For a dose of classic California beauty, endless views and dramatic boulders, hike to Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park, the world’s largest (at 14,000 acres) wildland within the boundaries of a major city. While picnic areas attract crowds of suburban families on the weekends, the trails are usually very open, luring naturalists and runners. Springtime is lovely with meadows in bloom and rare wild flowers sprinkled alongside sycamores and oaks on the 7.5-mile loop trail. Stick to the morning or afternoon for optimal viewing of native flora, and you might see a critter or two. From Topanga Canyon Boulevard, head east for one mile on Entrada Road, then follow signs for Topanga State Park. Park in the lot for $4, or if you’re feeling frugal park down the road. Look for the Eagle Spring Road to take you up to Eagle Rock. The park closes at dusk. (310) 455-2465, parks.ca.gov/
default.asp?page_id=25336. —Jacqueline Bolbat

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