Several Conejo Valley residents have recently asked, “What outdoor programs and activities are available for adults?” Not only active adults but also our “seasoned citizens” too!
These folks, understandably, are seeking suitable recreational opportunities for themselves and other residents in our community and are unaware of the many options available. While there are many indoor classes and events offered at the Goebel Adult Community Center, there are also a number of outdoor recreational sports available through the Conejo Recreation and Park District (CRPD) as well. Whether you or someone you know is seeking a low-impact beginning-level activity or high-intensity competition, a wide range of choices is readily available.
An outdoor adventure could begin by visiting a neighborhood park. There are more than forty parks with playgrounds within the CRPD. And yes, playgrounds are for adults, too! You can take your children or grandchildren with you to play for a while or take your dog for a walk to one of the four parks that have off-leash areas to let them roam with the neighbors’ dogs. Both of you will likely make new friends!
At least eight parks have recreational walking paths, many of which are in a loop, so you can take multiple laps if you wish. For a more intense routine, there are several parks with circuits and fitness stations to guide you through a workout.
For a low-intensity pick-up game, drop by the adult center and join in the weekly horseshoe team competition. Newcomers are welcome, and it’s a very friendly bunch! You may find you want to attend on a regular basis.
Hiking on one of the many trails (more than 150 miles and counting) in our abundant open space is a great way to get some outdoor exercise, especially with a companion. The beauty of nature helps to melt away any worries of the day and makes for a really enjoyable outing. The Conejo Open Space Foundation has excellent descriptions and ratings for the many local hiking trails on its website (cosf.org). Several easier hikes to begin with are the Oak Creek Canyon Trail, the Prickly Pear Trail, the Rancho Potrero Loop, the Lang Creek Trail, and the Nature Trail in the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden. If you’d like to start hiking with a guide at first, sign up for “Hike with the Doctor.” These are easy, 90-minute hikes with a health-themed educational presentation along the way.
For those seeking a more athletic activity, CRPD offers many organized sports, including basketball, pickleball, tennis, soccer and softball. The community pool at California Lutheran University is open year-round for programmed classes, open swimming or laps.
If competitive team sports or intensive training is your preference, there are a variety of athletic organizations you can join to compete in regular events or leagues. These independent organizations offer badminton, cycling, fencing, field hockey and even more pickleball, soccer, softball, tennis and swimming.
For a complete listing of the current classes and programs, review the CRPD Recreation Program Guide mailed to every residence three times annually. You can also pick up a copy at any community center or visit the CRPD website at crpd.org. For classes and events at the Goebel Adult Community Center, review the Goebel Gazette or visit the website at crpd.org/gacc.
Now, go have some fun — and get some exercise at the same time!
Doug Nickles is a director/board member for the Conejo Recreation and Park District, the Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency and the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts. The views expressed are his and do not necessarily reflect those of the district, agency or the respective boards. He can be contacted via email at [email protected].
