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Introducing Orange County

From the look-alike cities in the north to the newer, planned communities of the south, Orange County seems little distinguished from its colossal neighbor and economic parent, Los Angeles. But a deeper identity, rooted in geography, transcends the urban sprawl. Orange Countians are reminded of their uniqueness not so much by the human architecture of city and suburb, but rather by the blue Pacific, the green and tawny coastal hills, and the purple wall of the Santa Ana Mountains.

Out on the coastline and up along the foothills and mountains, you may discover for yourself Orange County’s place in the natural world. An hour or less of driving and less than two hours’ walk will take you from the frenetic city to any of several interesting natural environments, ranging from tidepools to fern-bedecked canyon streams to mountain peaks affording views stretching a hundred miles. You’ll discover fascinating rock formations, rich and varied plant life, a healthy population of native animals, and a sense of peace and tranquility.