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...
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...
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 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 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...
A moderate hike to a ruined mansion in the Santa Monica Mountains, complete with waterfall!
This is an incredibly picturesque, mostly shaded canyon hike in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Solstice Canyon Trail is a popular, well-maintained route with some spur-trail opportunities for more adventurous travelers. Some of the highlights include the oldest still-standing stone building in Malibu, a small waterfall and creek, and several ruins...
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...
A moderately difficult hike in Topanga Canyon State Park. Lush greens and beautiful views make this trail a hit!
A 7+ mile hike from the Pacific Palisades to a popular overlook in Topanga State Park. The first part of this hike – the Los Liones Trail – is one of the most lush riparian canyons I’ve ever seen in the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s gently graded, moderately shady, and definitely worth a look even if you have to fight crowds. Afterward, the...
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...
Up for a short hike with a big payoff?
Up for a short hike with a big payoff? Try the Garden to Sky Hike using the Memorial Road and Hermit Gulch trail. You can make the round trip in just a couple of hours and be back in time for whatever your Avalon plans may be. The trail head can be accessed via the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden located at the top of Avalon Canyon, a 1.75 mile...
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...
Great views all around! The LA basin, the San Fernando Valley, the ocean!
Saddle peak is the second highest in the Santa Monica mountains, after Sandstone peak. After a moderately difficult climb, you will reach the peak where you would enjoy great views of the LA basing and the surroundings. There are several ways to do this hike. The first time I went to Saddle Peak, I did a 10 mile hike where I started on the Topanga...
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.
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...
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....
Take a short trip to Cottonwood Beach and explore the unique land and seascape
Not far from Little and Shark Harbors, Cottonwood is less accessible and more private. Scoured by seasonal waters running through the watershed, Cottonwood offers a unique land and seascape. There’s even a small waterfall that runs in the rainy season. You can hike here on the Trans Catalina Trail, over from Little and Shark Harbors, or you can...
Views of Parsons Beach below and the Channel in the distance
While a relatively "short" hike this is a tough trail to get to, and to do, especially if it comes at the end of your exploration of the Trans Catalina Trail. The West End of Catalina Island is beautiful but is also one of the most inaccessible areas. Locals call it "The Wild West End." Best ways to get to this trail are by kayak from Two Harbors or...
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.
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...
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...
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...
Day 4 of a 4-day backpack trip along the entire length of Catalina Island.
You have completed the official Trans-Catalina Trail, but your journey isn't over yet! You still need to hike back to Two Harbors to catch the ferry back home or the bus to Avalon. This is the easiest day of the trip, following a nearly level dirt road that hugs the coastline, winding it's way back to Two Harbors. You'll pass many private camps...
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 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...
Day 3 of a 4-day backpacking trip along the entire length of Catalina Island.
Beyond the isthmus lies the most remote section of Catalina Island, and this long, 17 mile day rewards you with the most beautiful beach-front camping at Parson's Landing. You also will reach the official terminus of the Trans-Catalina Trail at the black sands of Starlight Beach.
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...
...and its FREE! The 2 mile loop takes you along wildlife trails at Cheseboro Canyon, just north of the 101 Freeway.
Cheeseboro (or Cheseboro or Chesebro) Park is one of the many National Park Sites within the SMMNRA (Santa Monica Nationa Recreation area) and is very popular with visitors due to its relatively level terrain. And it's great for kids and families! This guide is a one hour (two mile) hike, relatively flat, and has a great deal of wildlife all of...
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...
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...
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
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,...
Will Rogers SHP
The Inspiration Loop Trail provides a great opportunity to leave the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and quickly escape into the Santa Monica Mountains. Thanks to the generous gift of Betty Rogers we can learn about the importance of Will Rogers and share his love of nature and mankind. In addition to touring the historic Ranch House and learning...
A 7 mile hike with views of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and nearby mountains.
Eagle Rock is about 7.3 miles from Los Liones Rd off the PCH. The views during the hike include downtown LA, Sta Monica bay/beach, the mountains and Topanga Cyn Rd. The trail is mostly sunny, some parts are steeper than others, and some are shaded and cooler. One of the best views are sunsets.
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...
