A Range of Outdoor Enjoyment

It may not be Mt. Kilimanjaro or the Swiss Alps. But as Jost Rhodius has discovered, the Santa Monica Mountain range offers its own array of breathtaking vistas.

Since he founded his business, “Hiking in L.A.,” a year ago, Rhodius has been conducting tours in English, German, French and Italian through the Santa Monica Mountains. Three-hour trips take visitors along trails to provide an overview of the plant life, animals, geology and topography of the area.

He also devotes a great deal of time to discussing the history of the mountains and the culture of native inhabitants such as the Chumash Indians.

It’s an ideal family excursion, Rhodius said.

“I say, ‘Enjoy Disneyland but also experience the wondrous beauty of God’s nature,’ ” said Rhodius, 37, of Sherman Oaks.

Tourists and local residents alike have found these hikes to be a great way to learn about and enjoy the wilderness.

“A lot of people don’t realize there is hiking in Los Angeles,” said Lynn Lewenberg, 22, a senior at UC Santa Barbara. “I am very interested in (learning about) the geography, plants and animals in this pristine area.”

Rhodius, a native of Dueren, Germany, developed an interest in hiking as a child and attributes his love of nature to his parents, who encouraged him to explore the outdoors. He has hiked in countries such as Germany, Switzerland and Nepal.

After graduating from the University of Zurich with a degree in economics, he went to work for the Swiss Bank Corp. A transfer five years ago brought Rhodius to the company’s L.A. office. Instead of heading to the beach, the avid hiker looked up to the Santa Monica Mountains.

Two years ago, Rhodius traded in his briefcase and three-piece suits to pursue a longtime dream: running his own business. In preparation, he studied the history of the Santa Monica Mountains, hiked terrain along the Pacific Ocean from Ventura County to Griffith Park, and visited libraries and museums.

“I think (hiking) is a little bit in my blood,” Rhodius said.

Tours are Monday through Friday, and by appointment on weekends. Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for children 11 and younger. Information: (818) 501-1005.