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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

  • Palm Springs, California

    Palm Canyon Trail

    4.5
    1.94 mi / 308 ft gain
    The 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...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    South Lykken Trail to Simonetta Kennett Viewpoint

    3.6
    6.45 mi / 1654 ft gain
    The 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...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Indian Canyon West Fork Trail

    5.3 mi / 1545 ft gain
    Indian Canyon West Fork Trail is a strenuous out-and-back trail located near Palm Springs, California.
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  • Palm Springs, California

    North Lykken Trail from W. Crescent Drive

    1.67 mi / 906 ft gain
    North Lykken Trail from W. Crescent Drive is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Palm Springs, California.
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  • Palm Springs, California

    South Carl Lykken Trail - North Section

    3.42 mi / 1076 ft gain
    South Carl Lykken Trail - North Section is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Palm Springs, California.
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station

    5.0
    9.41 mi / 8238 ft gain
    Skyline Trail to Aerial Tramway Top Station is a point-to-point trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Palm Springs, California.
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Museum Trail

    1.52 mi / 860 ft gain
    The 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...
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  • Solana Beach, California

    Annie’s Canyon Trailhead

    4.7
    2 mi / 100 ft gain
    If 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...
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  • Big Bear Lake, California

    Knickerbocker Road & Pine Knot Trail

    5.0
    6.1 mi / 1007 ft gain
    Park 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....
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  • La Verne, California

    Cattle Canyon Trail

    6.7 mi / 1066 ft gain
    Within the San Gabriel Mountains from Highway 39 and along East Fork Road is Cattle Canyon. To go through Cattle Canyon, you can access the trail head just south of the Bridge to Nowhere trail head along East Fork Road right after it intersects with Glendora Mountain Road. There is a small parkin...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Murray Hill Loop

    8.16 mi / 2260 ft gain
    Murray Hill Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Palm Springs, California.
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  • Whittier, California

    Hellman Park Trail

    3.0
    4 mi / 850 ft gain
    This trail is great if you're looking for a quick, but intense workout. The hike itself is only 4 miles out- and-back and can be easily completed within a couple of hours. However, be prepared for a steep and steady incline for the first 1.5 miles. The trail itself is pretty wide, and if you sho...
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  • Fawnskin, California

    Grays Peak Trail

    1.0
    6.95 mi / 1293 ft gain
    This is a fairly easy mountain peak to climb.  The trailhead is easily accessible right off of Hwy 38 by the town of Fawnskin.  There is a large National Forest sign noting the parking area to Grays Peak Trail.  Note that parking in this lot requires either a day pass or a California Adventure pa...
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  • La Verne, California

    Bridge to Nowhere via East Fork Trail

    4.4
    9.65 mi / 1798 ft gain
    The trail on this 10-mile hike is predominately slow and steady, but can be a little rocky, so be prepared to scramble. When you’re fording the river, the water level can range from knee to chest high, especially in the wet months. A good pair of waterproof hiking boots is helpful, but water shoe...
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  • Long Beach, California

    Colorado Lagoon

    5.0
    0.95 mi / 30 ft gain
    The Colorado Lagoon is a wetland that is being restored. To make this 1 mile walk into a loop, you have to walk along sidewalks near the park. This is a very kid-friendly destination. This trail crosses over the lagoon on a boardwalk. It also accesses a sandy swimming beach with restrooms, picnic...
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  • Long Beach, California

    Red Car Greenbelt

    5.0
    0.63 mi / 0 ft gain
    The Greenbelt used to be the right-of-way for the long lost Pacific Electric Red Car, an amazing system of public transportation that connected Long Beach, LA, Orange Coutny, and even San Bernardino. The pathways are landscaped with plants typical of the area and plenty of native flowers for the...
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