Notes about your surroundings

Crystal Cove--Combining unspoiled beaches, wind-swept bluffs and more than 2,000 acres of canyon backcountry, Crystal Cove State Park is a gem among Orange County parks, attracting legions of hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers.

The inland canyons were hit hard in the fire of last fall, but the vegetation in most areas has come back strongly. Park rangers offer guided programs every weekend, giving first-time visitors an excellent introduction to the park, while giving those familiar with the park a chance to know it better.

Today, the featured programs are a canyon walk, leaving from the El Moro Nature Center at 9 a.m. and going to noon, and a coastal walk, leaving from the Pelican Point parking lot at 1 p.m. and returning at 3 p.m.

Next weekend, the following programs are offered: Saturday, canyon walk from El Moro, 9 a.m. to noon; Sunday, coastal walk from Pelican Point, 9 a.m. to noon; historical program at El Moro, 2 to 3 p.m.

Park ranger Kirk Marshall said the canyon walks are geared to the desires and abilities of the group that shows up, usually three to 20 people. “You kind of try to read the group and make a decision,” he said. “The hike is never so strenuous that the group can’t do it.”

Coastal walks can either follow the top of the terrace, rich in bird life (including the threatened California gnatcatcher), or amble along the water’s edge. Sometimes, the walks take in both. The historical talk focuses on the community of cottages in Crystal Cove, a fixture since the 1920s. Beginning mountain bike tours are also offered occasionally.

Walks are free, but parking is $6. The park is about halfway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach on Coast Highway (El Moro is on the inland side of the highway; Pelican Point on the ocean side). Information: (714) 494-3539.