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Ready to venture beyond neighborhood walks and confidently prepare for a full day on the trail?

Designed for novice and emerging hikers, Discovery Series: Hiking 101 will introduce Conservancy members to the practical skills and confidence needed to plan safe, enjoyable adventures on the trail. Together, we’ll cover everything from choosing an appropriate route and packing the right gear to staying hydrated, fueling your body, navigating unfamiliar terrain, and adapting when conditions change.

Along the way, we’ll share the little things experienced hikers learn over time—how to pace yourself, recognize changing conditions, prepare for the unexpected, and know when it’s time to turn around. Through approachable instruction, hands-on demonstrations, and practical exercises, you’ll leave with the knowledge to explore more of Crystal Cove’s backcountry and other wild places with greater confidence.

Whether you’re preparing for your first full day hike or simply looking to build a stronger foundation, Hiking 101 will help you spend less time wondering if you’re prepared—and more time enjoying the journey.

Participants will receive a detailed packing list and program overview in advance to help prepare.

Time: 8:00 AM
Duration: 4-6 hours
Location: Berns Amphitheater (presentation); Moro Canyon (Guided Training hike)
Capacity: 20 participants
Experience Level: Beginner
Physical Activity: Moderate. Participants should be prepared to walk several miles on uneven terrain with some elevation gain.
Members Only Fee: $10

Route Overview:

Bern’s Amphitheater → Moro Canyon Trailhead (0.1 mi) → East Cut Across (1.0 mi) → Moro Ridge (1.2 mi) → B.F.I. Trail (1.5 mi) → Return to Trailhead (0.4 mi)

Program Format

• Classroom Instruction — Approximately 90 minutes
• Location — Berns Amphitheater

Topics will include:

• Evaluating trail distance, elevation, terrain, and difficulty
• Selecting and fitting a daypack
• Essential hiking gear and emergency supplies
• Footwear, clothing, and layering
• Hydration and electrolyte planning
• Trail food and sustained energy
• Maps, trail signs, and digital navigation tools
• Weather, daylight, and turnaround times
• Common trail hazards and basic emergency preparedness
• Hiking responsibly and minimizing environmental impact

Participants will practice:

• Reviewing a route before departure
• Adjusting and organizing a daypack
• Maintaining a sustainable hiking pace
• Managing hydration and snack breaks
• Recognizing changes in weather, energy, or trail conditions
• Determining when to rest, modify the route, or turn around

Participants will leave the program with:

• A practical day-hiking checklist
• A basic hike-planning framework
• Greater familiarity with essential gear
• Foundational navigation and trail-safety knowledge
• Increased confidence preparing for longer hikes
• A clearer understanding of their personal abilities and limits

Participants must bring:

• A daypack
• Supportive, broken-in hiking footwear
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sun protection
• Water and electrolytes
• Trail snacks or a light lunch
• A fully charged phone
• Any personal medications
• First Aid kit