Local Trail Spotlight: El Dorado Nature Center

I live in Lakewood Ca in the urban jungle of Southern California finding good trails to hike can be tough task. Especially when one of my work shift gets off at 5pm. The freeways are jam packed, so getting to the local mountains at that time takes way to long and an enjoyable hike is just not as enjoyable. Fortunately for me there are a few hidden gems locally where I can work up a good sweat and get a great hike. Some the whole family can enjoy, some are stroller friendly if you have a BOB or similar type off road stroller they work great. Others are great if you have a kid pack they can ride in and then some are more for the experienced hiker. I will be spotlighting a trail or two each week. This week I figured I would start with the two that are the closest to me.


EL DORADO NATURE CENTER

A great spot for the whole family, besides the dog is El Dorado Park Nature Center. Located on Spring street in Long Beach. Once your in the Nature Center it is hard to believe you are still in Long Beach. Open from 8am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday.  The Nature center offers a 1/4 mile paved loop under a great tree canopy, a 1 mile and 2 mile dirt loop that loops around lakes and streams. The dirt trail is great for walking and strollers. This is a great spot for the kid to see all different types of local wildlife, from ducks, birds, squirrels, rabbits, turtles and more. Stop by the main lodge and let the kids explore. They have a hands on area where kids can touch and feel all types of bones and antlers. Plus there are a few aquariums that have some living creatures in them. Don't forget to get a scavenger card for the kids before you take off on your adventure.