Wine-ding Trails

Malibu Wines

Hiking trails have been our theme the last few months because there are so many wonderful escapes in LA. But I do think we’ve saved the best for last. It’s time to hit the Malibu trails and raise a glass to your health at Malibu Wines. There are several trails in Malibu, check out This Hiking Trail for recommendations and the 411 on each trail – they have all the info on dog friendly trails too!

Malibu Wines is an oasis in and of itself, my pictures didn’t do the scenery justice, but as you can see there are plenty of adirondack chairs surrounding the outdoor tasting room. A great place to rest after your hike! The 2004 Semler Cabernet Sauvignon is a crowd favorite, but we happen to love the 2008 Saddlerock Rose.

Our health tip: stay hydrated on the trails (and on the drive home), relax and remember all that you love about living in LA!

It’s Pumpkin Time!

Fall is upon us Angelenos and that means that the weather gets slightlycooler and (in most places) there is a crisp new scent to the air. It also means that pumpkin patches crop up everywhere. Sure you can go to your local store or to the “patch” on the next block but why not venture out to the fields this year?

This weekend, my husband and I had the pleasure of going to Lombardi Ranch in Santa Clarita. Along the way we drove by ranches and farmland that make you feel more like you are in the mid-west. After about 4 miles on Bouquet Canyon Road you stumble upon Lombardi. Well…maybe stumble is not the right word.

Lombardi Ranch is hard to miss, people direct you where to park and there is a big sign that reads “pumpkins.” Upon our arrival, the local Saugus High School band had just started playing which added to the excitement. 

Oh! The pumpkins are amazing. Although they are already picked from the patch, you still feel as though you are out in the field. Big “Mac” pumpkins, tiny pumpkins and all sizes in between mean that there are choices to be made. The various and vibrant shades of orange and all of the white pumpkins too, make the decision about which one to take home even more difficult! The pumpkin pictured is the one we finally chose – we loved the huge stem!

The ranch is surrounded by corn fields and those up for a little challenge can try out the corn maze. They also sell fresh corn on the cob, which is delicious!! If you are longing to take home some of the savory goodness, you can stop by their on-site market to buy some corn at 75 cents a piece. And who can resist purchasing their other fresh produce – peaches, peppers, apples, egg plant, squash and more!!  

The ranch is a great place to take the family and there is a lot to do and see that would please the little ones.  There is a small menagerie, which include animals that you would expect to see on a farm, chickens, pigs, turkeys, sheep and a llama. Oh my!

Pumpkins, corn, fresh produce, a petting zoo and local entertainment make the Lombardi Ranch a definite place for a fall visit and to take some great pictures.  It might mean a little of a drive but what a way to spend a Fall hour. For more information click here: Lombardi Ranch

Franklin Canyon Park

Mulholland Drive may be a movie, but it is also a street that has some great hiking trails branching off the main road.

Franklin Canyon Park is the starting point for many of those trails which are suitable for all levels of hiker. If you are looking for more of a challenge you can park at top of the park by the upper reservoir and walk down to any of the trail heads. If you are looking for a more leisurely stroll, you can park closer to the lower reservoir. Either way, you will experience the sites and sounds that are not typically associated with LA.

Birds of many different species (even ducks!) can be seen and heard in the Park. And if you want to learn more about the flora and fauna you can schedule a naturalist tour with a park ranger. Looking for a little more of a challenging hike? Trek to the top of one of the trails that lead above the canyon floor for a view of the city.

Simply put, Franklin Canyon Park is a great place to awaken the senses, get out in nature and celebrate all of the fabulous places we Angelenos can escape to, even when we only have an hour or two.

Click here for more information on Franklin Canyon Park.

Hike Among Lush Gardens

Japanese Garden at Descanso Gardens

Looking to get outdoors this weekend but are longing for more than a dusty trail? How about retreating to a lush spot just outside the “big city.” Descanso Gardens is where you can please your body and soul. It’s 1.8 mile chaparral trail winds around lush gardens, koi ponds and big lawn areas. You can explore freely or take a respite on a bench or blanket to enjoy your surroundings. Bring a camera, a sketch book and your imagination. You can spend an hour or if you have time, the better part of a day.

More than just gardens, Descanso Gardens is part of the rich history of Los Angeles. Learn about the Gabrielino Indians, the claiming of the area for the King of Spain and how the property came into the hands of E. Manchester Boddy, publisher of the Los Angeles Daily News. Boddy built a mansion on it’s grounds which now provides eye candy for those who love art and architecture.

And if you get hungry, the Patina Group operates their café and offers fresh salads and sandwiches. There are also picnic tables right outside the gates so you can always pack a lunchbox treat!

Descanso Gardens is located at:
1418 Descanso Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Hours:
9am – 5pm

Cost:
General Admission: $8
Seniors: $6
Kids (5-12): $3
Kids Under 5 are free

For more information:
www.decansogardens.org