Join this teen and ‘tween youth-friendly hike (minimum age 10) departing from Nix Nature center into the pristine habitat of Shady Canyon. We’ll hike 5 miles on a mix of single-track trails and old ranch roads. Our hike will start with a climb that rewards us with spectacular views of the surrounding hills. We will then enter the backcountry of Shady Canyon and its mature Coastal Sage community, then finally return along the ridge with fantastic views overlooking Laguna Canyon.
About the Hike
This hike has an elevation gain of 1,000 feet and we’ll be moving at a moderate rate of 2–3 miles per hour with frequent brief stops as we encounter native plants and signs of animals. Some of the hills are strenuous and we will take breaks as needed. Participants must be in good physical condition, have a good attitude, and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes.
Learning Objectives
Brief trailside presentations will cover skills useful for independently enjoying the open spaces during wilderness access days including map & compass use, animal & plant identification, hazards & safety, Leave No Trace principles, and conservation service project opportunities.
Specifics for Scouts
Each registered Scouting program adult volunteer may sign up as a household with up to four participating youth under their supervision. Scouting program participants will have the opportunity for experiential learning in the following areas:
Girl Scouts USA journeys: Trail Adventure, Eco Trekker
ScoutsBSA requirements: 2nd class 3a–c, 4; 1st class 4b, 5a; Nature merit badge 4–6
Age: 10 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. See ‘Specific for Scouts’ section above for exceptions.
Location: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651, East side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133)
Parking: $3/car at Nix Nature Center parking lot. Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged.
Difficulty Rating: 3/5
Materials: Please come prepared with the trail essentials: a backpack, plenty of water (at least 1 liter), snacks, sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sun protection, first aid kit, and any other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail. Each hiker must carry their own water and supplies. Under-prepared participants may be denied access to the event.
Safety precautions and protocols:
Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.
Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.
