Santa Ana, California

The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Santa Ana, California, offer a unique blend of scenic beauty and physical challenge. One of the top must-visit trails is the Santiago Creek Trail. It's an easy-to-moderate trail that winds along a beautiful creek. Along the way, you'll see unique rock formations and a variety of local flora and fauna. For a more challenging outdoor adventure, try the Peter's Canyon Trail. This trail features steep inclines, a variety of terrain, and stunning views of the surrounding area. It's a perfect trail for those looking to push their limits while enjoying the scenic beauty of Santa Ana. For a relaxing day, visit the Santa Ana River Trail, a paved path perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely walk. The trail offers beautiful views of the river and is a popular spot for bird watching. These trails are just a few examples of the outdoor activities and attractions available in and near Santa Ana.

Top Spots in and near Santa Ana

  • Mount Baldy, California

    Icehouse Saddle via Icehouse Canyon Trail

    3.8
    6.62 mi / 2562 ft gain
    The hike is accessible in all seasons, but in winter there can be snow and ice so special equipment may be useful, but not required. In mid-January there were patches of ice on the trail but were easily crossed in boots and trainers. You can take the trail and end at Ice house Saddle or continue ...
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  • Mount Baldy, California

    Ontario Peak and Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon Trailhead

    16.22 mi / 5610 ft gain
    We started out at 8am on a Sunday, usually parking at Ice House Saddle can be tricky, I would advise going earlier. We headed out on our journey hiking up to the saddle, when you reach the switchbacks there is a fresh water spring, it's the last place you can get water...so stock up! We pressed o...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Los Angeles River: West Bank Trail

    5.0
    14.4 mi / 331 ft gain
    Los Angeles River: West Bank Trail is an out-and-back trail that is good for all skill levels located near Los Angeles, California.
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  • Azusa, California

    Smith Mountain Trail

    6.69 mi / 3189 ft gain
    Smith Mountain Trail is an awesome day hike located near Glendora, California. This out-and-back trail offers great views of the Los Angeles National Forest and the potential for continuation to Bear Creek for even more variety of scenery. Smith Mountain is a moderately strenuous hike with an el...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Kayak the Marina Del Rey Harbor

    5.0
    The Marina Del Rey harbor covers 1.5 square miles making it the world’s largest small-craft harbor. Located southwest of Los Angeles, it is the homeport to nearly 6,500 local boats, ranging from small fishing boats, large private yachts, and even a multitude of unique houseboats. The harbor is ea...
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  • Glendale, California

    Beaudry Loop

    5.79 mi / 1572 ft gain
    The Beaudry Loop trail features a bench at the top with 360 degree views of the greater LA area. The trailhead is a little hidden on Beaudry Blvd. As Beaudry Blvd turns into Beaudry Terrace, you'll see cars parked at the paved trailhead. There is very little shade on the trail so bring ample sun...
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  • Los Angeles County, California

    Mt. Disappointment via Billy Riley Trail

    3.5 mi / 1132 ft gain
    From the 210 Freeway in La Cañada, take California Highway 2 north 14 miles up into the San Gabriel Mountains. Make sure you have your National Forest Pass (sold at REI or Ranger Station) or your Interagency Pass because they have started checking parked vehicles. At the Red Box Picnic area, make...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Aileen Getty Ridge Trail

    5.0
    3.55 mi / 1194 ft gain
    The Aileen Getty Ridge Trail is a singletrack trail that runs between Mt. Lee and Burbank Peak (the location of the Wisdom Tree). Though there are many options to access this trail, the most direct route is from the west via the Wonder View Trailhead. Start by parking on Lake Hollywood Drive near...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Lake Hollywood Trail

    4.7
    3.35 mi / 249 ft gain
    The Lake Hollywood Trail features beautiful wildflowers in the spring and is wheelchair accessible. A majority of the trail is paved, but approximately .6 miles is on dirt. Some of the trail is shaded, but bring sun protection regardless - especially in the summer. Dogs are not allowed on this tr...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Wisdom Tree

    4.9
    0.95 mi / 528 ft gain
    In Griffith Park, park along Lake Hollywood Drive and walk the paved quarter mile up Wonder View Drive to the start of Wonder View Trail. Here, walk through the yellow gate and make the first right after the road turns to dirt. Head up this unmarked single track path heading east up the mountain....
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Venice Canals

    4.3
    2.77 mi / 30 ft gain
    The canals are a fun and quiet place to relax away from the hectic Venice boardwalk. Take a stroll through the canals or even get in a run! The reflections in the water are the main attraction and are great for photography. Spring, after some rain, is the best time to go as the water levels are g...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Cahuenga Peak Loop Trail

    3.88 mi / 1237 ft gain
    The Cahuenga Peak Loop is perfect for trail runners and hikers. The trailhead is in Hollywood Hills - park off to the side on a street. This trail features beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Dogs are allowed on the trail if kept on leash. The trail can be dusty and dirty, so watch your step. Ke...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Cahuenga Peak via Burbank Peak Trail

    2.23 mi / 719 ft gain
    Cahuenga Peak via Burbank Peak Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Los Angeles, California.
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  • Avalon, California

    Camp at Hermit Gulch on Catalina Island

    3.9 mi / 1206 ft gain
    The Avalon port in Catalina is most easily accessed through the Catalina Express leaving from Dana Point, Newport Beach or Long Beach. The Hermit Gulch campsite is only a 20 min walk from the boat and is well run with restrooms, showers... etc. They also sell anything you might have forgotten for...
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  • Glendale, California

    Brand Library Loop

    5.0
    6.56 mi / 2648 ft gain
    Your adventure will start at the Brand Library parking lot. Walk behind the library towards the gated day use area and you will find the start of the trail on your right, Las Flores MTWY. The first half-mile rises over 500 feet to a plateau, equipped with benches, a park map and views of Griffit...
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  • Los Angeles, United States

    Verdugo Crest Trail

    4.0
    6.71 mi / 2510 ft gain
    The Verdugo Crest Trail is a 6.6 mile loop near Glendale, California. The trail features lovely wildflowers in the spring and beautiful views year-round. The trail is steep, so make sure you are wearing sturdy running or walking shoes. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on leash.  Va...
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