The community is invited to explore Long Beach’s natural wonders during the seventh annual Ranchos Walk on Saturday, Sept. 20.
This community hike will take residents through a 9.4-mile scenic route that connects two historic areas: Rancho Los Alamitos and Rancho Los Cerritos. Those who venture the trail will see the highest points across Long Beach and Signal Hill, including Reservoir Hill, Longview Point at Willow Springs Park and Hilltop Park in Signal Hill.
Last year’s walk brought nearly 600 people together to explore nature and take in the wonders of the cities’ urban forests.
“Every year, Ranchos Walk takes residents on a fun and educational guided walking tour of beautiful sites throughout Long Beach,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This event, which welcomed nearly 600 hikers last year, brings people together to enjoy the outdoors and celebrates our unique culture and history, and I encourage the community to join us on this family-friendly urban hike adventure.”
This year’s tree theme will educate walkers about the environmental and social benefits of street trees and feature some notable species that are visible along the walk route. Participants may access a free audio tour using the IZI travel app, available for download on Apple and Android devices.
In addition to the full 9.4-mile urban hike, the walk will also feature shorter 3.5-mile and 6-mile route options. The Ranchos Walk will end at Rancho Los Cerritos, where participants can enjoy a fun afternoon of music, games and activities, as well as giveaways including limited-edition adventure completion pins and bandanas. Food, beverages and merchandise will be available for purchase.
“We are proud to welcome Ranchos Walk participants again this year as they journey through District 4,” said Fourth District Councilmember Daryl Supernaw in a public statement. “I hope everyone enjoys this wonderful opportunity to come together, get outside and explore some of our most iconic and historical local landmarks.”
Led by the City’s Office of Climate Action and Sustainability, the Ranchos Walk is also supported by various City departments, including Health and Human Services, Public Works and Port of Long Beach, as well as Walk Long Beach.
“The Ranchos Walk brings us together to tour our wonderful city and reminds us how much there is to discover, even in our own backyards,” said Fifth District Councilmember Megan Kerr in a public statement. “This fun and educational adventure showcases beautiful local vistas and is a testament to our walkable infrastructure that allows participants to navigate miles of streets safely.”
The seventh annual Ranchos Walk will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will begin at Cal State Long Beach near Ranchos Los Alamitos (Lot E6, 1331 Palo Verde Ave.). Check-in at this stop is from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
The 6-mile start point will begin at Reservoir Hill (Reservoir Drive West), with check-in from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The 3.5-mile start point will begin at Willow Springs Park (2745 Orange Ave.), with check-in from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The walk will end at Ranchos Los Cerritos (4600 Virginia Road), with a celebration taking place from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participation in the event is free with online registration. Additional event details, including how to register and event starting locations, are available at lbcity.info/rw. View the event map here.
