Notes about your surroundings

Take a Hike--It’s often difficult to look beyond Orange County’s concrete, glass and asphalt to see the wilderness, but the trails are out there and in great shape.

Light rains and warm weather have combined to give the county terrific conditions for tromping through the woods. Canyons are green with new tree growth. Streams are easily crossed.

Most trails are accessible by children, although most parks also offer more challenging routes for the experienced hiker. Parks also have rangers on-site; call ahead to find out about guided tours. Be prepared for parking fees. And, as always, wear sturdy shoes and take drinking water.

Here’s a partial list of some of the county’s best in the park system:

* O’Neill Regional Park: A 3,000-acre parkland covered with more California sycamores than any other park in the state. Trail views along the western section of the park are best. But watch out for poison oak. Park rangers organize hikes and campfire programs for families.

Location: O’Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, (714) 858-9365.

* Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park: Make your way to this 3,400-acre park for an idea of what the county looked like before the invention of concrete. Abundant hiking and biking trails.

Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park, Aliso Creek Road at Alicia Parkway, near Laguna Niguel, (714) 831-2791.

* Santiago Oaks Regional Park: Drop in on this 500-acre park for some fresh air, a picnic and to let the children loose at a playground.

Location: Santiago Oaks Regional Park, 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, (714) 538-4400.