What is National Trails Day?:
National Trails Day was set in place by the American Hiking Association as a day to raise awareness and celebrate over 200,000 well maintained trails in America. Exploring different trails offers people a way to escape into Mother Nature, be surrounded by beautiful scenery, experience wildlife in its natural habitat, breathe in fresh air, and supports an active lifestyle. National Trails Day brings beginner and expert hikers, bikers, horseback riders, walkers, joggers, rock climbers, and other outdoorsy people together.
How to Get Involved:
Today is a day to take advantage of fun activities and events that are being held near you. It is also a day to volunteer to help conserve these magnificent trails. Trails need maintenance and this is a great way to show your appreciation! To get involved with local volunteer events, visit sites like AmericanHiking.org, REI.com, and nationalforests.org. The American Hiking Association sponsors activities all across the US and can assist you in hosting your own activity by visiting their website by clicking the link above. If you see a volunteer around, show them some appreciation, it's hard work to keep these trails maintained and safe for everyone!
For Hikers and Photographers:
Murphy’s Ranch is located about 35 minutes west of Beverly Hills in the Pacific Palisade Mountains. This abandoned site was once supposed to serve as a self-sustaining mansion Utopia for one very wealthy family in the 1930s. Some of the Mansion plans included a 4 car garage, indoor pool, servants’ quarter, and multiple ballrooms and social rooms. Part way through the site’s construction, right before the beginning of WW11, plans were halted and then quickly forgotten about. This site was then left to conspiracy theorists, amateur historians, and other enthusiasts, to speculate the original purpose. The most popular theory being that the site was once a Nazi regime camp. Today, the buildings are falling apart and covered in graffiti, which makes for some wild exploration and great chances to capture some captivating photographs.
For the Whole Family:
Griffith Park is a right-of-passage and has to be on the list. Not only is it a famous hike with a great view of the famous Hollywood sign, but it is also one of the only places in LA with free parking! Win and WIN! There are two different trails you can take to get to the sign, the first trail will take you on a 6 mile route and the other will take you on a 3 mile one. Both trails are very well maintained with little incline, so either would be perfect for the whole family, especially when considering young children, seniors, and leashed dogs. Once you reach the end of the hike, you will be directly behind the sign with an incredible view of LA, a perfect photo opportunity.
Where ever you venture to, make sure to snap a photo and tag us to share! Happy trails.
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