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Finding the perfect trail in Southern California is like finding a gem in a jewelry box — so many beautiful options to choose from! As an avid hiker who’s spent countless weekends exploring the diverse terrain of SoCal, I’ve compiled my absolute favorite places to hike in Southern California for 2025. From coastal cliffs to mountain peaks, these trails offer something for every level of hiker, whether you’re looking for a quick nature fix or a challenging all-day adventure.
What makes the places to hike in Southern California so special is the incredible variety packed into one region. Where else can you hike along pristine beaches in the morning and scale mountain peaks by afternoon? With year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, 2025 is the perfect time to explore these trails that showcase the best of what SoCal has to offer.
Runyon Canyon – Hollywood’s Backyard
Playground
- Best for: Celeb-spotting & city views
- Why I love it: Quick escape from LA, dog-friendly, and killer sunset views
- Trail tip: Go early to avoid crowds—this is one of the best easy hikes in SoCal
Whenever I need a quick hiking fix without leaving the city, Runyon Canyon is my go-to spot among all the places to hike in Southern California. There’s something incredibly satisfying about being surrounded by nature while still seeing the sprawl of Los Angeles below you. The 3-mile main loop can be completed in under two hours, making it perfect for a morning workout before heading to weekend art and wine festivals in the area.
What makes Runyon special is its accessibility. You can bring your four-legged friends (it’s completely off-leash in designated areas), and the multiple trail options mean you can take an easy stroll or challenge yourself on the steeper paths. Fair warning: weekends get packed with locals and tourists alike, so I recommend starting before 8am for a more peaceful experience. The panoramic views of LA, the Hollywood Sign, and on clear days, all the way to the ocean, make it worth braving the crowds.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – Coastal Cliffs Paradise
- Best for: Ocean lovers & photographers
- Why I love it: Dramatic cliffs, easy trails, and perfect for a beach day after
- Trail tip: The Razor Point Trail is my favorite—short but stunning
When talking about the best places to hike in Southern California in 2025, Torrey Pines deserves a special mention. This coastal gem combines easy hiking with breathtaking ocean views that honestly never get old. The reserve features several interconnected trails ranging from 0.7 to 1.5 miles, making it perfect for hikers of all levels and ages.
The Razor Point Trail is my personal favorite — just over a half-mile, it leads to a stunning outlook point where I’ve spotted dolphins playing in the waves below. The rare Torrey pine trees (found only here and on Santa Rosa Island) create a unique landscape that feels almost otherworldly. After hiking, I always head down to the beach for a relaxing afternoon by the water, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike who appreciate beautiful landscapes.
Eaton Canyon – Waterfall Wonder in Pasadena
- Best for: Waterfall chasers & beginners
- Why I love it: Shady, family-friendly, and ends with a refreshing waterfall
- Trail tip: Weekdays are quieter—weekends get packed
Among the most accessible places to hike in Southern California is Eaton Canyon, a true hidden gem in Pasadena. The trail is relatively flat and follows a creek to a 40-foot waterfall that flows year-round (though it’s most impressive after winter rains). At just 3.5 miles round trip, it’s perfect for beginners or when I’m looking for a quick nature fix without committing to a full day.
What I love most about this trail is the shade provided by the canyon walls and oak trees, making it refreshing even on hot summer days. The waterfall at the end creates a natural gathering spot where hikers often stop to dip their feet in the cool water. This trail has become one of my favorite places to clear my head when I need a break from my home office environment. Just remember to bring plenty of water and arrive early on weekends, as parking fills up quickly!
Mount Baldy – The Ultimate SoCal Challenge
- Best for: Thrill-seekers & experienced hikers
- Why I love it: The highest peak in LA County—views for days
- Trail tip: Bring layers—it gets chilly at the top, even in summer
For serious hikers looking for challenging places to hike in Southern California, Mount Baldy (officially Mount San Antonio) stands tall above the rest—literally! At 10,064 feet, this monster of a mountain offers the most intense dayhike in the LA area. The most popular route, the Devil’s Backbone Trail, spans about 11 miles round-trip with nearly 4,000 feet of elevation gain.
The effort pays off with truly spectacular 360-degree views that stretch from the desert to the ocean on clear days. I’ve hiked Baldy in different seasons, and each offers a unique experience—from wildflower-covered slopes in spring to snowy adventures in winter (though winter hiking requires proper equipment and experience). The temperature difference between the bottom and top of the mountain can be dramatic, so layering is essential, just like with seasonal home decor that adapts to changing conditions. The sense of accomplishment when reaching the summit is unmatched among SoCal hikes.
Escondido Falls – Malibu’s Cascading Treasure
- Best for: A scenic, moderate hike with a waterfall
- Why I love it: Lush greenery, creek crossings, and a hidden gem feel
- Trail tip: Visit after rain for the best waterfall flow
Escondido Falls ranks high on my list of favorite places to hike in Southern California because it feels like a mini-adventure every time. This 4-mile round trip hike in Malibu takes you through a diverse landscape—starting on a paved road through a ritzy neighborhood before transitioning into a natural creek-side trail with multiple water crossings that make you feel like you’re miles from civilization.
The main attraction is the two-tiered waterfall at the end. The lower falls are accessible to most hikers, while the upper falls require some scrambling and are best attempted by experienced hikers only. What makes this trail special is how lush and green it becomes after winter rains, creating a scene that reminds me of something from America’s wine country rather than drought-prone SoCal. Time your visit between January and May for the best waterfall flow, and don’t forget to bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet!
These five trails showcase the incredible diversity of places to hike in Southern California in 2025. From the celebrity-studded paths of Runyon Canyon to the challenging summit of Mount Baldy, there’s truly a trail for every mood and ability level.
What makes these hikes special isn’t just the views or the physical challenge—it’s the way they connect us to the natural beauty that surrounds our bustling cities. Even after years of exploring these trails, I still find something new to appreciate with each visit. So grab your water bottle, lace up those hiking boots, and hit the trails! Southern California’s natural wonders are waiting for you, just a short drive away.
For trail updates and condition reports before heading out, I recommend checking AllTrails (www.alltrails.com) or following the official park social media accounts. Happy hiking, friends!
