Step out on local nature walks
Spring has arrived, as has its warmer weather and bounty of beautiful sights. You can get out into nature just about anywhere, but here are a few local spaces worth exploring: Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve: At 1,449 acres, the Bolsa Chica Wetlands is reportedly the largest saltwater marsh between Monterey Bay and the Tijuana River Estuary. Year-round, salt water enters the wetlands through Anaheim Bay in Seal Beach as well as via a tidal inlet just north of Seapoint Avenue along PCH. During the rainy season, fresh water flows into the wetlands from the Wintersburg Flood Control Channel and creates brackish conditions typical of an estuary. There are approximately 5 miles of trails here, open to walkers, joggers, disabled visitors, photographers, and birders and other nature-lovers (but not dogs or bicycles). In addition to rare and endangered species, be aware that the wetlands are also home to rattlesnakes, black widows, poison oak and other less-friendly species, so be sure to stay on designated trails. For more information and directions, visit wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Placesto- Visit/Bolsa-Chica-ER.
El Dorado Nature Center:
The Long Beach wildlife habitat is home to a wide variety of grasses, shrubs and trees, most of them native to California. Follow 2 miles of dirt trails around two lakes, a stream and forested areas in this 105-acre sanctuary for local wildlife. The center staff recommend you walk the trails—no pets or bikes allowed—and leave everything as you found it so that the animals and plants continue to thrive. Get more details at www.longbeach.gov/park/parkand- facilities/parks-centers-pier/ el-dorado-nature-center/.
Ralph B. Clark Regional Park: The 104-acre park in Buena Park offers hiking trails through Camel and Elephant hills and along sheer sandstone cliffs. For less steady walkers, there are also paved trails from which to view wildflowers and other native plants. A map and more details are available at www.ocparks.com/ parks/ralph.
