Waterfalls, Wildflowers, Wildlife Hikes

In that mid-stretch between winter and spring some of nature is showcasing its best bling. From a waterfall hike and bloomiful trails to wildlife sanctuaries and wild birds galore, here are some places to find nature’s shoulder season bounties.

Week: 02.25.2025
Regions: Southern CA

Three Sisters

Hike to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest

Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian
Hikers descending the canyon trail to reach Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern Califronia
Hiker standing and looking at the Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest San Diego County
Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.
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Mini Guide to Reno Tahoe’s Lodging and Dining

Where to Stay and Eat in Reno

So, you’re going to Reno Tahoe for some time in nature, and some time in nurture? Excellent choice. The fun and wonder of Reno Tahoe is the easy part.
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Seal the Bluffing Deal

Hiking, Wildflowers and Harbor Seals at Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve

Woman sitting perched on a Bluff overlooking seals at Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
Woman sitting perched on a Bluff overlooking seals at Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
We love aquariums, but there’s something special about viewing adorable, blubbery harbor seals in their natural habitat—namely Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve. An easy 1-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike on the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail gets you to an overlook from which you
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Gulls Getaway

Wildlife Trip to Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park

The Anacapa wildlife spectacle begins almost as soon as you pull away from Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. First up are playful common dolphins, and if you’re lucky, humpback and migrating gray whales. As you approach, you’ll see (and hear) noisy California sea lions and harbor seals.
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    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

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  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

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  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

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    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

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