hosted by The Unlikely Cyclist (an awesome specialty bike shop in Costa Mesa) has sparked an interest in me. This is what this blog is all about, things that inspire me, refine my life and hopefully yours too.

The Unlikely Cyclist is a women’s specific cycling boutique. This very unique bike shop that started from a blog (and yet again…I’m feeling inspired) and turned into a shop that specializes in empowering all women regardless of age, size or ability to excel in the sport of road cycling.

Image courtesy of The Unlikely Cyclist Facebook page
Image courtesy of The Unlikely Cyclist Facebook page

This fun event is an introduction to the world of women’s bike racing. This is the perfect way to get women involved and learn (or re-learn) about road racing.

The event will be taught by Priscilla Savord (an actual CAT 1 racer), Priscilla will teach you how to corner safely, distribute your weight effectively, protect your front wheel and more. This is an awesome opportunity to have some fun, learn some new skills or re-kindle some old ones.

  • When: Friday, April 7, 2016, check in at 5:15 pm. The clinic begins at 5:30 pm and is followed by a “race” at 6:00 pm.
  • Where: The Great Park, Irvine, CA
  • Cost: $10.00 – Please RSVP on The Unlikely Cyclist Events The Unlikely Cyclist Events Facebook page.

The Unlikely Cyclist is located at 1661 Superior Ave., Costa Mesa, CA

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Mar
2016

Take a Walk in the Park Day

categories: Explore
Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center
Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center

Today is the (unofficial) official “Take a Walk in the Park Day” (any excuse will do for me). That’s right, get out there today and take a walk in the park.

According to Everybodywalk.org  going on regular walks has a very positive effect on your overall health and well-being. In fact they also say that walking in natural environments, such as parks, trails, and other green spaces has proven that people enjoy higher levels of health and well-being.

Walking in nature promotes total health, both physical and mental. An example of this can be seen by looking at the body’s relationship with stress after walking through an urban and a green environment. In one study, groups of university students were taken on walks through a forest and the city. Saliva samples taken from the participants before and after each of the walks demonstrated that the experience of walking through the forest reduced the participants’ levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, to a greater extent than did the city walk.

Walking in a natural setting reduces stress, promotes calm & relaxation, helps short term memory and helps the attention span of children with ADHD.

Find a trail at one of your local regional or local parks today. You can help the movement by posting a picture with the hashtag #takeawalkintheparkday.

 

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Mar
2016

Hike the Redwoods!

categories: Explore

Did you know you can hike the Redwoods right here in Orange County? Carbon Canyon Regional Park has a ten-acre grove of Coastal Redwood trees. This grove of redwoods were planted in 1975 with many of the trees standing over 100 feet tall. Not bad being that this is far from their normal growing conditions in Northern California.

Carbon-Canyon

image from greenadventures.com

Carbon Canyon Regional Park is adjacent to Chino Hills State Park, which has 14,000 acres of protected park land (which just happens to have some great mountain biking). In addition to their most popular hike (to see the Orange County Redwoods) Carbon Canyon Regional Park has an interpretive center, picnic areas, restrooms, fishing, playgrounds, walking and hiking trails.

To tour the Redwoods at Carbon Canyon you can join OC Parks trained staff for an easy 1.1 mile hike to the redwoods. Use your 5 senses to engage with nature as you stroll to the Redwoods. You will also have an opportunity to learn about native plants along the way.

The hike takes place on the first Saturday of each month. The hike begins at the Nature Center located at the east end of the the park. Remember to bring water, sunscreen, hat and hiking shoes. All ages (small children may have to be carried). Reservations are preferred: call (714) 973-3160 or email carboncanyon@ocparks.com.

  • When: Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 8:30 – 10:00 am
  • Where: Carbon Canyon Regional Park, 4442 Carbon Canyon Rd., Brea CA 92823
  • Cost: Hike is FREE, parking is $5.00
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Mar
2016

Weekend Hikes

categories: Explore

WeekendHikes

There’s plenty to do this weekend with all the Spring Flings and Egg Hunts but if you have the chance for a hike with the family – here are a few options.

This is Orange County Parks short but very sweet list of FREE family friendly guided hikes for this weekend. Enjoy!

Saturday, March 26, 2016

California Native Plant Hike – Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Learn about the seasonal life of California Native Plants with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalist on this enjoyable 2.5 mile hike (45-ft elevation gain) over moderately uneven terrain.

  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (405 South to 133 south to stoplight at 73 turn-off; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right)
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324.
  • Parking: $3 per vehicle.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/26/2016
Time:  8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Family Hike: Agua Chinon – Irvine Ranch Open Space
Enjoy a slower-paced gradual-climb hike while watching for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. This activity originated in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

  • Pre-registration is required.
  • Driving directions will be provided after registration.
  • For more activities in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, click here.


Online Registration
Date:  3/26/2016
Time:  5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

 

Sunday, March 27, 2016

Guided Nature Hike – Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
Join the Park Ranger for a one mile nature hike in the beautiful Bell Canyon area of Caspers Wilderness Park. Hike lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for all ages.

  • Contact park office for hike updates.
  • Parking: $5 per vehicle (day use fee).
  • Meet at the Old Corral Day Use Area.
Date:  3/27/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Contact: (949) 923-2210 Add to my iCal: 
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Birding Walk – Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Spot native and winter resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 2-mile hike over uneven terrain (up to 400-ft. elevation gain) through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States.

  • For ages 12 and up (minors must be accompanied by an adult). Wear hiking or walking shoes and bring your binoculars.
  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.)
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324.
  • Parking: $3 per vehicle.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/27/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
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Mar
2016

A Hike for Dodgers Fans

categories: Explore
ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

I know usually focus on hikes in Orange County but this one is so cool I couldn’t help but post it. If you’re a Dodgers Fan – this is the hike for you! Dress in Dodger Blue, get your hiking boots, pack your snacks and plenty of water. Everyone’s Dodgers Hike  has a meetup coming up at Griffith Park.

The hikes are an average of 6 Miles and take approximately 3 Hours. Hikes are at an intermediate level and trail running or hiking shoes are mandatory.

  • When: Sunday, April 3rd, 2016 – meet at 6:30 am, hike begins at 6:45 am
  • Where: Griffith Park Merry Go Round Parking Lot 1, 4730 Crystal Springs Drive
    Los Angeles, CA 90027
  • Cost: FREE

If you want a nice place to grab a lunch and relax after the hike give “The Trails Cafe” a try.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

This place has such an awesome vibe and they have a great selection of vegetarian and Vegan options, coffees and amazing pie.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com
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Mar
2016

Spring Nature Days

categories: Explore
ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

Come to Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary as they present “Spring Nature Days”, a fun-filled two-day event that features guided nature walks, arts & crafts and a chance to talk with the staff.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary is 12 acre preserve that hosts walking trails, wildlife observations spots including a bird observation porch, creeks, picnic tables, a nature science center, a gift shop and hiking trails.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

Spring Nature Days will feature Guided Nature Hikes at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm. The one hour guided nature hikes are family friendly hikes where you can learn about the different types of wildlife that visits Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, while learning local history and visiting their animal ambassadors.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

Children can take part in making nature themed crafts throughout the day, such as a bird feeder, a sun catcher a flower mobile and more.

ProjectRefinedLifecom
ProjectRefinedLifecom

There will be FREE lemonade and cookies for the visitors at the nature science center. My girls had such a wonderful time here with hands on exhibits and great little gift shop. My girls bought some very nice hiking sticks at the gift shop that now go along with us on every hike.

ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

You can meet the staff of Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary and share some of your bird sightings throughout the day at the sanctuary while learning about some of the local flora and fauna located within in the sanctuary and in Orange County.

  • When: Thursday, March 31, 2106 and Friday, April 1, 2016 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Where: Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, 29322 Modjeska Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676
  • Cost: FREE but donations are gladly appreciated and help to maintain this beautiful facility.
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Mar
2016

Adventure Day

categories: Explore, Family fun
Image courtesy of letsgetoutside.org
Image courtesy of letsgetoutside.org

Adventure Day is a fun-filled family event that celebrates the 42nd anniversary of Caspers Wilderness Park. Enjoy a full schedule of guided hikes, arts and crafts, wildlife exhibits, games, and food.

Families and friends of all ages can partake in the numerous activities, including: wildlife-inspired games of ring toss, cowboy lasso, a scavenger hunt and storytelling. Learn about bugs, raptors, conservation, navigation, Native Americans and OC history!

Come to Caspers to not only have an ‘Adventure’ but also “Find a New Adventure” while talking with the exhibitors and exploring the trails. Whether it be buzzing with a Bee Keeper about the life of a bee, or listening to stories about the history of the Native Americans, or learning how to hike…Explore, Dream, Discover!

Some participants include: Reserve of Mission Viejo, OC Bird of Prey Center, Caspers Park Foundation, Inside the Outdoors, Journeys to the Past and more!

  • When: Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
  • Where: Caspers Wilderness Park, 33401 Ortega Highway San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
  • Cost: FREE
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Mar
2016

Hike, Bike or Run

categories: Explore, Ride
ProjectRefinedLife.com
ProjectRefinedLife.com

Hike, Bike or Run the trails this weekend at one of our beautiful OC Parks – there is something for everyone this weekend.

If the idea of walking slowly and learning about local Flora & Fauna, taking part in an Intermediate Mountain Bike ride, running through some trails or mediating in nature on the first day of spring is for you – an Orange County Parks Staff member will guide you through.

As always – these a and activities are FREE, just cover the parking! No excuses – #getoutthere and explore.

Saturday, March 19, 2106

The OC Chili Winter Trail Run Series – O’Neill Regional Park
The OC Chili Winter Trail Run Series will keep you motivated to stay fit during the winter months.
Click Here for more Info
Date:  3/19/2016
Time:  7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Geology Hike – Aliso & Wood Canyons Park
Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 4-mile geology hike (600-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain. Hike through the oak-filled woodland of Wood Canyon and continue to the park’s highest peak. We will pass by rock formations that tell of ancient floods, landslides and the building of a great shell-filled limestone reef. This hike is not for beginners!

  • Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park).
  • Bring water, hiking shoes (hiking poles suggested), snacks, the field guides of your choice, and a sense of adventure!
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324 Mon-Fri & (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.
  • For ages 15 and up.
  • Parking: Free.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/19/2016
Time:  9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Explore the Bay Family Hike – Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
An easy hike for families of all ages to learn more about Upper Newport Bay and enjoy its trails. 

  • Hike will be on paved and dirt trails
  • Bring sun protection and water
  • Meet on the patio of the Muth Interpretive Center
  • No fee or pre-registration required
Date:  3/19/2016
Time:  10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
The Flora and Fauna of Weir Canyon – Irvine Ranch Open Space
Hike through the beautiful oak woodlands of Weir Canyon Nature Preserve, a protected wilderness area home to a wide variety of wildlife including mule deer, bobcat, coyotes, red-tailed hawks and more. Learn about the native flora of the canyon that sustains the native wildlife.

  • Pre-registration is required.
  • Driving directions will be provided after registration.
  • For more activities in Weir Canyon Nature Preserve, click here.


Online Registration
Date:  3/19/2016
Time:  9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

 

Sunday, March 20, 2016

Guided Nature Hike – Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
Join the Park Ranger for a one mile nature hike in the beautiful Bell Canyon area of Caspers Wilderness Park. Hike lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for all ages.

  • Contact park office for hike updates.
  • Parking: $5 per vehicle (day use fee).
  • Meet at the Old Corral Day Use Area.
Date:  3/20/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Introduction to Mountain Biking –  Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer Mountain Bike Trail Assistants on this beautiful 8-mile bike ride (400-ft. elevation gain) on uneven terrain. Learn mountain biking basics and trail etiquette while enjoying the canyon views.

  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Ridge Park Staging Area. Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Road, east to end, meet at the gate.
  • Please come prepared with a bike suitable for off-pavement riding, sturdy shoes, helmet, gloves, water and snack.
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324 Mon-Fri & (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.
  • Parking: Free.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/20/2016
Time:  8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Intermediate Mountain Biking – Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Catch beautiful canyon views on this 10-mile ride over steep and uneven terrain (1,600-ft elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer mountain bike trail assistants. This is for INTERMEDIATE riders with mountain biking experience. Appropriate mountain biking equipment required.

  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Ridge Park Staging Area. Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Road, east to end: meet at the gate.
  • Must have helmet, gloves, hydration; a snack is strongly suggested. Be prepared for varied weather in the canyons.
  • This bike ride is not for beginners.
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324 Mon-Fri & (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.
  • Parking: $3 per vehicle.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/20/2016
Time:  8:30 AM – 10:30 AM

 

Meditating in Nature – Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Relax in nature on the first daytime in spring with park staff and Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.  Enjoy a short walking meditation (1/2 mile), breathing and energization exercises, and sitting meditation.

  • Bring a blanket, pillow, and clothing in layers in case the evening is cool.
  • No experience necessary.
  • Ages 16 and up.
  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405).
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324.
  • Parking: $3 per vehicle.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/20/2016
Time:  5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
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Mar
2016

Queen Mary – Free After 3

categories: Budget/Bargains/Deals, Explore, Family fun
Image courtesy of the Queen Mary Facebook Page
Image courtesy of the Queen Mary Facebook Page

The Queen Mary is celebrating their 80th Anniversary of the Queen Mary’s Maiden Voyage and to kick off the celebration, they are offering free entry to the ship on March 24th after 3:00 pm.

They will be will be offering enriching historical tours for just $5 and although it’s full on the 24th, they will launch “The Salon Series” a monthly evening of entertaining public programming for guests of all ages.

In the new “The Salon Series” guests will enjoy curated entertainment situated in the elegant design and classic sophistication of one of the Queen Mary’s historic salons – Queen, Royal and Grand – unrivaled in their beauty and comfort.

The Salon Series will present a collection of films, musical performances, lectures and more designed exclusively for the series.

March 24th FREE After 3 will feature:

  • FREE ACCESS to the Queen Mary from 3PM until closing*
  • Movie screening in the Queen’s Salon. Limited seating for the film screening. (SOLD OUT)
  • $5 ship tours all evening
  • $5 4D-Theater Experience
  • Discounted Parking – $10 flat rate parking after 3PM

The Queen Mary is located at: 1126 Queens Hwy Long Beach, CA

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Mar
2016

Hikes & Bikes

categories: Explore

hikesnBikesPRLWith the rain coming in I don’t how likely it is that any of these events will happen….but here’s the information on the slim chance that they do.

There’s only one hike scheduled but there’s a great choice of mountain bikes rides this weekend. Whatever the the weather, have a great one!

Saturday, March 12, 2016

Family Bandito Bike Ride to Dripping Cave – Aliso & Wood Canyons Park
Join a band of bike wielding young explorers on a ride to Aliso’s most intriguing attraction. We’ll learn the mysterious legends of this famed bandit hideout as well as about its previous inhabitants – the Acjachemen people.

  • For those who can comfortably ride 5 miles (150 ft. elevation gain) on dirt trails with some sandy sections.
  • Children ages 8 and up, or younger if peddled by an adult.
  • Bike, helmet, water, snack, and weather appropriate clothing/shoes are required.
  • Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, then left into parking lot).
  • For questions, call (949) 497-8324 Mon-Fri & (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.
  • Parking: $3 per vehicle.
  • Please sign-up online using link below.


Online Registration
Date:  3/12/2016
Time:  9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

 

Sunday March 13, 2016

Guided Nature Hike – Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
Join the Park Ranger for a one mile nature hike in the beautiful Bell Canyon area of Caspers Wilderness Park. Hike lasts approximately one hour and is suitable for all ages.

  • Contact park office for hike updates.
  • Parking: $5 per vehicle (day use fee).
  • Meet at the Old Corral Day Use Area.
Date:  3/13/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Slow-Paced Mountain Bike Ride: Weir Canyon and Santiago Oaks Regional Park – Irvine Ranch Open Space
Join a slow-paced docent-led mountain bike ride – designed for the intermediate rider who is in excellent shape but needs to move slower in more technical areas – beneath a canopy of coastal live oaks in the historic Weir Canyon Nature Preserve.

  • Pre-registration is required.
  • Driving directions will be provided after registration.
  • For more activities in Weir Canyon Nature Preserve, click here.


Online Registration
Date:  3/13/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Moderate-Paced Ride: Limestone Canyon via Hicks Haul Road and Loma Ridge – Irvine Ranch Open Space
This moderate-paced ride – designed for the intermediate rider who has experience and skills but needs to move slower in more technical areas – climbs approximately 1,600 feet over an 11- to 14-mile journey in 2.5 hours. Participants must wear a helmet and carry water, snacks, spare tubes and tools. Your bike must be trail-worthy and in good working condition.

  • Pre-registration is required.
  • Driving directions will be provided after registration.
  • For more activities in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, click here.


Online Registration
Date:  3/13/2016
Time:  8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
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