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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Lake Elsinore, California
San Mateo Peak via Morgan Trailhead
5.04.47 mi / 784 ft gainSan Mateo Peak, standing at an elevation of 3,591 feet, is the highest summit in the Elsinore Mountains, a subrange of the Santa Ana Mountains in Southern California. The peak offers hikers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is accessible via the Morgan Trail. Hours of Operation...Read more -
Mount Baldy, California
Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) via the Ski Hut Trail
5.09.7 mi / 3990 ft gainMt. San Antonio, or Mt. Baldy as it is known locally, is one of the cans of the challenging "six-pack of peaks" in Southern California. For this one, start before the Manker campground and head up the fire road. This is known as the "Baldy Bowl or Ski-Hut Trail". You'll see some cabins on your l...Read more -
Los Angeles, California
Binocular Building
Frank Gehry's "Giant Binoculars" is a striking sculpture located in Venice, California. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry in collaboration with artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, this oversized artwork stands as a whimsical and surreal landmark. The sculpture itself res...Read more -
Los Angeles, California
Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
Explore the beauty of nature at the Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden in Los Angeles. Nestled within the UCLA campus, this enchanting garden showcases a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Wander through lush landscapes, serene ponds, and peaceful trails, perfect for nature lo...Read more -
Palmdale, California
Camp at Manzanita Loop in Chilao Campground
5.0Chilao Camp is located at an elevation of 5,300 feet, in the San Gabriel Mountains, and is divided into two different loops called the Manzanita and Pine.This specific adventure is for the Manzanita Loop, which is pretty much known as the more scenic loop, mainly because the area overlooks the Bi...Read more -
Palmdale, California
Camp at Chilao Campground
4.3While not as popular as shady Buckhorn Campground up the road, Chilao offers the better views and greater chances of scoring a peaceful and private campsite. There are two campsites located here (and two group camps down in the valley). Sites are first come, first serve, and cost $12 (bring exact...Read more -
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
Santa Monica Pier
4.0Unlimited 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
