Lost Palms Oasis

Your destination: Lost Palms Oasis

Lost Palms Oasis 

Trailhead: Unnamed road off Pinto Basin Road, Joshua Tree National Park, CA 92277

Type: Outdoors
Category: Hike, Recreation, Fitness
Company: Hikers and Climbers
Cost: $15/vehicle (park permit)
Tip: Make sure to stop at the visitor center to get a park permit for your car (for $15 you get 7 days)

Review: 

Mastodon Peak

Why walk when you can hike, boulder, climb, scramble, run, and view? If you're ever in the area, seek out Lost Palms Oasis. Roughly 7.2 mile round trip, this hike is fantastically rewarding. Make sure to take the slight detour up Mastodon Peak for a 360 view for the miles of surrounding desert.

Tip: Follow the trail and keep going until you get to the Oasis - we found a few of the trail markers to be prematurely misleading, so the best rule of walk is to keep going until you spot the Oasis (it's truly hard to miss a bouquet of gigantic prehistoric palm trees) - which is where the trail literally and officially ends.

Make sure to wear sunscreen, bring water, and most absolutely - a camera of some kind. All cell reception is obsolete once you enter Joshua Tree park, so be careful when you climb and be mindful of the daylight.

En route to the Oasis

This is a great trail. Well-paved with satisfying variation, there's been enough use to mitigate any factor that might get you lost (we did a bit, but don't I always). Desert hiking is a great twist to my usual opt for vertical ascent, as you can go further in a shorter period of time (and get to check out the cacti, snake holes, and the sun setting behind the mountain line). 

Inside the Oasis

Los Liones Hike

Los Liones Hike
W. Sunset Blvd & Los Liones Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90272

Type: Outdoors
Category: Fitness & Recreation
Company: Everyone but your dog
Cost: Free!
Tip: Bring a liter of water, no fountains here

Review:
This is my go-to local hike. Ravenous views of the lovely west-coast beaches and the downtown skyline all in one panoramic, this 7.3 mile hike is perfect for a sturdy workout but fair enough for the most anti-hikers of them all.

Quite simply, it's straight up hill until the lookout point #1 (bench included) at about 1.3 miles from the start. Continue until you hit a junction that points you to the .5 for Parker Mesa - this is the finale to the outlook.

Tip: Bring your camera/phone - amazing pictures are a must!

CrossFit SandBox

CrossFit SandBox
925 Wilshire Bvd
Santa Monica, 90401

Type: Indoor, Classes
Category: Exercise
Company: If you like to workout, check it out!
Tip: Bring water, wear sneakers, and get ready to sweat

Review:
As a self-professed hater of plyometrics, I've been known to avoid any exercise regime that even comes close to including pull-ups, burpees, or planks. But then again, I'm also aware of the importance of mixing it up - so, when a friend sent me an invite to his recently opened box (term for a crossfit studio) I thought I'd stop in and try it out.

Huge and clean, to start, which is rare for any kind of gym. Mats and bars on one end, bell-ball weights and rowing machines and stepping stools on the others. At first it looks like it has the potential for torture, but as the whiteboard and clock come in to focus, you'll slowly realize that you are your own competition. I know, what?

Well, each WOD (workout of the day) is written up on a whiteboard and sits next to a stop clock. The class begins with a group warm up, a lesson or two about technique, and then gets to the meat and end by a series of a handful of exercises (the one I did was burpees, squats, kettle lifts, and pull ups). We did this seven times each and for seven rounds. Sure, everyone is going as fast as they can, but the goal is to get a time - and then try to beat it the next time.

Everyone at the SandBox was extremely welcoming, patient, and friendly. I highly recommend giving it a try, and coming from the mouth and muscles of someone who hates short bursts of strenuous movement, it must be worth the salt. Check it out!

Hangar 18

Hangar 18
Indoor Rock Climbing
Locations in Southbay, Riverside, and Upland

Type: Indoor
Category: Active/Fitness
Company: Anyone who wants to try a new (and addictive activity).  Those afraid of heights need not apply.
Cost: $16 for a day pass (doesn't include gear); $50 for a monthly membership (includes gear)
Follow Hangar 18 on Facebook

OTC Tip: College students (with a valid ID) can get a monthly pass for $35

Review:
Yes, I know indoor rock climbing isn't the same thing as outdoor climbing, but it's still a blast - and much easier to partake in. There are three locations in SoCal - I've been climbing at the Southbay facility with no complaints.

If you have no clue how to climb, or what a belay is and/or does, have no fear.  With a monthly pass comes a free intro lesson. (You can also buy training separately with a day pass).  The instructor will teach you basic knot tying techniques, climbing terms, and how to safely get down from the top of the wall.

For those of you who have no clue how indoor climbing works, it's pretty simple.  Each wall has color-coded holds, which are marked off by a rating system (5.7, 5.8, etc.).  The number after the decimal indicates the degree of difficulty of the climb - higher the number, harder the climb. Hard can mean that there are very few holds, or that they are small and hard to grip, or a combination of the two.  Some walls have inverted sections, while others require the climber to utilize multiple walls. And yes, each wall is already set with a rope to allow a buddy to belay you.  In fact, some walls have self-assisting belays set up, so you can climb completely solo.  Whatever your skill level, Hangar 18 has climbs for you.
There are also a large number of bouldering walls.  Bouldering is basically the act of climbing low (but often inverted) walls without the aid of a rope. Should the climber fall, there are mats below to break the (short) fall.

OTC TIP: While Hangar 18 provides basic climbing training, they didn't give any insight on technique.  And knowing a thing or two will definitely make your climbing experience more enjoyable.  As cool and fun as it is to do "Cliffhanger" type jump-and-grabs, it is the dumb way to climb.  Focus on using your legs as much as possible.  If you have to pause, make sure your arms are as low as possible, to keep the blood flowing (don't have them extended high above your head).

Regarding the fact that you are relatively high off of the ground, don't worry.  After the first few climbs, you won't even realize that you are two stories off the ground.  Trust me.  Maybe...

Feel Good Today: Volume 1

Feel Good Today: Volume 1
Remember The Moments.

Candied Bacon @ M Street Kitchen

Eat:
M Street Kitchen
At its best for breakfast/brunch. Sit outside. Order the Havana Latte (condensed milk is what makes this a true treat). With whatever else you get, make sure to include the bacon (it's candied!) and one of the house-made, face-sized english muffins.

Sweat:
Santa Monica Stairs
Park up San Vicente or along Ocean and run to the base to warm up your legs. Walk/climb/run up, then jog back down and around so you save your knees. Drink a lot of water. Take in the view of the ocean at the top.

Connect:
MeatHead Movers
Employing student athletes, aside from being a fantastic group of movers MeatHead also invests ample time in to local community service. "Providing premium moving services as well as assisting victims of domestic violence with a fresh start in life," if you're ever in need of moving services choose the group that gives back.

The best movers I've ever had (and easy on the eyes)!

The Beach Barcycle

Eco-Friendly Bar Hopping

Beach Barcycle

South Bay & Santa Monica

Facebook

Type: Outdoors

Category: Bar, Adventure, Fitness

Company: Friends

Cost: Varies

Quickie: Communal table on wheels, powered by your choice of booze.

Review:

If you haven’t seen it yet you’ll see it soon – and if you’re wondering what ‘it’ is, if you see a 16-seat trolly-like contraption centepeding its way from bar to bar in Santa Monica then you’ve spotted the Beach Barcycle. Simply put, the notion is a mode of transportation while bar hopping that lets you sit and chat with your fellow riders, work off some of the alcohol between drinks (each seat is equipped like a bike) and get plenty of gawking attention.

Where: South Bay (Redondo, Hermosa), Westside (Santa Monica, Venice)

What: SoCal’s version of the party limo: green, open-air, and equipped for exercise

Who: You and your friends, or join a pre-scheduled tour

Why: Arrive on the Barcycle and you get drink specials at each stop

As any SoCalian 21 and over has considered, there are many perks that come with arriving at a bar on a bike. The first is that you don’t have to find or pay for parking. The second is that you don’t have to fret about losing your keys (or having them taken away from you). The third is that you get the chance to burn off some of the calories (before you eat that 1 am pizza) and the fourth is that you don’t have to pay for a cab.

But the Barcycle makes the notion better (and won’t mess up your hair). In lieu of signing up for a pre-determined tour, you and your gaggle of friends can rent one out for a customized map that highlights your favorite stops. Indeed, day drinking and bar hopping just got better – after all, why crawl when you can pedal?

Revolution Fitness

Revolution Fitness 

Santa Monica/Venice

Rates

Review:

You know the feeling – the one that rises when you start humming the next song on your playlist before it begins, or the sense of ho-hum as you’re half way through your “usual” run – basically, your body telling you that it’s time to switch it up.

Always looking for something new, when I heard about Revolution Fitness I was thrilled: initially because it offers classes I hadn't heard of before, but more importantly because it provides access to an entire menu of workouts for a chance to get my fix for several days.

What: Indoor Fitness Studio

Cost: Single class, private training, and monthly passes available

Unique: In addition to classic Spinning, Yoga, and Pilates, Revolution Fitness also offers Indo-Row, Core-Barre, Rev 20/20/20 and Rev 30/30 classes

Yes, I know you’ve heard of spinning and yoga. But Indo-Row, Core-Barre, and Rev 30/30 were all new to me. So I tried them. All of them. One after the other, for three days straight.

Indo-Row

Indo-Row: Group “erg” sessions. Welcome back to crew workout 101, you jump on the contraption that after a few minutes renders you feeling like you’ve been running stairs and lifting weights at the same time. Great workout if you miss feeling your abs, the glute muscles you forgot about and the butt muscles you never knew you had.  Add a reminisce of post-yoga zen from all the regulated breathing through your nose and mouth and walk out glowing in red-cheeked sweat. 

Core-Barre

Core-Barre: Equipped with yoga mats, weights, a foam ball, and some rubber bands, in a tiny room that looks fit for ballet you will perform strengthening exercises that will render you quivering. For days. Imagine squatting in a plié and then rising to your tip toes, punching the air after circular motions while holding weights, and various forms of crunches that burn in a 360 fire around your abdomen. Think pilates meets yoga, married with weight training.

Spin

Rev 30/30: Best of both worlds all in one class – imagine a class that starts with 30 minutes of cardio and end with 30 minutes of strength training. My dream come true, this is the vitamin version of a group class – every essential aspect of a workout you want, all in one hour.  Plus, the spinning room is the widest and tallest you’ve ever been in, and the bikes the newest versions possible (at least, they’re the most up-to-date I’ve come across).

Revolution Fitness, however, doesn’t start and stop with the classes. The fellow clientele is local and friendly, the instructors are energetic, helpful, and absolutely talented, and , as I know what you care about (almost) the street parking is ample and (on side streets) free.

So, when you find yourself in need of a new song, a burst of motivation, or just the desire to feel a new muscle, be sure to check in to Revolution Fitness and sweat it out in a whole new way.

ElliptiGO

If I can, you can!

ElliptiGO

Type: Outdoors

Category: Fitness, Recreation

Company: Anyone who likes the ride of a bike and the stride of the elliptical

Cost: Same prices as boardwalk bike rentals (varies by location)

Quickie: Get the cardio you expect from running with the breeze you love from riding an outdoor bike.

Review:

If you’re of the walk, run, bike, skate variety and frequent the beach path in Santa Monica, then it’s likely you’ve seen the ElliptiGO. The self-proclaimed “outdoor elliptical bicycle,” the rider assumes a standing position while striding as one would on an indoor elliptical – but gets to experience the freedom and cardiovascular benefits of an outdoor bike.

Sure, it looks a bit silly. But here’s the thing: For those who've been injured and told they can’t walk or run for months and anyone (including professional athletes) whose been told to rest due to overuse  – then the ElliptiGO is a savior on wheels. Imagine getting to work out just weeks after surgery, and/or if you tune it right, replacing portions of your endurance training with half the time on the ElliptiGO and performing better and faster without wearing out joints and tendons.

Perhaps the ElliptiGO is a dream come true for recovering and training athletes because it was made by, and for, professional athletes, Bryan and Brent. Ironmen by sport (Bryan and Brent) and Engineer (Brent) by training came up with the idea when Bryan was sidelined by years of endurance sport and told to seek something with low impact. Sound familiar? It happens every day to endurance athletes, and almost just as often to people who aren’t even runners by profession. As such, the presence of the ElliptiGO is on the rise. Last weekend, I had the pleasure of taking the ElliptiGO out for a test ride – and while this is the first time I’ve seen one carving up the Santa Monica bike path, there were several cyclists and runners who, in passing, hailed “hi!” to the ElliptiGO.

At first, I was a bit hesitant. Imagine mounting a bike, but standing the whole time. Sure, it’s steady (and if you can ride a two-wheeler then you can ride the ElliptiGO) but it took me a few seconds to wrap my mind around the concept of breaks and gears (bike-style) while standing and doing the stride and motions that I associate with the stationary elliptical. But after practicing mounting, switching gears, and gracefully stopping, I was ready to get my workout on. Speeding down the  bike path, by the time we got from  the hotel casa del mar parking lot to Channel road (about 2.5 miles) my muscles felt warmed up and I was sweating just as I would be had I been running. Impressively, I wasn’t sore at all – not my knees, ankles, or tendons (years ago I was sidelined for several months due to an overused tendon, so these days if anything gets sore from too much impact it’s that pesky tendon). 

After the round-loop five-mile “run” on the ElliptiGO, I was sold. With the same cardiovascular and physical benefits I like from running, minus the sore ankles, knees, tendons, or hips that we all associate with overuse or old age, the ElliptiGO is great for anyone. Luckily, if you want to give it a whirl, there are two locations in Santa Monica where you can test run (or buy!) the ElliptiGO. Get up, go out, and check it out!

Performance Bicycle (for purchase): 501 Broadway, 90401 (310) 451 9977

Joey’s Bike and Skate Rentals (for rent): 1715 Ocean Front Walk (310) 395 4748

Tough Mudder Training and Tips

Tough Mudder

Various locations

Follow Tough Mudder on Facebook

Type: Outdoors, Adventure

Category: Entertainment

Company: Masochistic Friends

Cost: Varies depending on when you sign up – between $80 and $180

Tough Mudder has already been reviewed as an activity (one that I highly recommend), but I keep receiving questions regarding training, and what to expect upon your first Mudder. And while I am certainly not a certified trainer or anything close, I can offer some OTC training tips and advice.

Also note that if you work out on a regular basis (weight training and cardio), you should be able to complete a Mudder without significantly altering your current routine. 

• Hills - While not all Mudder events take place on hilly terrain, the previous two I ran did.  And I really shouldn't say "hill" - "mountain" is more applicable.  They will be brutal.  You will run up, and down, and up, and down, and repeat it til you cant think anymore.  Even the short climbs will make your quads cry for mercy.  To prep, find a local High School or College track that has ample seating, and start running stadiums.  A steep hill will work as well. I recommend checking out the Manhattan Beach Sand Dune or the Santa Monica Stairs.  Sprint up and walk down, repeating for a set number (or time, I go with 10 minute sets).  Take a break to stretch and hydrate, jog a lap, and then repeat.  Adding this to your routine will not only help prep you for the Mudder's hills, but this type of interval training can actually improve overall cardio strength, a much needed skill...

• Cardio -  HIlls or no hills, you will be activiely moving for at least 2 hours (and maybe closer to 4, depending on your fitness level and/or teammates).  You need to make sure your overall aerobic capacity is up to the challenge.  As mentioned above, you can kill two birds with one stone with your hill training.  But depending on your current fitness level, you will still need lace up running shoes and hit the pavement (or trail).  Hate running?  Hop on a bike, or even use an elliptical machine at the gym.  Find a balance between longer and slower training sessions with more interval training.  Try 30 seconds of running/biking as fast as possible, then slowing down for another 30.  Repeat for 10 minutes.  Your training will go quicker and you will see amazing cardio results. 

• Along with all the legwork, Mudder does require upper body strength as well.  Monkey bars, 12 foot walls, and especially log carries - all of these will test your upper body endurance as well.  Being able to lift your body weight after already having all your energy depleted is necessary to finish the race.  If you don't have access to a gym (and even if you do), the best training for Mudder are the classics - pushups and pullups.  You'll need to focus more on lots of reps at lower weight, which is exactly what these exercises accomplish.  

If you want to fully dedicate yourself to kicking Mudder's ass, spend your week mixing up hill training, cardio, and body-weight training.  Of course, hitting heavy weights once a week will help as well, but its hard to beat the tips outlined above. 

Once you have the strength to finish, you need to prep your equipment.  Assuming you aren't completely crazy and running the race in a full suit (I've seen it done multiple times), you'll want to gear up properly.  

• Shoes: Trail running shoes are the most logical choice, followed by a pair of sturdy cross trainers.   Make sure you tie them TIGHT.  Before you double knot them, remember that you will get rocks in your shoes, and might have to take them off quickly to dump debris.  Wet knots with freezing fingers = giant pain. 
• Socks: Obviously moisture-wicking socks are the best for this (although they will still be wet at the end), but also make sure they extend a few inches up your ankle, and fit tightly around your leg.  You don't want rocks slipping between your sock and skin. 
• Tape: You'll also see people with their ankles/socks/shoelaces taped.  I've found that it isn't worth it.  The tape will end up falling off, and will limit access to adjusting shoes and socks. 
• Attire: Less is better.  Sure, you might be cold at the start before the blood gets flowing, but once you're sweaty and covered in water, you want as little clothing on you as possible.  If you must wear a shirt (prude), be aware that running with a loose damp shirt can and will chafe your nipples.  
• And as always, don't forget sunscreen.  With all the random mud spots on your face and arms, do you want a splotchy tan/sunburn?
• Accessories: Headbands, hats, capes, backpacks - unless they are an essential part of your team attire, skip them.  They will take on water (and weight), and you'll end up worrying if they are falling off).

So there you have it - take all my advice, part of it, or completely ignore it.  Just make sure you get off the couch and get muddy once in a while.  

Trancas/Encinal/Mulholland Trails (Malibu)

Trancas/Encinal/Mulholland Trails (Malibu) 

Review: Looking for an off-the-beaten-path trail (pun intended)? This 12 mile round trip section of trails is sparsely populated and incredibly beautiful. 

How to get there: Take PCH North to Kanan Dune Rd, take a right and continue for about 6.4 miles and take a left at Mulholland Hwy.  When you come to the fork, stay left on Encinal Canyon Road.  The trailhead will be on the left in about 1.3 miles.  There is a large turnout right before where you can park.  Note that this is NOT the Zuma Ridge Motorway trail, which you will pass as well.

The trail begins past a fence and a an "Authorized Vehicles Only Sign".  After a short uphill climb on a firetrail you hit the start of the first single-track trail (Trancas Trailhead).  Be warned - unlike other trails in Malibu, this section lacks trees and bushes, meaning if you misjudge a turn, you'll end up off the side of the cliff.

OTC Tip: On this downhill section, there can be a lot of small ditches running the length of the trail, perfect for getting your tires stuck in, so hug the rails even tighter than usual.

The trail bottoms out and crosses a short bridge and creek before the treacherous climb begins.  At this point, I thought the climbing would end and I would get to embrace my inner speed-demon and get my adrenaline pumping...but no.  Once the Trancas Trail ends, you cross Encinal Canyon Road and bike through a dirt parking lot before beginning the next section, Encinal trailhead. The start of the trail can be found here. Continue up on the trail (also part of the Backbone set of trails in Malibu) until you hit Decker canyon road.  And yes, this part is entirely uphill as well.  Get used to using your granny gear.

OTC Tip: Like most trails, horses are allowed, but for the first time we actually saw some, coming within a few feet of literally running into two riders.  Unlike hikers, in this case the bikers don't win in a head-to-head collision, so be very aware.    

After crossing the street, the real fun begins.  And by fun, I mean more climbing.  It just doesn't end, but the views are worth it - just make sure to keep your eyes on the trail.  Eventually you'll end up at Etz Meloy Mtwy, a wide firetrail. Stop and enjoy the amazing view (seen  the top photo on this post).

OTC Tip: All of the breathtaking views come with a price.  There trail doesn't very much high-growing foliage, so be prepared to face the full force of the sun.  Bring sunscreen.  And even more cold water than you think is necessary.  Trust me, you'll need all of it.

Now the fun begins.  All of your hard work and sweat will be rewarded with an amazing downhill run.  The trail offers a ton of banked turns, so you can keep your speed up while whipping through the cutbacks.

OTC Tip: Bushes and flowers invade the trail space, so if you dont want small scratches up and down your arms and legs (or if you have any type of floral allergies), I suggest wearing long pants/tights and sleeves.  Or yknow, man up and take the thrashing.

The adrenaline filled ride left me wanting more, but instead I got to end my trip with a torturous (and I mean AWFUL - my biking partner had both of his quads cramp up) climb back to the car.  The only positive that kept me chugging along back up the initial singletrack was knowing that I had a very fast firetrail to bomb down.  (Remember that there is a fence at the end, so don't get going too fast.)

The entire ride took about 2 and a half hours, but that was with a handful of water and food stops, as well as intermittent photo opportunities (and also a few stops to pick myself off of ground and stop the bleeding - I tend to get a little too excited with some of the hairpin turns). Throughout it, I only saw 3 other bikers, 3 hikes, and 2 horses.  This was on a perfect Sunday afternoon, and the parking lot for Latigo Canyon and Kanan road Trailhead completely packed.  If you want to spend an afternoon in relatively undisturbed biking paradise, try this out. 

Sports Fishing: Marina Del Rey

Snapper

Marina Del Rey Sports Fishing
Dock 52 Fiji Way
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
310.822.3625 

Type: Outdoors
Category: Recreation
Company: Everyone, minus anyone prone to motion sickness
Cost: ~ $64/per adult for a 1/2 day (all inclusive), call for longer trips and other pricing

Quickie: Fresh fish tastes even better when you got up at 6am to catch it. Luckily, if you get obsessed you can go out everyday - MDR runs boats daily (sometimes twice) - even during the week. There's a reason most of these guys have been fishing since they were kids: it's calming, invigorating, marvelous - and absolutely contagious. 

OTC Tip: Make friends with Victor Ramirez, and crew tag-along Steve. They will take care of you all day - from baiting your hook(s) to switching out weights - they'll even clean/fillet your catch. 

Review:
Here's something you don't know about me: one summer while I was in college, I was a fishing guide (and bartender, but I'll save that for another post) at UCLA's alumni summer camp, Bruin Woods. Despite having fly fishing in my blood, there was nothing about me that took easily to the heroic act of gutting over 1000 fish - and while the story has served me well in many areas ever after in my life (job interviews, dates, etc) nonetheless, I haven't been fishing in years.

But as I've mentioned before, I'm at my best near the water. So when the hankering for fish struck me hard last weekend, I decided to look in to it. As happy would have it, I discovered that for a quick trip I  didn't have to drive all the way to Lake Arrowhead - and instead could leave port right from local Marina Del Rey. 

OTC Tip: Call the day before your desired trip and reserve a spot. You don't need to bring anything aside from yourself, warm clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and cash ($80-$100 to be super safe, especially if you want to buy breakfast or snacks from the galley).

I went for the Sunday morning trip that required me to be at the dock at 7:15am. After getting checked in I purchased my ticket, rod rental and bait, and fishing license. Around 7:45 we pushed off, and stood/sat around as our captain escorted the boat to fishing grounds, and the rest of the deckhands accomplished several activities such as chopping bait, rigging rods, and directing those with seasickness to the bathrooms. 

OTC Tip: Some people get seasick, some don't. I didn't - but those who did looked pretty miserable and spent the trip wedged against the deck and the side of the boat. Don't do this to yourself if you get motion sickness - take dramamine.

We spent about three hours "at sea." As my genes would have it, I managed to catch a red snapper and a few mutt rockfish. I'd say about 1/2 of the boat brought home fish - which isn't too shabby. 

OTC Tip: Avoid the crowded stern (back) and fish off the bow (front). It's a bit more awkward to stand because it's pointed, but the fewer the lines the better your chance at hook, line, and dinner.

We got back to land around 12:30, and by 1:30 I was sitting down to a lunch of seared snapper and an ice cold beer. 

OTC Tip: The closest you can get to wronging your fresh fish is overcooking it - otherwise, slow baking, pan-frying, quick-searing or my favorite, butter-bathing, will deliver wonderfully. If you plan on eating your fish after three days of catching, freeze it.

Mt. Baldy Hike

Summit, 10,064 ft

Mt. Baldy Hike: Manker Flats Loop
Mt Baldy Rd & Falls Rd
Mount Baldy, CA 91759
Follow Mt Baldy on Facebook

Type: Outdoors
Category: Fitness, Hikes
Company: Experienced hikers (especially those with a good sense of direction)
Cost: Free

Quickie: Full-day hike (ranging from 8-13 miles) that will take you through snow, along a ridge, over rocks, and above the clouds - all culminating in a 360 degree view of what will appear to be the rest of the world.

Devil's Backbone

OTC Tip: You will see people wearing large hats and carrying umbrellas for the exact reason this mountain is called "Baldy" - there is little to no shade, and hiking around 10,000 ft for several hours will render you a whole new shade if you don't apply sunscreen (bottom of your nose, the back of your neck, and your knees, included).

Review:
Considering I have yet to become injured, dehydrated, bitten, or marooned on a mountain - I suppose I was due for some thin luck.

OTC Tip: Bring a map of your route, 3 liters of water per person, food, sunscreen, bug repellent, sun glasses, a hat, hiking poles, electrolyte tablets, an experienced Baldy hiker if you have one, and of course - your camera.

Baldy Saddle

I know, so quick to tip? It's because we made three mistakes on the trail, two being relatively benign (one, we hiked straight up a ski slope instead of taking the scenic "round about." Two, we made our own path up a wall of snow instead of taking the correct route) but the third was where I heard myself say "Oh, so THIS is how people get lost...and stuck on a mountain...overnight..."

But I'll get to that. The day started off in typical fashion: we parked at Manker Flats and entered the trail via Falls Rd (fire road) which we followed all the way up to Blady Notch (top of the ski lift). At the lodge, we topped off our water bottles and used the last "real bathroom."

Now, here is your first opportunity to bypass our first botch of the hike: take the trail to the RIGHT (directly under the ski lift) unless you want to find yourself hiking straight up Turkey Shoot Ski Run (steep, blisteringly hot, gravely). Once you reach the top (from either way) you will continue along a dirt path to the beginning of the Devil's Backbone.

OTC Tip: After the Devil's Backbone, you will start to thin that you are getting close to the summit. This inclination is incorrect. You will continue your trek along the cusp of the mountain, and you'll know when you've hit the Baldy Saddle when there appears to be the point of a mountain in the horizon with a path of tight switch-backs leading the way.

Summit!

It's here that, depending on the time of year, you will probably want to veer off path and play in the snow.

OTC Tip: At the top, take too many pictures. Eat lunch. Make friends with your fellow hikers.

In order to complete Manker Loop, head south. This route is significantly steeper, bushier, and less marked. You will boulder, dodge trees, and probably slide a few feet on your ass several times.

While it was nice to not hike back on the same path, I don't actually recommend hiking down Baldy Bowl Trail (unless you are with a veteran Baldy hiker) because this is where we got lost, about two miles away from the getting back to the trailhead. Luckily, we spotted hikers on the right path on the opposite side of the ravine, but we had little water and the afternoon was closing in on early evening. Not ideal.

New friends!

The great thing about Manker Loop is that it will deposit you right where you started, without having to retrace your steps. Definitely a hike I encourage everyone to try - but please, don't make the evening news by doing what we did, and make sure to be well-packed and prepared!

Mt. Wilson Hike

Trail Head & Map

Mt. Wilson Hike
89 E. Mira Monte Ave
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
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Type: Outdoors
Category: Fitness, Hikes
Company: Average hikers will get through it, more experienced hikers will actually enjoy it
Cost: Free

Quickie: This is not for anyone faint at heart / weak in the legs. It's 14 miles to the observatory and back (the first 7 miles is where you get your 4500 ft gain in elevation). Yep, Wilson is called a mountain for a reason. Don't forget your camera!

OTC Tip: For the love of NOT becoming bug food, BRING BUG REPELLENT. Speaking of food, at the summit the Cosmic Cafe is open on weekends for lunch (10am-4pm).

Review:
Perhaps it's the swimmer in me, but there is something about complete immersion in nature that I'm always drawn to. So when the opportunity to set myself loose at the bottom of a mountain with the task to climb up and back down again in one day - I take it.

Billy Goats

Like most hikes, the trailhead for Mt Wilson is tucked in the backyard of a residential area at the boot of the San Gabriel Mountains. Park on the street, and head in. Like most day hikes, start early - probably no later than 8 am.

OTC Tip: Your backpack should include a liter of water, snacks, BUG SPRAY, sunscreen, band-aids, a hat, sunglasses, money for the cafe - and maybe a change of clothes (explained below).

The hike to the top can be broken in to four "legs" (ha).

1) The first is the winding ascent up the side of the hill to "first water"- our view was completely obstructed because of the dense fog, which was actually my favorite part - it gave the 1.5 mi "warm-up" a Tim-Burton meets Alice in Wonderland feel (great for pictures).

2) The second is the next 2 miles to Orchard Camp (3.5 mi mark). You will first cross a trickling stream, and then find yourself climbing steeper and deeper in to various canyons.

3) The third is about 2 miles to Manzanita Ridge (mile 5.4 mark). This is where is starts to get dusty, rocky, and it's right about where you start to think "I'd be OK if this were the top..." - but no. So close you can see it, yet - still 2 miles out. Take a deep breath, and plug on.

4) The fourth is the last 2 miles to the top. This was the hardest portion for me for several reasons: the BUGS (biting flies) seem to love this part of the trail, it's steep, and the fact that about 1 mile away from the observatory the trail hits a junction that will give you the option of hiking on a fire trail that appears to lead directly to the observatory OR following an arrow made from rocks. Confusing, and not the type of riddle you want to entertain 6 miles in to your summit.

OTC Tip: Follow the rock arrow, no matter how alluring the option to take the fire road may be.

Following the arrow, you will make a mile trek and climb to the top.You will get deposited in to a parking lot, where it will dawn upon you that you will be lunching with people in dresses and sandals who drove up the other side for a quick afternoon picnic. All is forgiven, because without car access there would not be the Cosmic Cafe selling popsicles, chili corn-chip nachos, sandwiches and hot chocolate. Oh, and a real bathroom.

TOP!

OTC Tip: Wear layers - at the summit, we changed out of pants and in to shorts since the fog had cleared and the sun was out in full-force. Take a break, have some lunch, fill up your water bottles, and take pictures. We stayed for about 1/2 an hour.

The hike down is significantly easier, minus the potential to slip is a lot higher. We all slid in the gravel/dirt at least once. The entire hike took us about 7 hours (generous, as we stopped for pictures several times). Definitely give a full day to this hike, and plan a delicious dinner for yourself afterward.You will have earned it, and have little energy for anything other than that, anyways.

YogaHop

YogaHop
1612 Montana Ave, 2nd floor
Santa Monica, CA 90403
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Type: Indoor
Category: Fitness and Recreation, Group Classes
Company: A-traditional yogis who like hip-hop, rock, and pop
Cost: 5 Classes $90, 10 Classes $150, 20 Classes $260, Unlimited
 
Quickie: If you are OK with possibly finding yourself
doing The Plow to "Bottoms Up" (Trey Songz), then this is the yoga studio for you. Self-described as "flowing yoga," YogaHop will take you through the typical Power yoga series while swapping the usual meditational soundtrack for - well - music that will make you want to dance.

OTC Tip: Bring your mat, water, and a compass - Yogahop's store front is behind Pinkberry on Montana (and up a staircase).

Two rooms: West and East

This morning I did Downward-Facing Dog to Juvenile's "Back That Ass Up." Now, if the idea of fixating in Warrior Two to 50 Cent makes you cringe - this probably isn't the place for you. But here's the thing: sometimes, I think we yogis take ourselves too seriously. Sure, I'm all for the meditation, mindfulness, and "letting go of my thoughts" - but a few times every month I honestly wouldn't mind silently rocking out while breathing in to Crescent Moon - and YogaHop is just the place for that.

OTC Tip: Check out the schedule here

As you can imagine, the class went by really quickly. The best comparison is the difference between running with and without music - YogaHop offers that extra bit of distraction we all crave when working out. Granted, it's much more awkward if you start singing along when your favorite song comes on - but then again, being sweaty and contorted in braided positions inches away from your neighbor is always treading on shamelessness - so - why not add the cherry. 

OTC Tip: YogaHop is pretty popular. The classes tend to sell out, so make sure you reserve online and go a few minutes early.

The best part is the location of YogaHop - which is right on Montana, across from Sweet Lady Jane and other coffee shops/eateries so you can make a morning/evening of it and eat after your class!

Backbone Trail Malibu

Backbone Trail Malibu

(Latigo Cyn & Kanan Road Trailheads)

Trailhead: There is a parking lot at the trailhead, on the left just past the tunnel on Kanan Dume Road (Google Map View)

Type: Outdoors

Category: Bike, Hike

Company: Friends, Dates

Cost: Free!

Quickie: Located about 15 minutes East of PCH in Malibo, Backbone Trail consists of a few different trailheads to choose from.  90% of the trek will be single-track, perfect for mountain bikers to keep their thrill level high. 

OTC Tip: Check out the extensive trail map for Backbone (and other nearby trails)

From the parking lot, there are two trailheads to choose from - Latigo Canyon and Kanan Road.  Latigo Canyon Trailhead starts heading south from the lot, past a small fence and up a steep and rocky section.  From there it crosses over the tunnel and continues for 1.4 miles of amazing single track riding to a parking lot on Latigo Road. The majority of the first leg is uphill, but all the effort was rewarded with an adrenaline -packed ride back down.  With rocks, roots, jumps, and hikers to avoid/jump, it requires 100% focus. Note that you can continue further East on yet another trail, or head back towards the parking lot. 

OTC Tip: There are just enough blind hairpin turns to keep things interesting on the trip back down, so make sure to take a mental note of where they are so you don't end up skidding into the cliff wall (or off the side into one of the numerous patches of flowers).

After a quick break back in the main parking lot (read: water, energy bar, and a GFB*), head Northwest on Kanan Road Trailhead for a 2.5 mile rollercoaster ride.  Although longer than Latigo Canyon, the hills are less steep overall, and offer a larger array of up-and-down.  There are a few rocky/wet spots where dismounting the bike is advised.  I personally like this trailhead better than Latigo Canyon - it offers a lot more quick turns and switchbacks that will give both your body and focus a heartpounding workout. 

OTC Tip: About 5 minutes into the ride, the trail has a short break to the right.  Take the quick break and enjoy the tranquility of a waterfall.  Then get back on the bike and power through the hills at a speed just past the "Oh Shit" level.

Both these trailheads are just a taste of what Malibu has to offer for biking and hiking.  But now there is the issue of deciding what my next ride will be - do I repeat these awesome trails, or explore the seemingly endless supply of nearby trails?  Either way, it is well worth the drive up PCH. 

OTC Tip: Although both trails have sparse traffic, there will be the occasional herd of slow-moving hikers, as well as other bikers.  Keep an ear perked at all times, and be wary of blind turns.  


*Denotes a Guilt Free Beer - the kind of beer that you deserve after a strenuous workout