7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Mount Baldy Loop Trail Through San Bernardino National Forest With Snow Views

Mount Baldy, reaching over 10,000 feet, presents a demanding but rewarding hike. This loop trail, clocking in at roughly ten miles, ascends through the San Bernardino National Forest, offering stunning panoramas, especially when capped with snow. The trail is no stroll in the park. Expect significant elevation gain and challenging footing. This demanding hike might be best suited for experienced hikers and those prepared for varying conditions. While a popular destination, ensure that parking permits are available and conditions are safe before embarking. The views, however, make the effort worthwhile. As alternatives to Angeles National Forest trails become necessary, Mount Baldy provides a robust test of skill and offers stunning scenery. However, be aware this is not a gentle amble.

Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is the apex of the San Gabriel Mountains. Rising to 10,064 feet, it's a magnet for Southern California hikers, especially those chasing snowy vistas. The Baldy Loop is a noteworthy climb—approximately 7 miles with a 2,500-foot elevation gain. While seemingly modest compared to other peaks, this ascent can be surprisingly demanding, particularly when winter throws snow and ice into the mix.

The trail cuts through a range of ecosystems, revealing a dramatic shift from chaparral to coniferous forests. This biodiversity is driven by altitude and weather, culminating in zones conducive to snow accumulation. During the winter months, this route transforms into a spot for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, a haven for winter sport enthusiasts not far from the sprawl of Los Angeles.

Typically, expect snow cover from late November to early April, though February often offers the most consistent snowpack and, arguably, the most dramatic views. Geologically, the area holds a history spanning 300 million years. The granite rock formations tell a tale of tectonic forces that sculpted this landscape.

Keep an eye out for wildlife like black bears and mule deer, creatures adapted to the colder conditions. The summit, on clear days, offers views extending to the Pacific Ocean—a striking juxtaposition of snow-laden peaks and the distant coastline. Snow conditions are highly variable. Some years bring drought and minimal snowfall, impacting trail conditions. The trailhead is conveniently located near Mount Baldy Village. A jumping-off point with basic supplies, it allows explorers to immerse themselves in natural beauty without straying too far from the city.

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1. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Mount Baldy Loop Trail Through San Bernardino National Forest With Snow Views
2. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Santa Monica Mountains Solstice Canyon Trail With Year Round Waterfall
3. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Crystal Cove State Park Back Country Wilderness With Pacific Ocean Views
4. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Chino Hills State Park Telegraph Canyon Trail Through Rolling Hills
5. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Peter's Canyon Regional Park East Ridge Trail With Wildlife Spotting
6. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Mount San Jacinto State Park Long Valley Nature Trail At 8500 Feet
7. 7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park Red Rock Canyon Trail With Sandstone Formations

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Santa Monica Mountains Solstice Canyon Trail With Year Round Waterfall

The Solstice Canyon Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains is a captivating hiking destination, celebrated for its year-round waterfall and accessible beauty. At roughly three miles roundtrip, it offers a moderate hike with a 669-foot elevation gain. The trail includes historical ruins, such as Malibu's oldest stone structure, all while enjoying shaded creekside views and diverse plant life. It’s a popular choice now that trail closures are impacting regular hiking spots in Los Angeles. A perennial water source is always welcome and means something to hikers in California.

As travelers look to stretch their dollars further, the focus on finding affordable destinations and maximizing travel rewards continues to grow. Budget airlines are expanding their routes, offering more options for cheap flights. Smart use of airline miles and hotel points can also significantly reduce travel costs. Many are also considering destinations closer to home due to both budgetary concerns and a desire to explore local attractions.


Solstice Canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains presents itself as another worthwhile alternative, given the Angeles National Forest trail disruptions. This particular location stands out for its perennial waterfall – a somewhat unusual feature in the Southern California landscape. It’s more than just a scenic backdrop; the consistent water flow, the product of sandstone and granite geological underpinnings, is indeed a curiosity.

The path is far from just water; it's a delve into a complex microclimate system. Here, you'll find that the canyon supports both coastal sage scrub and riparian habitats, creating a natural haven for diverse species of plants and animals. Over 600 species of plants call it home; not bad for a day trip so close to the city.

What adds intrigue is the historical layering. While many trails are simply about the hike, Solstice Canyon also offers historical artifacts like remains of the Roberts Ranch House from 1952, which a fire destroyed back in 1982. And speaking of easy access, I did hear that the trail is available year round without any permit requirements!

While trekking here, expect some company in the wildlife sector. The presence of species like coyotes, foxes, and possibly even a bobcat is what I hear.

In summary, it might be worth considering what Solstice Canyon has to offer given the situation we are facing currently in the travel industry.

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Crystal Cove State Park Back Country Wilderness With Pacific Ocean Views

Crystal Cove State Park presents an enticing option for hikers seeking views of the Pacific and varied terrain near Los Angeles. This park provides trails that cut through coastal areas and inland wilderness. The backcountry trails are not as crowded, allowing visitors to experience nature and observe ocean views. With diverse trail options, Crystal Cove serves as a destination for those looking for alternative hiking options now that Angeles National Forest trails are less available. As the focus on domestic destinations grows, this park remains a gem.

Crystal Cove State Park's backcountry presents a compelling alternative within Orange County's 2,400 acres, a unique coastal wilderness where marine and terrestrial ecosystems intertwine. I'm intrigued by the potential to spot diverse bird species – reportedly over 100 – making it a spot I'll add to my list for possible investigation.

The ocean views from the backcountry trails offer a glimpse into geological formations formed over millennia. It’s interesting to imagine the ancient marine terraces and consider how uplift and erosion shaped the landscape over vast periods.

Crystal Cove's diverse terrain, from bluffs to canyons and hills, likely contributes to the biodiversity. I am keen to see how these variety of habitats, each home to plants and animals, creates a varied terrain worth checking out

The marine protected area extending offshore is also an interesting element. These submerged kelp forests have the potential to not only contribute to vital ecosystem functions but carbon sequestration and provide habitat for diverse marine life, especially as so many kelp forrests are disappearing,

The distinct coastal sage scrub habitat’s contribution to carbon storage also presents interesting carbon offsetting research that would add weight to a travel itinerary.

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Chino Hills State Park Telegraph Canyon Trail Through Rolling Hills

Chino Hills State Park, home to the Telegraph Canyon Trail, emerges as another option as hikers explore paths beyond the Angeles National Forest. This 5.6-mile, moderately challenging trail provides a journey through rolling hills, marked by views of oaks and sycamores. Expect to spend a little over two hours on the path. While parking incurs a fee, those who walk in can avoid the charge, catering to cost-conscious explorers. Boasting over 60 miles of interconnected paths, the park appeals to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers seeking varied terrain. With easy access from major highways and multiple entry points to the Telegraph Canyon Trail, the location seems well set up for hiking near Los Angeles. The wide-open vistas offer perspectives of Yorba Linda and Orange County, making this park a notable consideration for locals and visitors.

Chino Hills State Park features the Telegraph Canyon Trail, which offers a different flavor of rolling hills than the Angeles National Forest trails. This 5.6-mile out-and-back path presents a moderate challenge, typically taking around two hours to complete. What's intriguing is that while parking incurs a fee, pedestrian access is free, a potential cost saver for budget-conscious travelers.

Spanning over 14,000 acres, Chino Hills State Park reveals an impressive landscape of grassy hills and valleys punctuated by oaks and sycamores. What I find interesting is its accessibility, being situated near State Routes 57, 71, 91, and 142, which renders it easily reachable from numerous locales in Southern California. You can access the Telegraph Canyon Trail from points like the Rimcrest Entrance, which also links to the South Ridge Trail.

As you hike, expect to encounter landscapes including grasslands, sagebrush, and expansive views of Yorba Linda and Orange County. With over 60 miles of trails, Chino Hills caters to both casual strollers and experienced hikers alike. The park sits neatly amongst Corona, Chino Hills, Yorba Linda, and Brea, which enhances its appeal for local exploration. Be aware that you'll likely navigate some small creek crossings and experience a mix of hard-packed and sandy trail surfaces along the Telegraph Canyon Trail.

I found in my research that the Telegraph Canyon Trail runs through areas with interesting geological features, showcasing the region's geologic history. With over 300 species of plants, thanks to varied elevations and microclimates, I think the trail is a significant area for biodiversity observation in Southern California. The trail follows paths once used by Native American tribes, providing some insight into historical land use and the cultural significance of the landscape. Chino Hills State Park serves as a wildlife corridor for animals, aiding diversity across fragmented habitats. Unique plant communities feature buckwheat and sagebrush, adapted to local conditions, demonstrating impressive resilience. Access to seasonal streams and ponds, crucial for wildlife, offer an insight into local hydrology and its impact on the park’s ecosystem. With around 1,000 feet of elevation gain, the trail presents diverse perspectives of the land illustrating impacts on climate and vegetation. After recent wildfires, the park offers some observations for ecological resilience and the regeneration of native plants. Remnants of ranches reveal the region's agricultural history and land use changes, and the convenient location near urban areas serves as an accessible escape for city dwellers.

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Peter's Canyon Regional Park East Ridge Trail With Wildlife Spotting

Peter's Canyon Regional Park and its East Ridge Trail are worth noting for those seeking alternatives. The 4.1-mile loop, a moderate hike near Tustin, California, promises both a decent workout and the chance to observe local wildlife. Hikers are rewarded with views of the Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir, in addition to the ecosystems along the Peters Canyon Creek Nature Trail, which features rare black willows and cottonwoods. Open throughout the year, the park has seen renewed vegetation following the 2017 Canyon 2 Fire, adding to the already vibrant landscape. The various well-maintained trails accommodate hikers of varying abilities.

Peter's Canyon Regional Park features the East Ridge Trail, which is a loop extending four miles near Tustin, known for its views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. This moderate trail takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. It’s suitable for different skill levels.

The trails at Peters Canyon were impacted by wildfires a while back, but have experienced regrowth. This trail presents panoramic views of the Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir. There are several hiking trails like the Lake View Trail and Peters Canyon Wash Trail, which explore various ecosystems like oak woodlands and chaparral. This park is open all year. The East Ridge View Trail offers a dog-friendly experience.

Of particular interest is the year-round creek. Unlike many areas in Southern California that face drought-related water scarcity, the continuous creek sustains a riparian habitat – a rare find. This supports amphibians, insects, and lush plant life, essential for the regional food web. The elevation change, reaching around 500 feet, forms microclimates, influencing both plant and animal distribution. Community-oriented educational programs enrich visitor engagement by exploring flora and fauna relationships.

This area serves as a wildlife corridor, enabling the transit of animals between fragmented environments. It’s crucial to genetic diversity among species, notably in areas undergoing urbanization. These diverse flowering plants support populations of essential pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting the reproduction of numerous plant varieties.

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Mount San Jacinto State Park Long Valley Nature Trail At 8500 Feet

Mount San Jacinto State Park, with its 14,000 acres, delivers a solid hiking experience, particularly via the Long Valley Nature Trail. At 8,500 feet, and accessible by the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, this one-mile loop showcases diverse landscapes from forests to alpine meadows. With the ongoing trail issues at Angeles National Forest, this locale provides hikers with alternatives. Over 70 miles of trails mean opportunity for both casual explorers and serious hikers to find their path. Whether it's San Jacinto Peak or the relative calm of Long Valley, the park is worth a look.


Mount San Jacinto State Park, home to the Long Valley Nature Trail, presents an intriguing alternative for hikers given closures in the Angeles National Forest. The trail, readily accessible from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, hovers around 8,500 feet, offering a taste of subalpine ecosystems. At about one mile, it is brief yet potentially interesting for those keen on quickly observing diverse ecological zones.

The park's higher altitude supports species like the whitebark pine. Moreover, there is also the potential to view geological features, and granite peaks.

The Long Valley Nature Trail offers opportunities to explore diverse plant life due to varied microclimates, created by the elevation changes.

7 Alternative Hiking Destinations Near Los Angeles Following Angeles National Forest Trail Closures - Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park Red Rock Canyon Trail With Sandstone Formations

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park features the Red Rock Canyon Trail, which is renowned for its striking sandstone formations. This trail offers a scenic hiking experience with diverse landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park itself includes various other trails and natural features, which contribute to its appeal as a hiking destination near Los Angeles.

Now that more people are seeking destinations near Los Angeles due to trail closures elsewhere, a new question has emerged. What new options near Los Angeles could there be that include trails in local parks and wilderness areas that offer similar natural beauty and hiking experiences? Some notable alternatives might include trails in nearby state parks and protected areas, providing opportunities for exploration.

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, located in Lake Forest, California, features the popular Red Rock Canyon Trail, known for its striking sandstone formations and scenic landscapes reminiscent of Arizona's red rock vistas. This gently climbing trail offers hikers a unique experience, winding through a captivating canyon while showcasing the park's rich geological heritage. The area is also teeming with wildlife and historical remnants from past cattle ranching, adding layers of intrigue to the natural beauty. Visitors should be mindful of trail conditions, particularly after rain, as certain sections can become challenging. With a modest parking fee and limited spots, arriving early is advisable for those looking to explore this outdoor destination.

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park is home to the Red Rock Canyon Trail, known for its remarkable sandstone formations. The trail offers a distinct hiking experience with diverse terrain. It has become a popular destination, especially as hikers look for trails to visit, now that access to parts of the Angeles National Forest has been impacted.

The Red Rock Canyon Trail stands out for its striking sandstone formations. Formed over millennia through erosion and sedimentation, they present an ongoing geological study. The park, comprising over 2,500 acres, also contains coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems.

Concerning wildlife, I learned it provides a home to the California scrub jay and the western fence lizard. These critters are crucial as seed dispersers and insectivores. The region's unique hydrology supports seasonal streams. These waterways, despite existing in a semi-arid setting, foster biodiversity.

The sandstone formations offer a glimpse into the region's geological past. The sediment layers document ancient environments and climate conditions from long ago.

Moreover, the Red Rock Canyon Trail showcases nature’s response to wildfires. It seems to reveal a landscape where native plants are returning and wildlife is adapting. I am planning to research which plants are able to return so quickly.

I also found that the sandstone’s red hue is from iron oxide. It impacts the weathering patterns. A unique study for mineralogy and soil science.

It looks like the trail is designed for various hiking skills. It appears that its accessibility makes it an area to encounter natural beauty with minimal prep.

The area near Whiting Ranch has an extensive cultural history. Evidence suggests Native American inhabitation from thousands of years back. This makes the trail's popularity a good one, and it calls for continued studies on visitor impact and park maintenance, turning it into a subject for park management practices with urban expansion.