Guides
A leisurely hike through an enchanted portion of the San Gabriel Mountains leading to a fifty foot waterfall.
The trail from Chantry Flats to Sturtevant Falls has been a popular hike for those wanting to escape the urban sprawl of Los Angeles since the early 1900's. This is an easy hike and perfect for anyone new to hiking but be aware that the last 0.6 mile return to the parking lot is all uphill. From the Santa Anita exit of the 210 Freeway it's a 5 mile...
A moderate 3 mile loop trail that begins and ends at the El Moro Visitor Center
The Green Route is a moderate, 2.9 mile loop hike through Crystal Cove State Park backcountry. The hike begins and ends at the El Moro Visitor Center. The length is perfect for a short hike, and the route gives you a good workout and a great taste of Crystal Cove's backcountry. The trail begins with a steady ascent, climbing about 500 feet in elevation....
A moderate, 5.5 mile loop that takes you through canyon and up to Moro ridge, with sweeping coastal views.
This trail begins and ends at the El Moro Visitor Center. This loop gives you a tour of the El Moro Canyon, then climbs over 800' in elevation to the ridge line, where you'll enjoy some of the best coastline views in the park.
A beautiful multi-landscape trail with many waterfalls and trees. Offers a challenging and well-maintained trail.
Big Santa Anita Canyon offers something for everybody. If you are traveling with young children, the short hike from Chantry Flat to Sturtevant Falls is rewarding and great for an easy morning or afternoon hike. However, if you're interested in something more substantial, you can follow the Big Santa Anita Loop trail. The scenery along the trails...
A strenuous 9 mile out-and-back hike that visits two beautiful seasonal waterfalls in Orange County.
When you think of hiking in Orange County, you don’t usually envision dramatic waterfalls. But during the spring, there are a number of wonderful seasonal waterfalls that are just a hike away. One of my personal favorites is Chiquito Falls. This hike is a 9 mile out-and-back route with nearly 3,000′ of vertical elevation gain. And it’s a waterfall...
This strenuous 9.1 mile hike follows the perimeter of the park, giving you a grand tour of Crystal Cove backcountry.
The Blue Route is also aptly known as the perimeter of the park hike, since it forms a complete loop around the perimeter of Crystal Cove State Park backcountry. This is a strenuous 9.1 mile hike with some good elevation gain and beautiful views over the Pacific and east toward Santiago and Modjeska Peaks. This "grand tour" of Crystal Cove backcountry...
A strenuous day hike through a beautiful section of the San Gabriel mountains with a 50 ft. waterfall.
Standing prominently above Pasadena, Mount Wilson is a Southern California landmark. The 5,710 foot summit is home for an observatory responsible for the most detailed photos of Mars as well a vast array of antennae for local LA radio and television stations. While the summit is steeped in astronomical wonder and tremendous views of Los Angeles, the...
A strenuous 11 mile loop hike with nearly 4,000 feet of vertical elevation gain to the 10,068' summit of Baldy.
Any Southern Californian can point out the white topped Mt. Baldy — actually it’s real name is Mt. San Antonio. Baldy is a SoCal icon that stands out boldly as a snow-covered backdrop for much of the year. At 10,068 feet above sea level, the snow often sticks around well into June. This loop begins at the Manker Flats trailhead (National Parks...
A challenging 11.6 mile out-and-back hike with 4,300 feet of elevation gain to the 8,859′ summit.
Cucamonga Peak offers amazing views over Southern California’s Inland Empire, east toward Apple Valley and beyond. This hike from Icehouse Canyon is a strenuous 11.6 mile out-and-back route with 4,300 feet of vertical gain and a top elevation of 8,859′. The north-facing slope holds snow much later in the season than other peaks. From atop Cucamonga...
Hike beside the famous broad beaches of Huntington on this easy, flat, paved multi-use trail.
Huntington Beach is famous for its wide, sandy beaches and surfing. It's also a great place for an easy, flat walk along the coastline. The key route is the wide, paved multi-use trail that parallels the coastline. Walking this trail from end to end (with a short side jaunt to the waters edge) adds up to just over four miles. Being paved and entirely...
A short trip into Eaton Canyon for an accessible waterfall. Great wildflowers in the spring, too!
This is a relatively easy less-than-four mile hike to a 40-foot waterfall. Its proximity to civilization and short distance make this a very popular trail for casual hikers, and it can get very crowded on the weekends and on hot summer days - but it's worth a visit even if you have to fight through crowds - especially when spring wildflowers carpet...
Plus the L.A. zoo, hiking and rides on historic trains, a carousel and ponies
As the largest municipal park with urban wilderness areas in the country, Griffith Park is easily a destination in itself. Much more than a city park, this urban parkland has numerous trails and historic attractions sprawled over 4,210 acres. Elevations range from 384 to 1,625 feet above sea level, and landscape changes from coastal sage brush to oak...
Hidden waterfall of Etiwanda
Nestled in the Etiwanda foothills is The Etiwanda Falls hike. Part of the North Etiwanda Preserve, it is a nice out and back hike suitable for the whole family. After going out and back head west from the trail and continue the rest of the preserve hike. 3.22 miles more. Or make it a REAL hike and add the Day Creek Gauging Station on the northwest corner...
Hike to Black Jack and learn about the old mines and history of the area
At this time, the Renton Mine Trail portion of the Trans Catalina Trail has to be accessed via Wrigley Road, which takes you up and over the ridge near Mount Ada. You’ll find the trailhead shortly after you pass the Inn at Mt. Ada in Avalon. The route to the trail head is paved and a bit steep, but the views of Avalon and the ocean are incredible....
Over 5 miles worth of scenic ocean trails in Rancho Palos Verde, California
www.hikewithvickster.webs.com - Ocean Scenic Trails At Trump Country Club is about 4.4 miles long (rail in map) and located near San Pedro Hill/Rancho Palos Verde, California. This place has it all. A beautiful golfcourse owned by Donald Trump, a picnic area with an amazing panaromic view of the ocean, must-do cliff side trails, a dog beach and some...
Easy and relatively short hike. Yet, very beautiful scenes, and landscapes.
This is a easy and relatively short hike, yet offers a very complete experience. As the name says, it is a loop trail in the Cleveland National Forest, off of Ortega Highway. It goes through different portions of open trail and really old oak trees covered sections. You can enjoy views of landscape, a small waterfall in a gorge and go along the creek...
A 10 mile hike along the San Gabriel River to the Bridge to Nowhere - a large concrete bridge in a rocky canyon.
The trail along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River to the Bridge to Nowhere is not only one of the best trails in Southern California, but it's also one of the most unique hiking experiences you'll ever have. After you leave the crowded (and overused) trailhead area, you will increasingly find yourself awed by the rugged canyons deep in the Sheep...
An intense dayhike or moderate backpack in the Cucamonga Wilderness.
A nearly-14 mile in-and-out that hits two of the tallest, most prominent peaks in the Angeles National Forest. Beginning with the historic, alpine brook that runs through Icehouse Canyon, this trail climbs through picturesque pine and cedar to Icehouse Saddle before visiting the site of an old trail resort and ascending a long ridge between the two...
Day 1 of a 4-day backpacking trip spanning the entire length of Catalina Island.
This is a long, strenuous hike, especially if you are backpacking. But the views are amazing. Beautiful blue ocean views in every direction in the morning, and incredible solitude, serenity and interior island views in the afternoon.
Surprises at every turn
We took a forked trip to hike the two canyons. One was short, almost too short but in retrospect a way to start experiencing the alive canyons with the spider webs hanging from branches to rocks and filtering the sunlight. Or the pleasant surprised of seeing a small rattle snake on the concrete walkway out of the forest. The early morning hike gave...
The first half of the trail to Mount Wilson, an old camp used by Mr Wilson himself.
The trail was originally built by Benjamin Davis Wilson, who was the grandfather of General George S. Patton around 1852. The trail followed an old Indian trail and as legend has it, was used by the Spaniards to hunt for Grizzly Bears. Ben Wilson wanted to find better wood on the mountain, but was unable to locate any so the trail reverted to...
A long, scenic loop from Icehouse Canyon to the Three Tee's Trail covering Timber Mtn, Telegraph Peak, and Thunder Mtn.
Icehouse Canyon, nestled among cedar and pine, is a popular spot for casual hikers to enjoy alpine scenery and a year round stream. It is also served to more experienced hikers as a gateway to peaks in the Cucamonga Wilderness including the Three Tee’s Trail which summits Timber, Telegraph, and Thunder Mountains. From Icehouse trailhead, it is...
A great easy to moderate hike if you are visiting or new in town with great views of the Hollywood sign. The total hike is a little over 4 miles and will take about 1-2 hours depending on your hiking speed, resting or taking in the beautiful views. At the top is a great 360 degree view behind the famous sign.
A nice easy loop trail for people who visit the airport, with great views of Black Jack Mountain and Cottonwood Canyon
As its name implies, this hike loops around the perimeter of the airport. This is a nice easy trail for people who visit the airport using the Wildlands Express Service, call (310) 510-0143 for reservations, or if you are looking for a break on the Trans Catalina Trail. It takes you past the ponds on the north side of the airport and the Soapstone Quarry....
Two of the Islands most exotic locals, Little Harbor and its twin, Shark Harbor
Shark and Little Harbors are Catalina Island favorites; a must-see for first-timers. Due to the layout of the surrounding coast, Little Harbor is nearly always calm, while Shark is nearly always churning. In the right weather, you might even spot a few surfers taking advantage of the waves. You can also arrange for kayak rentals from town, before you...
Day 2 of a 4-day backpacking trip along the entire length of Catalina Island.
Day Two begins with some roller-coaster hills that culminate at the Catalina Airport. Stop in for a souvenir or a quick bite, then enjoy the long downhill to Little Harbor. Little Harbor makes a great place to break for lunch and prepare for the long, arduous climb up the ridgeline. This section from Little Harbor to Two Harbors is one of the most...
7.9 mile trail near Dells, California
Ice House Canyon is about 7.9 miles long and located near Dells, California. The trail is great for hiking and normally takes a full day. The Ice House Canyon is a popular day hike with a trail head just north of Mount Baldy Village. The trail is not to strenuous, but if you are hiking in the winter, snow and Ice is a factor. The saddle is the...
By Merton Hill, PhD, Saddleback College
Spectacular ocean panoramas and contorted rocky cliffs are yours to enjoy on this self-guided tour of the geology of Crystal Cove State Park. This Beach Geology Tour is available as a brochure at the Crystal Cove Park Interpretive Store and was written by Dr. Merton Hill with images provided by Drs. Merton & Annlia Hill. Begin by taking the path...
1.1 mile trail near Fullerton, California
Fullerton Creek is about 1.1 miles long and located near Fullerton, California. The trail is great for hiking and normally takes 1 hour or less
El Dorado Park, Long Beach, California USA
These trails are hidden gems in the busy city of Long Beach. You would never know that you were not lost in hidden woods, rather then less then 1/2 mile from a busy freeway. The nature center itself is very good, featuring a little menagerie of local wildlife, and educational things for children. They sell items, and they occasionally have special...
Enjoy endless beaches, seaside towns and a trail that allows you to enjoy the beauty of southern California at its best.
I wish they all could be California trails! This trail follows two of the most beautiful beaches in California and provides access to great seaside communities, piers, and main streets. In this guide, I will give you suggestions for where to start the trail, how to stay on the trail, (It gets confusing in one spot.) rental suggestions, website recommendations,...
A good hike or bike UP a fire road to a seasonal spring
This is an almost all uphill climb from the Tucker wildlife sanctuary to the springs. The hike can be strenuous do to the incline. The spring is seasonal and a little hard to get to. The views on the way up are amazing. The trail is a fire road with no shade. If you hike on the weekend expect to see mountain bikers. The trail is wide enough I...
Hike along the ridge line of Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park to a wonderful view of the ocean.
This hike along the southern ridge of the Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park is fairly easy, with only a short moderate hill at the end. As you walk you'll find the park to your right and suburbs and homes to your left, so you don't really get an out in nature feel to the hike. Pleanty of room for bikers, hikers, dog walkers and runners At...
Alternate access to Claremont Wilderness loop.
This is a simple out and back trail that takes you to one of those intersections. If you look at the overview map you will see ow this tail can be combined with others to suit your needs for mileage, endurance, adventure, or time limits. This is a beautiful area full of trails for everybody and every level of fitness. Please keep our trails clean....
8.8 mile trail in Sierra Madre, California
www.hikewithvickster.webs.com - Overview: Started the day at about 7am and began the trail opposite of the crowds toward the Spruce Grove and Sturtevant Campground. By 8am, the sun was in full force and the heat was already bearing down, less than 2 miles into the hike. I had checked, at the end of the hike around 1pm and nearby Pasadena was 103 degrees....
2.604 mile dirt road near Verdugo City / Montrose, California
Whiting Woods Motorway is 5.208 miles long round trip. It is fairly steep consequently there are fewer mountain bikes common at other hikes in the Verdugos. Starting at the end of Whiting Woods Road, passing through the locked gate you quickly start climbing, 2.604 miles to go. The road starts out steep, get used to it, this is going to be...
Hike to the highest point in the City of Los Angeles from Haines Cyn Ave in Tujunga
This trip starts at the end of Haines Cyn Ave in Tujunga, parking can be a challenge but as a fall back position you can park at the city property near the intersection with Apperson St. Proceed through the locked gate POI 1 and past the Debris Basin, which is the site of the now long gone City of Tujunga water department to POI 2 another locked...
The trailhead and first ¼ mile are in a quiet residential area and crosses private property PLEASE stay on the road and don't disturb the residents or the road will be closed to public use. This trip follows Burbank Power & Light Road from Oliver Canyon Debris Basin Rd to a saddle on the ridge 1.8 miles 770 ft gain. While this seems not too steep...
A moderate beach hike along a geologically significant area in San Onofre State Beach, visting the Cristianitos fault.
The Cristianitos Fault is a major earthquake fault line located less than one mile from the San Onofre nuclear power plant. This hike takes you on a 3.8 mile loop through San Onofre State Beach to the site of the fault line. Along the way, you’ll see the Monterey Formation, which holds most of the oil and gas deposits known in the LA basin and off...
