NATURAL INSTINCTS
TAKE A HIKE …
SOUTH BAY STYLE
WRITTEN BY STEFAN SLATER
When it comes to experiencing the great outdoors in the South Bay, the surf gets all the attention. But if you’re looking to keep your feet firmly planted on terra firma while still communing with nature, check out our top six hiking trails between Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes.
SAND DUNE PARK, MANHATTAN BEACH
Sure, this isn’t your typical hike, but it’s a great way to get a little exercise while enjoying a panoramic view of Manhattan Beach. The 100-foot dune is a fun climb that’s open to all ages (intrepid hikers under age 5 need an adult hiking partner.) But if you’re looking for something a bit easier, there’s also a series of nicely paved manmade trails that switchback their way toward the top. At the bottom, there’s a playground and picnic area for the little ones. If you’re planning to visit the park, anyone over the age of 13 is required to make a reservation ahead of time, and you can do so on the city of Manhattan Beach’s website. Make sure to show up on time with a photo I.D. and $1. Hikers 55 years or older may use the dune on a walk-up basis. Open seven days a week.
TORRANCE
MADRONA MARSH PRESERVE, TORRANCE
Did you ever wonder what the South Bay looked like before, you know, civilization rolled up? Look no further than the Madrona Marsh. This 10-acre vernal marsh is considered the last of its kind in L os Angeles, and it’s smack in the middle of Torrance. It might be small, but on a good day you can see all sorts of avian life—ranging from hawks and blackbirds to meadowlarks and finches. There’s also an ongoing effort to restore natural flora (mostly wildflowers) and insects to the area. The city of Torrance works with the Friends of the Madrona Marsh to run the Madrona Marsh Nature Center, REDONDO which offers nature walks, natural history classes, art exhibits and nature programs for children. Open Tuesday to Sunday.BEACH
HERMOSA BEACH MANHATTAN BEACH
SHIPWRECK HIKE, TORRANCE AND PALOS VERDES
While you can technically do the Shipwreck Hike from Torrance, you can also park in the residential area above Flat Rock Point, hike down to the beach and walk over to Bluff Cove heading south to Rocky Point. At the base of the point is the wreck of the Greek freighter The Dominator, which ran aground in 1961. Some of the wreck is still visible at low tide, but don’t expect to see a massive, rusting hulk lying on its side. Most of the vessel has been battered to pieces by decades of wave action. With that said, it can be a fun little adventure to explore the wreckage that’s still left. This can be challenging hike, especially if you start from Torrance, so wear sturdy shoes—you’ll be doing quite a bit of rock-scrambling. This hike is only doable if the weather is clear and the surf is small, so check for any advisories before heading out.
18? Southbay Health 2013 | oursouthbay.com