If you are spending time in Orange County, California, time spent exploring the outdoors would not be wasted, nor boring! The landscapes never cease to amaze, the weather is nearly always ideal for a trek, and the views offer exquisite picture opportunities with the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ana Mountains just miles away. Whether you are seeking a challenge for your body and mind, wanting a casual jaunt to take with the family on a sunny afternoon, or trying to break in that new mountain bike, you will want to keep scrolling for the 10 best hiking and trekking spots in Orange County, California.
1. Laguna Beach Cliff Hike
Situated in South Laguna just slightly inland of State Route 1, Laguna Beach Cliff Hike provides some of the most spectacular views of Laguna and its sandy beaches. The trail is classified as moderate, not because of a challenging nature, but because of the length this trail runs throughout the varying coastland. On this hike, you will be treated to panoramic vistas of Laguna as you trek along. Keep an eye out for various animals along the way, as well as native flowers and trees which call the coast their home.
Laguna Beach Cliff Hike
Address: 22141 Paseo Del Sur, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
2. Santa Ana Mountains Trail Head
Orange County lies on the western side of the Santa Ana Mountains through which you can find dozens of trails venturing up into the peaks. You can find the Santa Ana Mountains Trailhead at the intersection Serrano Avenue and North Ranch Road, a few of miles south of Anaheim hills. The trailhead will lead you into the mountains where you will find trails of all kinds, from short loops that take a little over an hour to complete, to serious climbs requiring up to six hours of time. No matter which you choose, you will not cease to be enchanted by the beauty of the Santa Anas!
Santa Ana Mountains Trail Head
Address: Intersection of Serrano Ave. & Nohl Ranch Rd. Anaheim, CA 92807
3. Jeffrey Open Space Trail
This trail can be found in the city of Irvine, weaving for 5 miles (8 km) from the northern Portola Parkway to the southern Quail Hill. The trail can be accessed at the intersection of Trabuco and Jeffrey roads. Completely paved, it is a great trail that allows you to experience much of the town of Irvine simply by walking. Bring the dogs, bring the kids, bring your bike or roller skates, and enjoy a casual jaunt around the town.
Jeffrey Open Space Trail
Address: 13252 Jeffrey Rd, Irvine, CA 92620
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
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4. Holy Jim Trail (6W03)
Editors note. The trail is indefinitely closed due to damage. Please see the website for trail status.
The Holy Jim Trail takes about 1-3 hours to complete, heavily dependent on speed, and sits approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) off Trabuco Canyon Road on Trabuco Creek Road. The hike itself stretches 2.8 miles (4.5 km), but visitors will find the hike to be mostly easy, and an especially convenient choice for most seasons as the trail is heavily shaded. So if you’re planning on hiking during the hot summer months, this one is for you!
Holy Jim Trail (6W03)
Address: 20811-20899 Rose Canyon Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679, United States
Website: Holy Jim Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Quail Hill Trailhead
Situated in southern Irvine, Quail Hill Trailhead can be accessed from the end of Sand Canyon Road. It is a dirt path which most guests will find quite easy and peaceful to stroll along. Taking about one hour to complete, this trail is a natural path in a restoration area so veering from the path is discouraged–although there’s plenty to see along the route regardless! Roadrunners are a common sight, so keep your eyes peeled for these little guys who might cross your path.
Quail Hill Trailhead
Address: 34 Shady Canyon, Irvine, CA 92603
Website: Quail Hill Trailhead
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
6. Black Star Canyon Trailhead
Considered an out and back trail, this 6.8 mile (10.9 km) trek definitely takes a bit of time, but is well worth it. At the end of the hike you will come to some beautiful waterfalls that run especially strong after rain. Although this trail can get a bit muddy and slippery whether depending, it’s a relatively simple hike that provides a solid couple hours of exercise. Plus, Black Star Canyon holds a ton of mining history, so be sure to check out the interesting signs along the way.
Black Star Canyon Trailhead
Address: 13333 Black Star Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA 92676
7. Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a moderate hike, measuring in at 3.3 miles (5.3 km), in the out and back style of trails. You can park at the parking area of the trailhead for a fee of 5 USD which makes finding the trailhead simple! The trail itself is moderate, with other trails breaking off that are all of varying difficulty. Dogs are allowed on leashes, so you can bring your furry friend, but make sure you pack extra water for all of you – shade is nonexistent on this hike. As you travel along, keep your eyes up to soak in the beautiful views of the canyon around you.
Red Rock Canyon
Address: 26701 Portola Pkwy, Lake Forest, CA 92610, United States
Website: Red Rock Canyon
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Roadrunner Loop Trail
To get to the Roadrunner Loop Trail, park in the Parking Area 3 off of Irvine Road. Cross Irvine Road and you’ll see both the Roadrunner Loop Trail and the Santiago Creek Trail. Roadrunner Loop circles 1.4 miles (2.3 km) and since it is not heavily trafficked, you’ll find it a peaceful trek. The loop offers a good area for exercise, but since the incline is nothing too dramatic, it’s a great choice for all levels!
Roadrunner Loop Trail
Address: Roadrunner Loop Trail, Mwd Rd. Orange, CA 92869
9. Aliso Creek and Wood Canyon Loop Trail
One of the busier trails in the county, Aliso Creek and Wood Canyon Loop Trail is a long, flat trail perfect for running, walking, or strolling and taking in the scenery. Running in a circular 10.5 miles (16.9 km), the loop takes a while to complete, but its flat landscape allows for perfect pacing of oneself! Look for the cave and the river, as well as the seasonally blooming cactus, along this lovely route. And for those into mountain biking, Aliso Creek and Wood Canyon Loop Trail comes highly recommended for its length and trail style!
Aliso Creek and Wood Canyon Loop Trail
Address: 28373 Alicia Pkwy, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
10. Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
The sprawling Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park encompasses many of the nearby trails and creeks of the surrounding area within its boundaries. Here you can find 2,500 acres (1,011 hectares) of forests, grassy hills, and plunging canyons with hiking, biking, and even riding opportunities. With 10 moderate trails ranging from 2.9 (4.7 km) to 12.4 miles (20 km) in length, you are sure to find one to suit your skill level, the amount of time you want to spend outdoors, and the best one for the season! Whether you want to walk near the water or traipse through the trees, Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park is the hiking grounds for you!
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
Address: 27901 Glenn Ranch Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Opening hours: 7am - sunset (daily)
Price: 3 USD
An ideal place for trekking
Orange County, California, with its vast landscape of coastal areas and sandy beaches, to deep red canyons, to forests pecked with cacti, has plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and up close with the flora and fauna of the area. Whether you are an advanced hiker or a casual stroller, you’re sure to find the perfect hike for you in this beautiful area!