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Hi! I’m Deborah Vankin and I’m a wellness writer for the L.A. Times.

We just finished putting together a massive guide to fantastic hikes in Los Angeles. While testing out the trails this spring, I went on about 10 solo hikes in a row. Lately, I’m craving company.



How about joining me? To celebrate the publication of our hiking guide, I’m inviting 30 L.A. Times subscribers to join me on the trail Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.

m. We’ll head to the Lower Arroyo Seco Trail , an easy 3.2-mile walk in Pasadena.

The trailhead starts at San Pascual Stables and journeys along the concrete river basin, with a few short trails that veer off from the main path. The hike also passes under two architecturally grand bridges, the 1922 San Rafael Bridge and the 1914 La Loma Bridge . It’s quite peaceful.

I can’t overstate the benefits of moving your body, outdoors, in nature. Like all exercise, it’s good for heart health, muscle conditioning and balance, not to mention mental health and overall mood . Hiking is my happy place — one that I’d like to share with you.

I’ll start and end the hike with a few gentle but essential stretches and give some history of the area along the way. I’ll also share my hiking experiences, gear recommendations and other tips — and I’d love to hear yours! The event will take about two hours, walking at a leisurely pace and with time built in for rest stops. It will be open to the first 30 subscribers who sign up, and it’s free to join.

Atte.

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