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LOS ANGELES —With spring in full bloom, Los Angeles County and Orange County hikers have several scenic hiking trails to explore. The region’s diverse landscapes offer everything from rugged coastal cliffs to serene waterfalls, making it an ideal time to lace up hiking boots and hit the trails.
Solstice Canyon
Located in Malibu, Solstice Canyon offers a three-mile round-trip hike featuring ruins of an old stone house - Robert Ranch House, a seasonal waterfall, and scenic ocean views. The trail is rated easy to moderate, with shaded sections making it a pleasant choice for spring hiking. No entrance fee is required, and parking is available at the trailhead lot on Corral Canyon Road. More information is available at www.nps.gov.
Moro Canyon Trail
Crystal Cove State Park’s Moro Canyon Trail in O.C. provides a five-mile out-and-back route through coastal sage scrub. The moderate hike features sweeping ocean views and a gradual incline. A $15 day-use fee applies for parking at the Moro Canyon lot. Spring mornings are the best time to visit, as the midday sun can be intense. Visit www.crystalcovestatepark.org for details.
Mount Hollywood Trail
Griffith Park’s Mount Hollywood Trail remains open, offering a three-mile round-trip hike with views of the Griffith Observatory and the L.A. skyline. The well-maintained dirt path is rated easy to moderate and attracts casual walkers and fitness enthusiasts. Parking is available at the Griffith Observatory lot, though spaces fill quickly. No entrance fee is required. More details can be found at https://griffithobservatory.org/explore/griffith-park/.
Peters Canyon
Peters Canyon Regional Park in Orange is another springtime favorite. The 5.7-mile loop takes hikers through rolling hills and wetlands, with local wildlife sightings. The trail is rated moderate, with some steep sections. A $3 parking fee is required at the main lot, and early morning visits are recommended to avoid heat. Visit www.ocparks.com for more information.
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park - Lake Forest
The Red Rock Canyon Trail in Whiting Ranch offers a 4.2-mile round trip journey through Orange County's striking sandstone formations. This moderate hike features a dramatic color palette of rusty red cliffs contrasting with spring's green hillsides. The park charges a $3 parking fee at the Market Place entrance, where ample spaces are typically available on weekday mornings. Weekend visitors should arrive before 9 AM to secure parking. The best time to hike is mid-morning when the canyon's unique geology is illuminated by perfect lighting for photographs. For trail status and visitor information, visit: https://ocparks.com/parks-trails/whiting-ranch-wilderness-park
Top of the World
Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Laguna Beach features the Top of the World hike, a 2.4-mile out-and-back trek with expansive coastline views. The moderate trail has a steady incline but is well-maintained. Parking is available at Alta Laguna Park; no entrance fee is required. Early morning and late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. More information is available at www.ocparks.com.
Franklin Canyon Park - Beverly Hills
Hidden in the Santa Monica Mountains between the San Fernando Valley and Beverly Hills, Franklin Canyon Park offers a 2.3-mile loop around Franklin Canyon Reservoir. This easy to moderate trail features minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for families and beginners. The park is free to access, with no-cost parking available at the Sooky Goldman Nature Center, though spaces are limited on weekends. Early mornings provide opportunities for wildlife spotting, including the park's famous duck population and migratory birds. The shaded trail sections make this an excellent option for warm spring afternoons. For trail maps and park information, visit: https://mrca.ca.gov/parks/park-listing/franklin-canyon-park
Southern California’s hiking trails offer something for every skill level, from coastal paths with ocean views to forested routes leading to waterfalls. Spring is the perfect season to experience the region’s natural beauty, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers enhancing the journey. Whether seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging trek, these open trails provide a rewarding escape into nature. Before heading out, hikers should check local regulations and prepare for changing conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
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