Lake Elsinore, California
Lake Elsinore, California has many popular spots for anyone looking to explore the outdoors. With its scenic views, numerous trails, and variety of outdoor activities, there is something to satisfy everyone. From mountain biking and hiking to kayaking and fishing, there are plenty of activities to choose from. For the adventurous, there are rock climbing and rappelling opportunities. For the more relaxed, there are scenic drives, picnics, and bird watching. For those looking for a unique experience, there are hot air balloon rides and zip lines. For those who love the water, there are boat tours, water skiing, and jet skiing. There are also a variety of must-visit attractions in and near the area such as the Lake Elsinore Grand Prix, the Lake Elsinore Outlets, and the Lake Elsinore Casino. Come explore the best trails and activities in the area and make lasting memories.
Top Spots in and near Lake Elsinore
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Seal Beach, California
Seal Beach
4.7Seal Beach is a small beach community between Long Beach and Huntington Beach. Right off PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), this sandy beach is a great place to chill on a hot summer day. The high winds coming off the water makes it an ideal place to kite board, surf, or simply fly a kite along the sho...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Seven Falls via Murray Canyon Trail
4.01 mi / 587 ft gainA very scenic 4-mile round trip with a rewarding waterfall after a 2.5-mile hike/stroll. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of the Peninsula Big Horn Sheep (an endangered species), mule deer or other wild animals still roaming the high ground above the canyon. Less visited, Murray Canyon has its ...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Andreas Canyon
5.01.03 mi / 154 ft gainAndreas Canyon in Indian Canyons is located very close to Palm Springs in the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. It is one of the few places with abundant shade and running fresh water in an otherwise dry desert landscape. Enjoy a longer hike to a waterfall (Seven Falls) or stay ...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Maynard Mine Trail
5.82 mi / 2487 ft gainMaynard Mine Trail is a good choice if you're looking for decent elevation gain to get the hear rate up. The trailhead is at Andreas Canyon (in the Indian Canyons). The trail has a rapid elevation gain of 2300' in the first 2.5 miles. The entire trail, out and back, is about 6 miles. The actua...Read more -
Encinitas, California
San Elijo State Beach Campground
4.5This campground is located right next to the beach as well as next to the San Elijo Lagoon. Head to the beach during the day for a swim. This is also a great place to catch a sunset. If you want to stretch your legs and get moving a bit, you can hike around the San Elijo Lagoon to the east of the...Read more -
Big Bear Lake, California
Grand View Point
6.9 mi / 1312 ft gainGrand View Point is accessed via Pine Knot Trail, a 6.5 mile out and back hiking trail located at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, 1 mile from Big Bear Village. With its close proximity to town, Pine Knot Trail is popular in the summer with mountain bikers and the trailhead is often crowded in the win...Read more -
San Bernardino County, California
Deep Creek Hot Springs via Bradford Ridge
4.04.75 mi / 1335 ft gainLocated in the San Bernardino National Forest and part of the Pacific Crest Trail, the Deep Creek Hot Springs are a relaxing site for those of us without access to a Jacuzzi. There are at least 4 pools of hot (not just warm) water that you can soak in with your fellow neighbor (who may or may not...Read more -
San Diego, California
Battle Mountain's Cross
5.00.45 mi / 256 ft gainThis is a quick and easy hike for everyday explorers desiring a 20-minute sweat-inducing power walk leading to incredible views of urban development, Iron Mountain, Mt. Woodson, Mule Hill, and The 15. Come enjoy the views while sitting under the beautiful 20ft cross you've been admiring from the ...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Palm Canyon Trail
4.51.94 mi / 308 ft gainThe fifteen mile long Palm Canyon, one of the Indian Canyons, is among the most beautiful natural sites in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, expertly used by the Cahuilla people, and its abundant Washingtonia Filifera (California Fan Palm) stand in breathtaking contrast to th...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
South Lykken Trail to Simonetta Kennett Viewpoint
3.66.45 mi / 1654 ft gainThe South Lykken Trail is the south half of the 9.5-mile Carl Lykken Trail, which weaves along a series of mountain ridges above downtown Palm Springs. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. This section of the trail runs 3.2 miles one-way. You will gain just over 1600ft of elevation at the high...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
North Lykken Trail from W. Crescent Drive
1.67 mi / 906 ft gainNorth Lykken Trail from W. Crescent Drive is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Palm Springs, California.Read more -
Palm Springs, CaliforniaSouth Carl Lykken Trail - North Section
3.42 mi / 1076 ft gainSouth Carl Lykken Trail - North Section is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Palm Springs, California.Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station
9.41 mi / 8238 ft gainThe Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station is a challenging hike near Palm Springs, known for its dramatic elevation gain and scenic transitions from desert to alpine terrain. Starting from the Palm Springs Art Museum, the trail ascends over 8,200 feet in elevation before reaching the Palm...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Museum Trail
1.52 mi / 860 ft gainThe Museum Trail is a very steep climb with a 1,000 feet elevation gain in just one mile but has some great views of downtown Palm Springs. The hike starts behind the Palm Springs Art Museum. This trail can also access the Cactus to Clouds Trail that goes all the way to the top of Mt. San Jacinto...Read more -
Solana Beach, California
Annie’s Canyon via N Rios
4.71.34 mi / 92 ft gainIf you're looking for a super short hike, this 10 minute flat walk couldn't be more ideal. Start at 840 N Rios Avenue, Solana beach and walk east towards the FWY 5 where you will see Annie’s Canyon on your right. There is only one way to go up the canyons and it gets pretty tight in places, but y...Read more -
Big Bear Lake, California
Knickerbocker Road & Pine Knot Trail
5.06.1 mi / 1007 ft gainPark at the free parking lot behind the village off Knickerbocker Rd between Village Drive and Pedder Road. Ride up Knickerbocker Rd towards the mountain. Look out for the fire service road 2N08 that veers left and uphill. The first 2 miles are challenging steep uphill, but beautiful nonetheless....Read more
