Looking for the best hiking trails in Southern California? Look no further! From easy hikes to strenuous treks, here are the best hiking trails in Southern California.
One fact that can’t be argued: Southern California’s hiking trails are some of the best in the entire United States.
Southern California hosts a wide range of climates. From rugged, dry deserts to lush green oases to Pacific Ocean views, California has it all. And within this array of landscapes, there are seemingly endless hikes to choose from.
It’s taken years, but nowadays I can say I’ve hiked many of the hiking trails in SoCal, and I have a list of favorites. If you’re trying to choose your next trail, you will likely find it below.
These are some of the most breathtaking hikes I’ve found, and they cross rivers and deserts and mountains. No matter what type of hike you are looking for, it is here.
Here are the absolute best of the best hiking trails in Southern California. Let’s dive in!
5 Day Hike Essentials
✅ A wide brim hat for shade.
✅ Rugged trekking sandals for all terrain.
✅ A hands free hydration backpack.
✅ My 52 Hikes in Southern California guide.
23 Hiking Trails in SoCal You Must Try!
This list of the best 23 hiking trails in SoCal will tackle options from the mountains, to the coast, to the desert, and more.
While SoCal is best known for its beaches, I am personally very partial to the deserts of Southern California.
Here, I’m going to cover trails in every type of climate so that you can chose which one is best for you. We’ll tackle easy hikes, moderate hikes, and difficult hikes, too.
Let’s get to it!
Easy Hiking Trails in SoCal
If you are looking for easy yet scenic hikes in SoCal, these are my top picks! These eight easy hikes are some of the best hiking trails in Southern California.
1. Andreas Canyon Trail – Palm Springs
Length: 1 Mile / Type: Loop / Elevation: 177 Feet
One of my all time favorite hiking trails in Southern California is easily the Andreas Canyon Trail. This hike features the best of the desert – rugged landscapes, tall rocky crevices, and even a lush green oasis.
This easy one mile loop winds hikers past the oasis and up onto the rocky cliffs. Once up top, you’ll get a great view of the surrounding desert.
The California Fan Palm is definitely the highlight of the hike. The trickling stream is surrounded by a thick cluster of shaggy palm trees, bringing welcome shade.
Pro Tip: Consider purchasing a pair of rugged trekking sandals for Southern California desert hikes. These ones are my favorite because they have a closed toe to protect your feet, but open sides so your feet can breathe. The best part? They’re water-friendly, so you can hike right through the stream. GET YOUR HIKING SANDALS HERE!
Be sure to watch where you step. Last time I was here I saw a 5-foot long rattlesnake under the palm grove.
Andreas Canyon is located within the Indian Canyons resort in Palm Springs, which does require a $12 per person entry fee. The fee is well worth it! Don’t miss this one!
2. Palm Canyon Trail – Palm Springs
Length: 2 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 209 Feet
The Palm Canyon Trail in Palm Springs is also found within Indian Canyons. This hike is incredibly scenic, with amazing views of the palm-filled valley below.
With a variety of native plants and wildlife, this hike will take you through some of the most beautiful and diverse terrain in Southern California. And, in the summer, visitors can splash around in the winding stream along the trail.
Since this is an out and back hike, you can walk for as long as you wish before turning back. And, fun fact, you’ll find a few bent palm trees arcing in a rainbow shape toward the beginning.
Learn more about visiting Indian Canyons here.
3. Arch Rock Trail – Joshua Tree National Park
Length: 1.2 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 88 Feet
This 1.2-mile out-and-back trail near Twentynine Palms, California is considered an easy route, taking an average of only 26 minutes to complete.
Arch Rock, the formation that is the namesake of this trail, is an awesome natural feature and great to see at sunrise. Even if you are only spending one day in Joshua Tree, you need to add this short hike to the itinerary.
Pro Tip: If you want to hike at sunrise, invest in a high quality headlamp. This has saved me more than once while camping and hiking! GET YOU HEADLAMP HERE!
This is a popular area for hiking and walking, so expect to run into other people. The trail is open year-round and note that it is not dog-friendly. For anyone who wants to get an extra early start, you can find your camping options here.
4. Red Cliffs Trail – Red Rock Canyon State Park
Length: 1 Mile / Type: Loop / Elevation: 101 Feet
Red Cliffs Trail is an easy 1 mile loop located within Red Rock Canyon State Park. This hike features vibrant red sandstone cliffs and is perfect for a quiet, scenic outing.
Red Rock Canyon State Park never seems to be crowded, so this is the place to go for solitude. The views of the desert landscape will take your breath away.
Be sure to bring plenty of water, as there is very little shade on this hike. It is best to hike early in the morning or in the colder months due to the extreme desert heat.
Pro Tip: If you are new to hiking in the desert, be sure to read over my Desert Hiking Essentials post for a full list of gear. And, check out my Desert Safety post for signs of heat stroke, dehydration, and more.
The scenery in Red Rock Canyon is what really makes this one of the best hiking trails in SoCal. The tall red rocks streaked with white stripes are incredible!
5. Congress Trail – Sequoia National Park
Length: 2.9 Miles / Type: Loop / Elevation: 462 Feet
The Congress Trail was a nice surprise on my last visit to Sequoia National Park.
The entire park is extremely beautiful, but Congress Trail is definitely my favorite hike in the area.
Why? Because nowhere else did I see such a high concentration of unbelievably tall sequoias! They stand in proud clusters here along the short but worthwhile trail.
Sequoia National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful place, with its soaring redwoods and lush green forests. Whether you’re going on a day hike or spending several days exploring the park, you’ve got to hike the Congress Trail.
You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do in Sequoia National Park
6. Mobius Arch Loop Trail – Alabama Hills
Length: 1.1 Miles / Type: Loop / Elevation: 85 Feet
Wouldn’t you know it, there is another Arch Rock on this best hikes in SoCal list – and it is found inside the Alabama Hills National Recreation Area.
Alabama Hills is a stretch of BLM land full of wild rock formations at the base of Mount Whitney. It is a popular destination for hiking, photography, camping, rock climbing, and more
The Alabama Hills provide ample opportunities for adventure. Its varied terrain includes everything from gentle rolling hills to unique rock formations, like Arch Rock.
This easy loop takes you on a winding loop through the landscape, ultimately approaching the arched shape. If you stand to one side of the rock, you can frame Mount Whitney in the background.
7. Malibu Bluffs Trail – Malibu
Length: 1.6 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 154 Feet
This is the perfect short hike if you are looking for a relaxing day trip to Malibu.
Hike among tall grass and rugged dirt paths that give way to some great ocean views. This trail is a great little walking path for when you just want to get outside and get moving.
It is an easy 1.6 mile out and back trail that is perfect for all levels. Note that in the springtime, particularly after rains, the trail can be a bit overgrown.
8. Little Hebe Trail – Death Valley National Park
Length: 1.2 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 88 Feet
I can’t believe how long it took me to discover this trail! After visiting Death Valley National Park countless times, I finally found this hidden gem of a hike.
Though it’s a bit of a drive to reach the trailhead, this hike is more than worth it. It is likely one of the coolest hiking trails in Southern California’s national park system.
Pro Tip: There is no shade on this trail whatsoever, and Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth. Absolutely bring tons of water, ideally in a hydration pack. I am obsessed with mine and always use it on desert hikes. GET YOUR HYDRATION PACK HERE!
The crater is awe-inspiring. You can hike all the way around the rim, which is about 1.8 miles around. If you have the chance, definitely go down into the crater for some incredible 360 degree views of the strange formation.
Definitely don’t miss Ubehebe! It is such a unique trail in SoCal’s desert.
👇 Wanna snag my 52 Hikes in Southern California e-book? Tap below! 👇
Moderate Hiking Trails in Southern California
Want a hike with a bit more heft? I’ve got you covered!
Let’s dive into the best moderate hiking trails in SoCal below. Once again we’ll have desert views, beach views, mountain views, and more. Basically, more of Southern California nature at its best!
9. The Slot – Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Length: 2.3 Miles / Type: Loop / Elevation: 301 Feet
If you are new here, this may come as a shock – I prefer deserts to beaches 100% of the time. There, I said it.
One of the best desert parks in California is Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and one of the best hiking trails in Anza Borrego is The Slot.
This 2.3 mile loop hike is a unique trail tucked deep into the earth between sheer rock walls. A slot canyon! Right here in Southern California.
Though much of the trail is pretty easy, the Slot hike is rated as moderate because there are some sections where you may need to scramble over some rocks.
The trail gets very narrow in some areas – so narrow that a large backpack won’t even fit, so definitely pack light.
This trail can get busy later in the day, but I’ve managed to avoid crowds (and heat!) by starting my hike early. Easily one of the best hikes in Southern California, this is a trail you cannot miss!
10. Borrego Palm Canyon Trail – Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Length: 2.9 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 456 Feet
The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail is a definite must-do. Also located within Anza Borrego Desert State Park, this 2.9 moderate trail is very scenic!
Borrego Palm Canyon Trail winds hikers up a rugged mountain and deep into the picturesque park. Keep going and you will see dozens of tall palm trees deep at the bottom of the canyon, growing along a trickling stream.
Pro Tip: This is another hike where you will appreciate these rugged hiking sandals. They have a closed toe to protect your feet from sharp rocks, but open breathable sides to cool your feet from the desert heat. I love mine! GET YOUR HIKING SANDALS HERE!
You can climb down to the bottom of the canyon and walk among the trees. Or, climb higher for a birds eye view.
This gorgeous hike is one of my favorite desert hikes in SoCal and once you hike it, you will see why. If you are lucky, you may even see the bighorn sheep climbing among the rocks.
11. Gaviota Wind Caves – Santa Barbara County
Length: 2.5 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 600 Feet
Trading in the desert for the more comfortable Mediterranean climate, this next hike will take place in Santa Barbara County, on the coast.
Beginning on flat earth at the base of the mountains, hikers will be surrounded by brush and, at least in the spring, colorful wildflowers.
This hike is a 2.5 mile moderate trek up a mountain. Expect small rock scrambles, steep inclines, and wild rock formations. It all culminates at the strange yet naturally formed Gaviota Wind Caves.
These towering sandstone caves were formed by strong winds, creating deep and twisting passageways. Step inside for some well-deserved shade.
The reward for tackling this hike is the panoramic view of the blue Pacific Ocean in the distance and the mountain peaks below. It is well worth spending a morning tackling this trail.
Pro Tip: If you want to make a day of it, check out my One Day in Santa Barbara, guide. You’ll find all the best sights and places to eat in just one day in the coastal town.
12. Solstice Canyon – Malibu
Length: 3 Miles / Type: Loop / Elevation: 669 Feet
The Solstice Canyon Trail in Malibu is a popular hiking destination due to its ease of access and scenic views.
The hiking trail is located in the Santa Monica Mountains and stretches for about miles over the hills. Hikers will encounter a variety of terrain including meadows, canyons, and streams.
The highlight of the hike is the Solstice Creek’s origin and a 30-foot waterfall known as the Tropical Terrace. The waterfall is especially impressive after the winter rains.
There is limited parking at the trailhead, so arrive early. The Solstice Canyon Trail is a great opportunity for hikers to explore the natural beauty during their day trip to Malibu.
13. M*A*S*H Hike – Malibu
Length: 4.7 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 200 Feet
Malibu Creek State Park is a rugged and mountainous area that sits on the border of Malibu and Calabasas. The MASH hike is hidden in these well-trodden hills and is certainly worth the trip (even if you’ve never seen the show!)
Just under 5 miles, this trail takes you across rolling hills, shaded pathways, and rocky trails. Midway through, you will reach the filming location for MASH – complete with paraphernalia from the set that has been left behind since the 1980’s.
A placard points out several locations of significance and rusted old trucks remain on site. There are several picnic tables here, making it a great location for a packed lunch before turning back.
Parking is free from Mulholland Highway and the start of the trail is inconspicuous – look for a break in the wooden fence to mark the path. This is one of my favorite things to do when spending a day in Malibu!
14. Kelso Dunes – Mojave National Preserve
Length: 2.7 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 479 Feet
Located in an underrated patch of land called the Mojave National Preserve, the Kelso Dunes are spectacular. This section of the Mojave Desert is wild, remote, and rugged.
The beginning of this 2.7 mile trail leads hikers through desert scrub and desert sage, peeking out of the sand folds. The colors are stunning, turning more golden as the sun gets higher in the sky.
Pro Tip: Definitely wear a wide brim hat on this hike. The trail requires a lot of exertion and there is no shade whatsoever. I love mine! GET YOUR WIDE BRIM HAT HERE!
Once hikers get farther into the dunes, the scrub thins out and you find yourself slipping and sliding on sand.
If you’ve ever hiked or ran on sand before, you know that it can be difficult terrain to cross. Bring loads of water and start your hike early.
Despite the challenge, walking deep into the dunes will give you solitude and peace.
15. Hollywood Sign Hike – Los Angeles
Length: 6 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 1171 Feet
This list of the best hikes in Southern California would not be complete if I didn’t mention the famous hike to the Hollywood sign.
While there are several routes to choose from, the one we are tackling here is via Canyon Trail. It takes you up behind the famous sign.
Start on the Brush Canyon Trail, two blocks to the east of Beachwood Drive off of Griffith Observatory. The trailhead has a parking lot, sidewalks, and trash cans for use.
Pro Tip: Note that parking is limited and fills up quickly at Griffith Park. Be sure to start this hike early to ensure that you get a spot!
This trail is rated moderate due to its length as well as its grade. There is a grade above 12% steepness, which can be fairly intense, especially in the sun.
This is a great hike with excellent views of the Hollywood sign. At the top is a 360 degree view of Los Angeles below. The is one of the most iconic hiking trails in Southern California without a doubt.
16. Murray Canyon Trail – Palm Springs
Length: .73 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 538 Feet
Murray Canyon Trail is found in Palm Springs’ Indian Canyons scenic land. If you are spending a day in Palm Springs, you need to add this hike to your list.
Definitely an oasis in Palm Springs, this hike is an adventure. Particularly in winter and spring months, after the rains, expect to cross many streams along the trail.
Pro Tip: Amphibious trekking shoes like these that can hike through land and water are highly recommended! Mine have so far crossed six continents with me and still are going strong. GET YOUR TREKKING SANDALS HERE!
Thankfully, there is a decent amount of shade on this trail once you get past the first desert section of the trail. You should also consider a wide brim hat and sunscreen.
17. Los Liones Trail – Topanga State Park
Length: 4.4 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 1190 Feet
Los Liones Trail is a tough uphill trek that rewards you with sweeping ocean views.
This popular trail starts climbing up the dirt mountains and through small patches of forest. Higher up, you are on the tip of the mountain as you climb higher and higher, getting a solid uphill workout as you go.
There are two places to stop and enjoy the view on benches along the trail. And, once you make it up, you are rewarded with a downhill descent.
18. Sandstone Peak – Lake Sherwood
Length: 3 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 997 Feet
I discovered Sandstone Peak years ago, and it is one of the many hikes I returned back to again and again.
The reason being, this hike seemingly transports you to the lush green east coast. The trail winds through a true forest, with moss and trees and dew! It’s beautiful.
Be aware, there are some wide open areas on the trail so you will have to battle some heat.
This trail is well marked and easy to follow. From the rocky viewpoint, you will have an epic panorama of the hills below.
For anyone who wants a true escape from LA, this hike is for you!
5 Day Hike Essentials
✅ A wide brim hat for shade.
✅ Rugged trekking sandals for all terrain.
✅ A hands free hydration backpack.
✅ My 52 Hikes in Southern California guide.
Difficult Hikes in Southern California
When you want a strenuous workout outdoors, a difficult hike is the way to go.
These last five hikes are five of the best difficult hiking trails in SoCal.
19. Lost Palms Oasis Trail – Joshua Tree National Park
Length: 7.4 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 1046 Feet
I’ve spent a lot of time in Joshua Tree National Park over the years and honestly, it was difficult to narrow down which of the Joshua Tree hiking trails deserved to be on this list.
In the end I had to include Lost Palms Oasis, not just because of the scenic reward at the oasis, but also my very vivid memory of the first time I hiked this trail.
It was dead hot summer, and honestly my friend and I started this hike just a bit too late in the morning. The heat was intense and the hike is long.
Pro Tip: You need a wide brim hat, loads of sunscreen, a good pair of sunglasses, and a Camelback hydration backpack. These items will literally change your hike for the better.
If you plan ahead, this fantastic hike leads to a lush oasis. If you go in spring, you may even see the colorful blooms that make this hike pure magic.
If this trail was in any other climate, it might be considered moderate. But because of the harsh desert terrain, this one is hard. It is well worth the effort, though!
20. Half Dome Trail – Yosemite National Park
Length: 16.5 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 5305 Feet
There is good reason for Yosemite being not only one of the best national parks in Southern California, but also the most visited national park in all of California.
This park is stunning!
The famous Half Dome Trail gets a well-deserved spot here, due to the tough trek and incredible views. Half Dome is not for the feint of heart.
I do have a little cheat for anyone who wants to do this hike but shorten it just a hair to be doable in one day. On your return, take the Mist Trail back down. Beware that the downhill is sometimes tougher than up!
Pro Tip: You will run into lots of insects and bugs in Yosemite. I highly recommend stashing these packable bug wipes in your day pack.
You will see two raging waterfalls, tall trees, and the telltale rock formations that Yosemite is known for.
Note that permits are required for Half Dome. Find up to date information here.
21. Bridge to Nowhere Trail – Sheep Mountain Wilderness
Length: 9.5 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 1236 Feet
This rocky trail is fantastic and one of the most unique hikes in Southern California!
Leading to an epic bridge that people go bungee jumping from, start very early and give yourself all day for this one.
The parking lot fills up, so arrive early or you will have to park even farther, adding to your hike. Note that you will need to purchase a parking permit too avoid a ticket on your car. Here is the list of where you can purchase the pass.
Pro Tip: Wear good hiking sandals that can stand getting wet. The trail is rocky and goes through the water multiple times. Make sure you pack sunscreen and a hydration backpack to avoid dehydration. It gets hot once the sun is over the mountains!
22. Murray Hill Loop – Palm Springs
Length: 8.1 Miles / Type: Loop / Elevation: 2529 Feet
Back into the desert near Palm Springs, you will find the Murray Hill Loop. It is technically a lollipop trail (a straight trail connecting to a loop) and its a good one!
This is an excellent hike with well maintained and easy to follow trails. It is quite challenging for most hikers, especially in the heat, unless you’re extremely fit and used to hiking in the desert.
Leave as early as possible. I recommend taking the trail clockwise. This way you tackle the more vertical portion in the early morning, before the sun is burning.
I wouldn’t recommend this hike if you are just in the area for a day, but if you make a weekend in Palm Springs out of it, it is well worth it!
23. Mount Baldy Trail – Angeles National Forest
Length: 13 Miles / Type: Out & Back / Elevation: 4294 Feet
Last but not least on this list of the best hikes in Southern California is a SoCal staple: Mount Baldy!
This 13 mile out-and-back trail is a classic (and a challenging route, at that!) It takes most hikers an average of 8 hours to complete this route – the Mount Baldy Trail via Devil’s Backbone Trail.
Dtart early, this is a long trek!
This popular trek brings in backpackers, campers, and hikers, so you’re bound to come across other adventurers during your hike. The best times to hike this trail is from June through October.
Final Thoughts: The Best Hiking Trails in Southern California
And that wraps up this list of the very best hiking trails in Southern California.
We covered everything from the best desert hikes to stunning coastal hikes to lush hikes in the mountains. Basically, SoCal has it all.
Let me know below – which one of these trails are you going to tackle next?!
Pin Me for Later!
Leave a Reply