Nature Hikes for LA & OC Families

Gina I.:  With approximately 4,500 acres of wilderness and 30 miles of trails, your family is sure to find a fun or challenging trek at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park! The park is home to rare and endangered plants and animals, as well as a staging area, visitor's center, and restroom facilities.

Gina I.:  Crystal Cove State Park is home to 18 miles of hiking trails that take you through 2,400 acres of native wilderness. The lower trails take you through the woodlands, while the upper trails offer stunning views of the mountains. Trails range from approx. 3-9 miles. Families with inexperienced hikers should stick to the Easy Out and Back Moro Canyon trail, for the least amount of elevation change.

Gina I.:  Located in the “Front Country” of the San Gabriel Mountains, Big Santa Anita Canyon is home to several great hiking trails. Enjoy an easy 3 miles on the Upper Winter Creek Trail, or check out the beautiful waterfall on the Sturtevant Falls Trail. You can also pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at the Chantry Flat picnic area.

Gina I.:  Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a 190-acre preserve and home to an array of native plants and wildlife. Enjoy a variety of hiking trails, or join the Family Nature Walk that takes place every Saturday morning from 9-11am (weather permitting.) This walk is designed for families and young children, making it the perfect intro to hiking.

Gina I.:  Hiking and education go hand in hand at White Point Preserve & Nature Center! This restored coastal sage scrub habitat overlooks Catalina Island and offers beautiful hiking and handicap accessible trails. After your family hike, head to the Nature Education Center to learn about the local wildlife and habitat.

Gina I.:  If your family is new to hiking, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is a great place to start! The park features a variety of trails ranging from the 0.8 mile Bowl Loop to the 2.2 mile Burke Roche Trail. With picnic tables, barbecue pits, a fishing lake, and recreation area you can make a day of it!

Gina I.:  Conveniently located between the San Fernando Valley and Beverly Hills, Franklin Canyon Park offers over 5 miles of trails. Enjoy a quick 1 mile family hike on the Berman Trail or a more challenging trek on the 2.3 mile Hastain Trail. This 605 acre park features a variety of topography, including: grasslands, woodlands, and a beautiful lake; so you're sure to find your favorite spot!

Kristy Pepping:  There is a ton to do in Will Rogers State Park. But a great bonding time is taking the hiking trail to and from Temescal Gateway Park. This is about a two-mile loop and is fairly easy even for younger kids. The other options are either the Sunset or Viewpoint Trails that both offer a stroll through the canyon. On the other hand, if you are with an older child, you can tackle the Backbone Trail National Trail into the Santa Monica Mountains, which can take you all the way to Point Mugu.

Gina I.:  Looking for easy to moderate trails and a well-trafficked locale? Look no further than Temescal Gateway Park! As one of the most popular parks in the Santa Monica Mountains, Temescal Gateway Park offers stunning ridge top views and acres of lush, treed canyons. The comfortable grassy areas, picnic tables, and restrooms, make it the perfect spot for families who want to picnic after their hike.

Gina I.:  Located entirely with the the L.A. city limits, Topanga State Park is the "world’s largest wildland within the boundaries of a major city." Bring the kids to check out a variety of geologic formations, a waterfall, stunning ocean views, and over 36 miles of trails. Whether you take the Musch Trail, Backbone Trail, or another trek, you're sure to see some gorgeous sights. So, be sure to bring your camera for great photo ops.

Gina I.:  Whether your kids are novice hikers or expert outdoorsmen, you'll find great trail options at Solstice Canyon. The park entrance can be found at the corner of Corral Canyon Road and Solstice Canyon Road. Families enjoy trekking to the waterfall and checking out the historical stone hunting cabin, Keller House. Keep your eyes peeled for acorn woodpeckers, lizards, hawks, and other wildlife. Best of all, you can even bring the family dog!