Hiking the Cliffs - Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Not So Green, But Still Gorgeous

Growing up in Ohio I got quite used to nature being very green. The thick forests and endless green fields was something that I saw as being synonymous with nature. Out here in Southern California that quite often is not the case. In fact, there is quite a lot of desert out here.

If I am being perfectly honest, I wasn't really a big fan of this desert version of nature when I first got here. However, I have definitely grown to appreciate it.

Recently we've been doing evening walks in the neighboring town of Rancho Palos Verdes where there are many of these trails that follow along the pacific coastline.

Protected Habitat

The trails are dry and dusty, making the beautiful contrast of the ocean backdrop that much more stunning. As you can see, there is railing all along the path on either side, primarily for safety reasons, but also to keep people from leaving the trail.

I am no expert on plants, but apparently there are a lot of endangered desert plants that are indigenous to the area, so they really don't want us stepping on them. If I am being honest, from my ignorant perspective they already look dead, but what do I know!

You really have to watch your step around this place. The ground is not exactly solid and it's easy to slip. You can see Amanda there at the top of the hill waiting for me while I snap some photos from my phone.

The above shot was the view just behind me from the previous shot - you can see how slipping could get you into a bit of trouble! That would not be a fun drop.

The climb, however is worth it because we really enjoy stopping at this little bench to enjoy the view for a few minutes.

It's kind of funny to me that they've decided to put this picnic table in this particular location, though. I would never bring food up here to eat for one simple reason. It's incredibly windy up here, and there is nothing to break it.

Trying to have a picnic here would be quite the disaster! I often wonder if anyone has tried to bring a date up here for a romantic lunch. That would have to be something to see.

We usually stay out here until the sun sets as it is quite the amazing spot to enjoy it. At this point the sun is already just about over the horizon.

It was just the perfect moment to get this awesome shot of Catalina Island off in the distance. It was a particularly clear day today so it was a perfect time to capture it. It's hard to believe that the island is 22 miles from the coast!