Some Franklin Canyon adventures

If you’re planning a close-to-home “staycation” this holiday weekend, Franklin Canyon’s nature programs offer a variety of adventures for adults and kids.

Starting Saturday, July 2, at 10 a.m., Franklin’s Movie Magic casts its spell as visitors learn about the site’s rich history as a filming location for movies and TV shows, including such enduring favorites as the Andy Griffith Show and Star Trek. It’s an easy, two-hour walk “on location.”

If learning about earthquakes is more your thing, there’s also a two-hour program called Franklin’s Faults, starting at 11 a.m. Saturday. Learn how the faults created the canyon, and pick up some tips on quake preparedness, too. Then on Sunday, July 3, at 9 a.m., join the Nature Trek for a bracing two-hour hike exploring the canyon up and down. This one’s rated moderately difficult, so be prepared and be sure to bring water.

Finally, at 10 a.m. Sunday, a volunteer naturalist will lead the kids on a stroll through Franklin Canyon and help them construct their own nature art project. It’s geared to children ages 3-8, accompanied by a parent.

All programs begin at the Sooky Goldman Nature Center.

The programs are brought to you through a partnership among the National Park Service, the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and its sister agency, the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.

Franklin Canyon is located at 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills. Both the programs themselves and the parking are free, but leave your dogs at home. For more information, call (310) 858-7272 x131. And be sure to check out these hiking and safety tips before you set out.

Posted 6/29/11