Spring semester is here and many students might be wondering what to do with their spare time between classes.
Spending time in nature is proven to do good both physically and mentally.
There are many hikes around campus, ranging from a few hours, to day-long hikes and even backpacking trips.
Eucalyptus Loop
Eucalyptus Loop, with a difficulty level of easy, is a 3.1 mile round trip with a 406-foot elevation gain and it’s about 20 minutes from campus.
This hike is located in the Chino Hills area and has a lot of foot traffic.
Hikers are permitted to take a leashed dog on this trail and mountain biking is allowed.
Shade is highly limited on this trail, so plenty of water and proper sun protection gear is important for hikers.
Along the trail, livestock such as horses and steers dot the landscape.
“You get really nice views from the top of it,” said Sabrina Sicre, a third-year hospitality student. “At first it is hard because in the beginning, you are going up a steep incline but once you get to the top it gets easier, plus the horses are really cool to see.”
Bonelli Park View Trail
About 10 minutes from campus, Bonelli Park View Trail is one of the three hikes that Bonelli Park, in the San Dimas/La Verne area, has to offer.
This trail is marked as an easy difficulty level and is a 4.1 mile trail that has 341 feet of elevation gain and is moderately trafficked.
Leashed dogs are also permitted on this trail as well as mountain biking.
Puddingstone Lake and the San Gabriel Mountains are included on the views from this trail and the terrain ranges from paved, half-dirt trail to road.
There is a parking fee at the park but there is also a free parking lot up the road right of the 57 freeway, which is just a short walk from the park.
Schabarum Trail Loop
A short 15-minute drive from campus is Schabarum Trail Loop, located in Rowland Heights.
This trail’s difficulty level is easy and it’s a 2.3 mile round trip with a 295-foot elevation gain and also allows dogs.
Schabarum Park offers a couple other trails that are rated with higher difficulty.
The park also has paved paths throughout, in case hikers want to take a peaceful stroll instead of a more demanding hike.
Depending on the day, the park may charge for parking.
Hiking tips before you go
If one does plan to go out and hike there are a few important things to know.
- Be aware of the weather conditions to make sure proper attire including proper shoe wear is used for the variety of terrains.
- Water — it is important to take enough water because it’s easy to get dehydrated on the trail.
- If the hike is more than a few hours, it is important to pack snacks. Also, let someone know where you are going.
School can be stressful and it’s crucial to get out, exercise and get some sunlight.