From beach hikes to thick wooded trails, the Orange County area is home to a diverse hiking environment. Hikers can experience the blooming fields of the Mojave Desert or hike the largest park above Laguna Beach in Aliso Viejo. Trails also run along the coastline on the Pacific Ocean and explore the beaches of Orange County. Whether you are a beginner or experienced hiker, the region has a hiking trail for you.
Crystal Cove
The Crystal Cove trail is located in Newport Coast's Crystal Cove State Park and begins at the park's ranger station. The trail is ideal for intermediate hikers and is about five miles. One major incline, the "BFI," leads up to Moro Ridge Road and around the East Cut-Across. From there, the trail becomes steep and takes hikers into El Moro Canyon. The hike takes approximately two hours, according to the hiking website OC-Hiking.com, and highlights include native plants like black sage. The ranger station has restrooms, water and maps available. Wear comfortable clothing and layers to accommodate the temperature variations along the hike. The trail is open to hikers, as well as runners and bikers.
Crown of the Sea Trail
The Crown of the Sea Trail in Corona del Mar stretches along the Pacific coastline from Corona del Mar Beach to Abalone Point near Crystal Cove State Park. The trail is seven miles round-trip and features the beaches and rocky cliffs of Pelican Point and Arch Rock. At the south end of Corona del Mar State Beach is a paved walkway that leads up to Inspiration Point. According to Hike-OC.com, Inspiration Point offers excellent views of the Orange County coast. Certain portions of the hike have steep sections, so be sure to wear shoes with good traction.
Deer Canyon
The Deer Canyon trail is located in Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Coast and is great for beginners. The loop hike begins at Bommer Ridge by the Ridge Park entrance at Laguna Wilderness and Crystal Cove. The trail leads down toward the ocean and descends into the Deer Canyon campsite. According to OC-Hiking.com, parts of the trail are covered with rock debris from slopes but most of the trail consists of coastal scrub and bushes. A short but steep incline leads back up to the Pacific Ridge. There is minimal shade so bring plenty of water. The loop is approximately four miles long and you should plan for up to two hours for the hike if you are a beginner.
Aliso & Wood Canyons
Intermediate hikers should tackle the trails in the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park near Aliso Viejo. The area is referred to by locals as "The Laguna Hills," according to Hike-OC.com, and is the largest park above Laguna Beach at 3,400 acres. The main trail leads into a thick, wooded and shady area that is home to oak, sycamore and elderberry trees. Hikers can choose to take the Wood Canyon Trail or the Wood Creek Trail for the first few miles. A highlight along the route is Dripping Cave, a rock overhang. From there, the trail leads into the Mathis Canyon Trail, which features a 700-foot gain over 1.3 miles. The top of the ridge affords a panoramic view of Laguna Canyon, Aliso Viejo and the Pacific Ocean. The ridge also makes for a great picnic spot. The West Ridge Trail leads to the Cholla Trail and brings hikers back to the beginning. The entire hike is about eight miles and can take up to three hours.
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
The Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve located in the Mojave Desert near Lancaster has about five-and-a-half miles of hiking trails suitable for hikers of any skill level. Two loops originate at the reserve's visitor center. The Poppy Trail is about two miles of easy hiking, while the 3.5-mile Lightning Bolt Trail has an elevation-gain of about 300 feet. The trail leads to Kitanemuk Vista Point, which features unobstructed views for miles around, according to OC-Hiking.com. Shortcuts are available for both trails. The entire hike takes approximately two hours. Dogs are not permitted on these trails, and it is prohibited to pick the flowers in the fields. Restrooms and water are available at the reserve's parking lot.
Member Comments
nobodyhikesinla October 1
Nice post. As an avid hiker I'm always looking for new places to get out and explore.