A Day at Chino Hills State Park

Taking a hike or going on a bike ride at Chino Hills State Park is a great way to spend a day if you want to do something different and get out of the house.

Nestled on the outskirts of residential homes, the State Park offers, hiking, camping, biking and general, outdoor fun. For Southern California residents, this is a great opportunity to explore an area that is essentially, in your own backyard (it's just off the 71 freeway). For people from out of state, this is a great, day-long visit you may want to consider making.

To begin with, the cost of visiting the park is extremely cheap. If you only plan on staying for a few hours or the day, you only have to pay for parking which is $4. Once you drive up a dirt path, you will reach a booth (which is not manned by anyone). You get out of your car, take one of the tickets, fill it out (make sure to bring a pen), put your $4 into the envelope and drop it into a box. You take the other portion of the stub and stick it on your dashboard.

It's basically on the honor system. However, the sign says that rangers do walk around to ensure that every vehicle has paid.

After you pay, you will drive about 2 miles on a winding dirt path to the designated parking areas. Make sure you drive slowly and watch out for on-coming traffic because the road is extremely narrow (and you may have to pull over). Plus, if you go over the edge realize there are no patrol cars going up and down the path to make sure everything is fine (the area is seemingly remote).

You will pass various areas to park or camp. Take your pick as far as where you want to park and keep an eye out for stands a long the way which contain maps to the park. However, if you go all the way up towards where the signs point to campgrounds (and a former stable), you will find a large parking lot, restrooms and more campsites.

Generally speaking, you can hike just about anywhere. There are many paths that go deep into the brush or up to various high points. Note the fact that the area is home to rattlesnakes, male deer, bobcats, cougars, raccoons, coyotes and other animals. These animals are usually sleeping during the day and hunt at night. However, that does not mean you are 100 percent safe from these animals.

Thus, you should always be aware of your surroundings and not stray too far from your car (and stay on the designated paths). In addition, don't throw sticks and rocks into the brush or water as you may irritate whatever animals are living or sleeping down that way.

As far as things to remember to bring, you should make sure to have water and snacks - especially if you are spending a day hiking.

In addition, it is a good idea to wear light layers. If it seems cold when you arrive, you will get hot as you begin to hike. Thus, it is a good idea to wear a tank top underneath a light sweater (that you can later tie around your waist). In addition, make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes that you have already broken in. It's no good to go on a hike with brand new shoes only to get blisters and other sores 20 minutes into the walk (the terrain is bumpy and some of it goes on an incline).

If you are bringing water and other supplies, bring a backpack that offers good shoulder and back support. In addition, don't fill the backpack completely as you have to remember that you will have to carry all of that weight up hills and rocky paths.

The park experience is what you make of it. Come prepared, and you will ensure a fun time. For more information, visit www.parks.ca.gov.