The 19 Best Hikes in Southern California (Ranked from Easiest to Hardest)

Southern California is a hiker’s paradise, offering diverse landscapes and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking to explore the great outdoors, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this region. Check out the 19 best hikes in Southern California, each with its own unique charm and standout features. Grab your hiking boots and let’s hit the trail!

1. Runyon Canyon Park (Los Angeles)

We’ll start with the easy hike up Runyon Canyon Park. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign. This trail is popular with both beginners and fitness enthusiasts. As you ascend the well-maintained paths, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging workout, head to Runyon Canyon Park.

Duration: 1-2 hours

2. Griffith Observatory Hike (Los Angeles)

The Griffith Observatory Hike is a moderate trail that rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Griffith Observatory. Moreover, as you make your way up the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. The hike provides a perfect blend of nature and cityscape.

Duration: 2-3 hours

3. Solstice Canyon Loop Trail (Malibu)

Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this easy hike takes you through a picturesque canyon, passing by a waterfall and the ruins of an old stone house. As you meander along the well-marked Solstice Canyon Loop Trail, you’ll be surrounded by oak and sycamore trees. The highlight of the hike is the Solstice Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing break and soak in the natural beauty. The trail also leads to the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House, providing a glimpse into the area’s history.

Duration: 1-2 hours

4. Escondido Falls Trail (Malibu)

Escondido Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Malibu, California. It is known for its beautiful scenery. The highlight of the trail is Escondido Falls, a three-tiered waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff. Though moderately difficult, Escondido Falls Trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.

Duration: 2-3 hours

5. Sandstone Peak Loop Trail (Santa Monica Mountains)

For a more challenging hike, Sandstone Peak Loop Trail is a must-visit. It takes you to the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for native plants such as chaparral yucca and California sagebrush, as well as wildlife like deer, coyotes, and a variety of bird species. Moreover, on a clear day, you may even be able to spot the Channel Islands in the distance.

Duration: 3-4 hours

6. Bridge to Nowhere (San Gabriel Mountains)

Bridge to Nowhere is a unique and moderately challenging hike that leads you to an abandoned bridge in the San Gabriel Mountains. As a result, as you make your way through the rugged terrain, you’ll be surrounded by stunning canyon views and the soothing sound of the rushing river. Beyond the bridge, the trail continues. You can choose to extend your hike and discover more hidden gems in the area, such as secluded swimming holes or hidden waterfalls.

Duration: 5-6 hours

7. Potato Chip Rock via Mount Woodson Trail (San Diego)

Known for its iconic photo spot, this moderately difficult hike takes you to Potato Chip Rock in San Diego, a thin rock formation that appears to hang in mid-air. As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Poway. The unique shape of Potato Chip Rock provides the perfect opportunity for an Instagram-worthy photo but be prepared to wait for your turn to pose.

Duration: 3-4 hours

8. Three Sisters Falls Trail (San Diego)

Three Sisters Falls Trail is a strenuous hike that rewards hikers with three beautiful cascading waterfalls. The trail takes you through rocky terrain, lush foliage, and stunning views of the Cleveland National Forest. Furthermore, be prepared for steep inclines, challenging sections, and the possibility of slippery conditions near the falls.

Duration: 4-5 hours

9. Cucamonga Peak Trail (San Bernardino Mountains)

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Cucamonga Peak Trail is the answer. The trail starts in the scenic Cucamonga Wilderness and gradually ascends through a variety of terrains, including lush forests and rocky slopes. Therefore, the trail is steep and requires high levels of fitness and endurance.

Duration: 6-8 hours

10. Mount San Jacinto via Marion Mountain Trail (San Jacinto Mountains)

The Marion Mountain Trail starts at an elevation of around 6,000 feet and steadily climbs over 4,000 feet to the summit. Moreover, this difficult hike takes you to the summit of Mount San Jacinto, offering breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. The trail is steep and rocky, requiring good physical fitness and endurance.

Duration: 8-10 hours

11. Mount Baldy via Devil’s Backbone Trail (San Gabriel Mountains)

12. Gorgonio Mountain via Vivian Creek Trail (San Bernardino Mountains)

As the highest peak in Southern California, San Gorgonio Mountain offers a strenuous and rewarding hike via the Vivian Trail. From the top, you can see the Mojave Desert and even glimpses of the San Jacinto and San Bernardino Mountains. Therefore, the San Gorgonio Mountain via Vivian Creek Trail is the perfect choice if you’re up for a strenuous adventure and stunning alpine scenery.

Duration: 8-10 hours

13. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (Borrego Springs)

Boasting of a wide range of hiking trails, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers easy nature walks and challenging treks. Explore the desert landscape, slot canyons, and unique flora and fauna. Notably, the park is known for its stunning wildflower displays. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers a captivating hiking experience that showcases the beauty of the desert.

Duration: Varies

14. San Bernardino Peak Trail (San Bernardino Mountains)

San Bernardino Peak Trail is a strenuous hike that takes you to the summit of San Bernardino Peak, offering panoramic views of the Inland Empire and the surrounding wilderness. As a result, the diverse terrain offers a glimpse into nature’s best, from pine forests to open meadows and rocky outcrops.

Duration: 8-10 hours

15. Icehouse Canyon to Cucamonga Peak (San Gabriel Mountains)

This challenging hike takes you through Icehouse Canyon and rewards you with stunning views from the summit of Cucamonga Peak. As you ascend, the forest-like surroundings thin out and become more rugged and arid. Above all, this hike takes you through a fascinating transformation of ecosystems, from the greenery of the lower elevations to the high-altitude desert-like conditions near the summit.

Duration: 7-9 hours

16. Pacific Crest Trail Section A (San Bernardino Mountains)

For experienced hikers seeking a long-distance adventure, Section A of the Pacific Crest Trail is a great choice. It offers breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the Mojave Desert. Moreover, this challenging trek takes you through diverse terrain, from alpine forests to arid desert landscapes.

Duration: Varies

17. Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree)

Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Explore the unique desert landscape and marvel at the iconic Joshua Trees. Above all, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails, towering rock formations, and panoramic viewpoints.

Duration: Varies

18. Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument (Palm Springs)

This is a great hike in Southern California! Vast wilderness area offers numerous hiking trails, including the challenging Cactus Spring Trail and the moderate Art Smith Trail. Additionally, enjoy stunning views of the Coachella Valley as you traverse through rugged canyons and towering mountain peaks. The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is a paradise for hikers, with trails that cater to different skill levels and provide opportunities to spot wildlife and experience the tranquility of the desert landscape. All things considered, the national monument offers a diverse range of hiking experiences.

Duration: Varies

19. Skyline Trail to Cactus to Clouds (San Jacinto Mountains)

Last on our list of 19 best hikes in Southern California is Skyline Trail to Cactus to Clouds. Considered one of the toughest hikes, it takes you from the desert floor and ascends over 10,000 feet to the summit of Mount San Jacinto. Therefore, the trail is known for its steep inclines, rocky terrain, and extreme elevation gain. It requires advanced hiking skills and preparation.

Duration: 12-14 hours