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| OHCC LIVING | MARCH 2026 | 43 Walkers and Hikers Hiking in your 60s and 70s is a great way to meet new people…today I met three paramedics, two nurses, a cardiologist and I almost met God. I thought I would start out this article with a joke. I realize that there are some of you who stay away from hiking or walking because you fear the above is no joke. I hope that is not the case, because we have plenty of walks that are geared toward f lat walking, with no elevation gain or uneven ground, and more like a leisurely, but active stroll. San Diego County offers year-round opportunities to enjoy walking and hiking without extreme temperatures. We often schedule walks at Mission Bay, La Jolla Shores or Oceanside Harbor. We often go to nature preserves and parks with well-maintained trails and gentle elevation changes. We usually schedule walks or hikes to begin somewhere between 8:30 and 10 am to take advantage of cooler temperatures. A scheduled walk usually means paved or smooth surfaces and predictable terrain. Hiking often includes dirt trails, uneven ground or elevation change. You might enjoy walking most of the time and hiking occasionally, depending on your energy level. The key is listening to your body and choosing routes that feel enjoyable, not intimidating. Walking and hiking aren't just about fitness - they are about quality of life. We get a chance to notice the ocean air, watch birds along a trail, and chat with friends and neighbors. It's never too late to start. A short walk today can lead to stronger health, brighter mood, and a deeper appreciation for the beautiful place we call home. Here are a few of the walks and hikes scheduled for March. Rancho Penasquitos - a relatively easy walk that takes you through beautiful canyon landscapes with native plants. It is great for casual walkers. Santa Fe Valley – this is one of our longer walks. It is a 4.1 mile walk that is out and back (you can turn around at any time if you do not want to do the whole thing) with scenic and tranquil trail that winds through lush landscapes with a mix of open grasslands, coastal sage scrub and beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. There is some elevation gain on this hike. Ironman Hike - This one is for the avid hikers out there. It is a popular and challenging trail, known for its rugged terrain and stunning vistas. This trail offers hikers sweeping views of the coastline and inland mountains. This is approximately a 5.7- mile hike with about 1122 ft elevation gain up to the summit, so it is a great workout. This is a hike not to miss if you are up for an adventure. Denk Mountain and Copper Creek trail - This is approximately a 4.1-mile hike. The initial climb up to the summit is a real butt kicker. But once up at the summit, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the ocean and Carlsbad. The rest of the hike is all switchbacks or f lat, so we do get a reprieve. We hope that our diversity of hikes and walks will entice you to join us on the trails for fresh air and enduring friendships. Written by Marla Reiter