Hiking Trails in Orange County: For Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced Hikers
By Ben Borhani
January 8, 2016
Those of us living in OC are fortunate enough to have many different attractions and activities to take part in, and right in the comfort of their nearby neighborhoods. With oceans to the West, and mountain ranges to the East, it makes for a stunning combination of beautiful sights and outdoor activities. One favorite hobby of locals, ourselves included, is taking on the array of hiking trails in Orange County. Whether you are the occasional hiker, or if you prefer more challenging courses, the OC area is bound to have the right one for you.
Hiking Trails in Orange County: For Beginners
Peter’s Canyon
Nestled in the City of Orange, Peter’s Canyon has been a popular and vibrant trail for all hikers, both beginners and advanced. With the loop totaling about 2.6 miles, the terrain is filled with natural accents such as the surrounding greenery, flocks of active birds, and many creeks & ponds. A quick historical fact about the Canyon includes the water reservoirs that were developed in 1940, assisting in the water needs of Orange County residents and businesses.
Crystal Cove – Green Route
Another one of our favorite hiking trails in Orange County is held within the Crystal Cove State Park, and has a variety of trails to suit anyone’s needs. For beginners, however, we suggest the Green Route because it allows you to experience the beauty of the surroundings, without having to be a seasoned hiker to do so. A 3-mile loop that reaches an altitude of about 500 feet, hikers experience breathtaking views of the oceans and forests.
Hiking Trails in Orange County: For Intermediate Hikers
Colinas Bluff Trail
Located in between Laguna Niguel, and the city of San Juan Capistrano, Colinas Bluff is a beautiful intermediate trail. Having the option to turn around at whatever halfway mark you feel right, the trail can total up to 6.7 miles and take roughly 2 hours (depending on your pace). Reaching a peak altitude of just under 650 feet, the trail treats hikers to panoramic views of the ocean and Catalina Island.
Crystal Cove – Red Route
Even though we used it in the beginner section, we feel that the trails of Crystal Cove are so stunning, that one feature would simply not be enough. The Red route, however, is a bit more challenging than the previous ones. As hikers trek this 5.5 mile course that reaches a height of over 800 feet, they’ll soon see how the views and surroundings are worth the more difficult trail.
Hiking Trails in Orange County: For Advanced Hikers
Whiting Ranch
More adventurous hikers that want to be faced with a challenge should look into the Whiting Ranch trails, specifically Dreaded Hill and Red Rock Canyon. Located in the Santiago Canyon and Foothill Ranch area in the city of Lake Forest, the 10 mile route will give any experienced hiker a run for their money!
Bell View Regional Trail
With the highest elevation of the previously mentioned routes, the Bell View Trail takes hikers up a 1,000 foot climb, spread along a path that is about 10 miles in length. Located in Rancho Santa Margarita, the trail provides a challenging workout, but one that’s rewarded with sights of open lands and endless trees.