Secret Gardens

We’d be surprised if you’ve heard of, let alone visited, all three of the “secret” gardens we highlight this week. Such is the beauty of SoCal, where natives and exotics grow in abundance, and fantastic preserves showcase them for our walking and viewing pleasure. Secret's out!

Week: 11.30.2017
Regions: Southern CA

California in 86 Acres

Visiting Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont

Sometimes the biggest secrets are, well, big. Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is an 86-acre gem, hidden away in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in Claremont. In a way, it’s as big as all of California, given its dedication to the native plants (more than 2,000 species!
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Oregon's Ultimate Ski Town

Winter Vacation in Oregon at Bend and Mt Bachelor

It’s something that Oregonians have known for a while and Californians are just beginning to realize: Bend is the ultimate mountain town for the whole family! And in the winter, it has everything you’d want for a snowy extended weekend. In the midst of the Cascade Mountains, Mt.
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Mediterranean Diet

Visiting Niguel Botanical Preserve in Orange County

Visiting Niguel Botanical Preserve in Orange County
Niguel Botanical Preserve features a variety of vegetation, both native and from the similar climates of Australia, Chile, South Africa. It's also got a cool little labyrinth.
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Around the World in San Diego

Visiting San Diego Botanic Garden

Ah, what wonders grow when the weather is perpetually delightful! Such is the case in San Diego, where the San Diego Botanic Garden is able to grow a ridiculous 4,000-plus species of plants in 37 acres across 30 different microclimate gardens.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

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  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

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  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

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  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

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    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

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  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

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