Rescuers are still searching for two hikers who went missing last week in Joshua Tree National Park, a popular hiking spot for many of us here.
Elsewhere in the state, all the snow from last winter has been melting. It's created fast-moving and dangerous rivers, and those waters have claimed the lives of several people in California.
Whether you're on the trail for the first time, or you've been on hundreds of hikes, there are always precautions to take.
Jeff Hester is founder and editor of the website SoCalHiker.net, which shares guides to Southern California trails. He shared some tips with us for staying safe on the trail.
- If you're new to hiking or going somewhere for the first time, don't go alone.
- Tell someone else who is not on the trip what your plans are.
- Carry the ten essentials - a map, compass, sunglasses, sunscreen, extra food and water, extra clothes, flashlight, first aid kit, fire starter, matches and a knife.
To listen to the full segment, click the blue play button above.