La Quinta, California

This is a great trail and arguably, entering the mines is the coolest part. Bring a headlamp so you can see down tunnels. As you go past the giant boulders on the right, you enter a nice microclimate of cooler air and scrubby oak trees. Don't forget to look up - you'll see lots of erosion on the ...

Lake Fulmor is a small lake in the San Jacinto Wilderness near Idyllwild, CA.  The trail loops around the lake offering spectacular views and is good for all skill levels.  There are picnic tables, grills, and a small dock where you can peer out over the lake or cast a line.  To fish in Lake Fulm...

The trail is typically used for hiking, nature trips, and trail running. There are lots of opportunities to see desert plants and flowers. On clear days, you can see the Salton Sea. There is an old mine to explore from the outside, as the entrance has been sealed.  If you plan on going to the top...

The Pacific Crest Trail section from Whitewater Preserve to Stone House offers a challenging 12.4-mile out-and-back trek through the dramatic desert landscape of Southern California. Starting from the scenic Whitewater Preserve at 2,700 feet elevation, this trail section provides hikers with an...

The Whitewater Ranger Station to Cottonwood Trailhead via PCT is an epic 7.8-mile point-to-point trek through the San Gorgonio Wilderness of Southern California. This demanding trail segment offers PCT thru-hikers and adventurous day hikers a dramatic transition from desert landscapes to alpine...

Big Morongo Canyon Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Morongo Valley, California.

With doing more hikes in the SoCal area, I've realized half the battle is just trying to find the damn trailhead.Technically you have 2 ways to enter this trail ... Start from 79 and add a very enjoyable extra 3ish miles, or start from the Warner Springs Fire Station, for a total 7 mile hike.We c...

Experience the serene beauty of San Diego’s highlands on the Upper Santa Ysabel Creek Trail, a moderately challenging 7-mile loop near Julian that blends creek-side tranquility, open meadows, oak groves, and panoramic ridge views. Ideal for hikers, trail runners, and nature lovers, this trail i...

Vail Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Temecula, California.

estled within Palomar Mountain State Park in Pauma Valley, California, the Boucher Trail and Palomar Mountain Loop offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding experience. This 9-mile loop trail is renowned for its lush forests, panoramic vistas, and the historic Boucher Hill Fire Lookout. On aver...

Volcan Mountain Trail located near Julian, California is a moderate day hike. This well-maintained trail offers beautiful views, but keep in mind there isn't too much sun protection, so be sure to pack plenty of water and coverage on sunnier days.  Dogs are permitted on the trail on a leash. 

Starting at the trailhead on Hwy 79, enter through the gate and make sure to close it behind you - the preserve is open range area for herds of cows, make sure not to disturb them when hiking. From the gate you'll see the sign with a detailed map of trails that are available for hiking. The trail...

The West Vista Loop in Santa Ysabel, CA, is a moderately challenging trail known for its panoramic views of surrounding hills and valleys. Reviewers appreciate the well-maintained paths and gentle elevation gains, making it suitable for hikers of varying skill levels. The trail is dog-friendly ...

South Fork to Dollar Lake Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Banning, California.