Anaheim, California
Anaheim, California offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures. One of the top must-visit spots is the Oak Canyon Nature Center. This 58-acre natural park is nestled in the Anaheim Hills, featuring four miles of hiking trails through oak woodland and coastal sage scrub, leading to a year-round stream. You'll see a variety of birds and local wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching. Another highlight is the Santa Ana River Trail, a multi-use trail that runs alongside the Santa Ana River, offering stunning views and opportunities for biking and horseback riding. The trail is flat and easy, making it accessible for all fitness levels. For a more challenging hike, head to the Anaheim Hills Trail, known for its steep inclines and panoramic views over the city.
Top Spots in and near Anaheim
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Burbank, California
Old Youth Camp Loop
2.59 mi / 732 ft gainThe Old Youth Camp Loop is a 2.6-mile loop with over 700 feet of elevation gain that can be ran, hiked, or even mountain biked if you prefer. While not completely empty the area receives very little visitors and is a great place to enjoy a little more solitude than near by hiking locations. The l...Read more -
San Clemente, California
San Clemente State Beach
4.54.58 mi / 26 ft gainSan Clemente State Beach is an out-and-back trail that takes past scenic surroundings located near San Clemente, California.Read more -
Pearblossom, California
Snowshoe Buckhorn Ridge Trail
2.5 mi / 700 ft gainLocated 1 mile east of the Mt Waterman Ski Resort, Buckhorn Ski Hill is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll through a snow-covered forest, complete with views of towering Mt Waterman. To get here take I-210 toward La Canada, exit on to California Highway 2 (Angeles Crest Highway) heading no...Read more -
Los Angeles, California
Verdugo Peak via Hostetter Fire Road
5.07.39 mi / 1627 ft gainVerdugo Peak, at 3000 feet, is accessible from multiple directions and trails along the Verdugo Range. The most direct route to the top is Hostetter Fire Road, a 3.6-mile hard-packed dirt trail that climbs 1600 feet to the 3,126-foot summit. The hike begins at the dirt parking lot off of La Tuna ...Read more -
Los Angeles County, California
Big Tujunga Canyon Lookouts
1.22 mi / 453 ft gainPark at the Condor Peak Trailhead, please note that this trail head is unmarked so keep your eyes peeled on the right side of the turnout for a small single track trail. The trail gradually climbs along the side of the canyon until reaching a 4 way intersection. To your left and to your right wil...Read more -
Pearblossom, California
Cooper Canyon Falls via Burkhart Trail
5.03.01 mi / 755 ft gainBurkhart Trail is well-defined and easy to follow through an unbelievable old growth of Jeffrey pines, incense-cedars and surprisingly, redwoods! At 0.25 miles, there is a steep spur trail near a large pile of boulders that leads to a popular swimming area, often frequented by guests of the campg...Read more -
Santa Monica, California
Spend a Day at the Santa Monica Pier
4.2*Unlimited photography options with the ferris wheel, beach, ocean, and sunsets *Abundant people watching opportunities *Plenty of ways to get a workout in including swimming, volleyball courts, running, or riding a bike There is a bike and walking path that runs along the coast. One of my favo...Read more -
Pearblossom, California
Camp at Horse Flats Campground
3.0The Horse Flats Campground is located 29 miles up Highway 2 from Interstate 210. You will turn left at the Santa Clara Divide Road(this intersection is also known as 3 Points). 3 miles down the road you will turn left to enter the campground. I have camped here a few times and its always been pre...Read more -
Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail
4.03.33 mi / 20 ft gainThe Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail in Santa Monica, California, offers a unique blend of coastal and urban hiking. The trail is a flat, paved 3.33-mile loop that is suitable for all skill levels. It starts at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark known for its Ferris wheel and...Read more -
Pearblossom, California
Mt. Waterman
5.05.87 mi / 1499 ft gainMt. Waterman is accessed along Highway 2 in the Angeles National Forest. Heading east from La Canada look for mileage marker 58.0 (34 miles from La Canada) just past the closed ski resort. Park at one of the large paved turnouts on your left. Display an Adventure Pass ($5 at Ranger Station or Big...Read more -
Pearblossom, California
Cooper Canyon Trail Camp
5.37 mi / 1214 ft gainThere's a small parking lot just below Cloudburst Summit on the way to Mount Waterman. Start your adventure there. I'd be hard-pressed to say it's more than 15 yards from the sign for the summit (7018' AMSL). There's a fire road, if you're newer to altitude and don't know how to read a map (or e...Read more -
Azusa, California
Little Jimmy Trail Camp
4.33.36 mi / 607 ft gainTake Hwy 2 out of La Canada north along Angeles Crest Highway. Follow this for quite some time enjoying the fine views in all directions. After traveling through two consecutive tunnels continue to the Islip Saddle parking lot (on left). There will be a vault toilet & a picnic table. Display ...Read more -
Los Angeles County, California
Mt. Williamson via Islip Saddle
4.16 mi / 1519 ft gainThe trailhead is immediately off of Angeles Crest Highway CA-2 at Islip Saddle. It's just a touch over 2 miles to reach the summit, through which you'll be hiking among the pine tree forest practically the entire way up (part of this trail doubles as the Pacific Crest Trail). The summit is larg...Read more -
Riverside, California
Hike Two Trees Trail
2.5 mi / 977 ft gainParking is free at the trailhead, but there is only room for approximately five cars. The trailhead is on the edge of a neighborhood, so you can park there if needed. From the parking lot, head west, and immediately veer right and across the bridge. If you go left at the first fork, you can stay ...Read more -
Los Angeles, California
Verdugo's North Ridge Trail
12.7 mi / 2684 ft gainThe Verdugo Mountain Range is a small, rugged range spanning across the northeast end of the San Fernando Valley from Sun Valley to Glendale. With close to 50 miles of graded and well-maintained trails, the Verdugos are surprisingly underutilized and make a great place for someone looking to esca...Read more -
Los Angeles, California
Verdugo Mountain Traverse
5.012.13 mi / 0 ft gainThe Verdugo Mountain Range is a small, rugged range spanning across the northeast end of the San Fernando Valley from Sun Valley to Glendale. With close to 50 miles of graded and well-maintained trails, the Verdugos are surprisingly underutilized and make a great place for someone looking to esca...Read more