Surprising what you can find in nooks and crannies of Orange County when you look. Twelve Bruins ventured out to explore the Santiago Oaks Park on the northern edge of the Cleveland National Park. A cool clear morning greeted us along with our ranger. She was able to spend about an hour with us walking the Santiago Creek Regional Trail, which passes by the submerged 1892 dam (It was built deep below the natural bedrock to restrict the flow of seasonal water through Santiago Creek); the interpretive center and the last vestiges of California spring flowers.

After our ranger-led hike, we all decided to take the loop trail which provides hilltop views of the Pacific coastline, Orange County's city skylines, and the edge of Irvine Lake. Look for another hike to be planned in the fall season at a local regional park. For information contact Gary Bittner at gary.bittner@gateway.com for questions.