Hiking in the Jurupa Hills, located south of the I-10 Freeway, is available with or without a guide.
Are you looking for a fun and exciting adventure in Fontana? Has the warmer weather kept you straying from the computer to have a peek out the window? Does the prospect of spending a few hours outside appeal to your winter self? If you answered yes to any of these, look no further. Fontana has some great natural scenery and hilly areas that can turn a morning walk into a wonderful hike leaving the lungs refreshed and the eyes sharp.
Unguided territory
Want to go it alone? Jurupa Hills has easy to read markers throughout the trails.
If you love exploring and are not interested in having a guide who will teach you about the area animals and insects, there are plenty of local trails from which you may choose. Look to markers for the elevation and take note if you find yourself easily out of breath.
Beginners may choose to start slowly and stay within the city limits as they prepare their bodies for the more difficult trails.
“We suggest that beginners start nearby, in the Jurupa Hills, and work their way towards the more advanced trails,” advises Rick Dean, Nature Center coordinator, adding, “When hikers are ready for more advanced trails located near home, they may want to take a trip to the Lytle Creek Visitor’s Center.”
State and federal parks are another place to find more intermediate and advanced trails. To find out more or for directions, please visit www.parks.ca.gov or http://www.iloveparks.com/usparks.htm. When hiking, please remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear that will also protect you from the elements.
Those who are interested in having a guide or making the moment a truly unique learning experience should consider joining Discovery Hikes at the Nature Center.
The Discovery Series
Discovery nature hikes are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and learn about local species.
The Family Nature Programs: Adventures in Nature designed for younger children, offers families a detailed look into the world of wild animals commonly found in this area. Topics have included ducks and geese, coyotes, and skunks. The adventures also offer stories, hands-on activities, and short hikes. Each is designed to educate both younger and older learners.
“This is another great hike for beginners who are entertaining the idea of taking up hiking or walking. We will also learn about the local plants and animals,” explains Dean.
The Discovery Hikes are a family adventure and an introduction to everything that surrounds the Jurupa Hills. The naturalist guide provides a detailed account of local flora and fauna.
The Adult Nature Programs: Natural History of the Jurupa Hills are the perfect fit for anyone interested in a more advanced introduction to Jurupa Hills. Session topics include geology, native plant communities, urban wildlife, and watersheds.
Families enjoy the guided Discovery Hikes too.
Insect Discovery Hike is for students ages 15 and older. The session focuses on the animal class, Insects, and begins with a mini-lecture outlining the natural history of insects. Observations of preserved specimens and field collecting techniques are all a part of the program.
“We’ll spend some time focusing on the macro invertebrates, also known as dragon flies and others who live their early lives in the water, and then we will try to identify some of our own locals here in the Nature Center pond,” says Dean.
For more information about hiking in Fontana or the Nature Center discovery series and prices, please call (909) 428-8386. The Nature Center also has a newsletter. Click the link to sign up today.
