Don’t want to hike alone? Try one of these regular guided hikes or nature walks in San Diego County – San Diego Union-Tribune

Don’t want to hike alone? Try one of these regular guided hikes or nature walks in San Diego County  San Diego Union-Tribune

San Diegans can venture out with fellow hiking enthusiasts virtually every weekend of the year and some weekdays. Fall brings a variety of new hiking opportunities in San Diego County, ideally with cooler weather and some changing fall leaves. Those who want to celebrate the season by hiking don’t have to do so alone, as various organizations across the county host group hikes and nature walks, often led by rangers or docents with expertise on everything from wildlife and native plants to geologic formations. “A docent can help you notice things you might otherwise walk right past and give you some context for what you’re seeing,” Haley Calhoun, education coordinator for Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, said in an email.

“They can point out a bird’s behavior, explain why a plant grows where it does, or help connect something you’re seeing to the larger estuary ecosystem. Having someone guide your attention can make you experience the place differently.” Among its many frequent guided hiking programs, the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting a Hike-A-Thon, with a variety of ranger-led hikes, throughout the month of October starting on Oct. 3. Learn more at sdparks.org/hike-a-thon. For those who are unable to get outside, the county also has a list of virtual hikes to bring nature to