Notes about your surroundings.

A Grand Canyon--This weekend, explore Laurel Canyon in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

Canyon trails wind through a variety of habitats, from coastal sage scrub to oak groves and waterfalls. The canyon is also home to a variety of wildlife, including gnatcatchers, red-tailed hawks, rabbits and mule deer.

Walking tours through the pristine countryside are held every Saturday morning and afternoon through fall. Mountain biking is allowed on Sundays only.

Horseback riding is also available on Saturdays. Groups or individual riders are welcome. It is necessary to stay on trails throughout the wilderness area.

Hiking groups are limited to 20 people, so reservations are necessary. To make reservations, call the Laguna Greenbelt at (714) 854-7108. Reservations can also be made through the Nature Conservancy at (714) 832-7478.

To get to Laurel Canyon, take the San Diego (405) Freeway to Laguna Canyon Road. Head south, toward Laguna Beach. Parking is on the west side of Laguna Canyon Road about 100 yards south of El Toro Road.

Trail Keepers Wanted--Volunteers are needed to build and repair local and state park hiking and biking trails.

Winter rains washed out many of Orange County’s dirt trails. In fact, several parks remain closed or have limited hiking and biking access because of the unsafe conditions of their trails.

Volunteers will clear paths, removing debris and reinforcing shoulders as needed.

To be a part of getting the park trails back in shape, contact the Orange County Trails Coalition at (714) 890-3925.