Skip the Crowds: Explore Southern California’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

Ah, the great outdoors. It grounds us, refreshes us, and gives us a break from the hectic, tech-driven grind. But alas, when everyone has the same idea, and the spot you’ve chosen to explore is as busy as your morning commute, it may not have quite the same effect. That’s when it’s good to know a few quieter, off-the-beaten-path destinations — like these tranquil parks and trails in Southern California — where you can ditch the clamoring throngs and find your zen.

1. Prime Desert Woodland Preserve Walking Trail, Lancaster

With over three miles of flat, accessible trails and boardwalks, Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is a perfect escape that anyone can enjoy. This scenic preserve in the high desert offers visitors not only a reprieve from the city and the crowds, but an opportunity to enjoy California’s uniquely beautiful desert trees, plants, and wildlife — from Joshua Trees to jackrabbits. There is also a cool exhibition by the Lancaster Museum of Art and History where you can learn more about the area's flora and fauna, history, and native peoples. 

2. Santa Barbara Shores Park, Goleta

If you (like me) prefer to be near the ocean, head to Santa Barbara Shores Park. Wander through a eucalyptus grove, explore the trails that meander across a wide bluff over the shore, or make your way down a short but steep path to the beach to look for shells or dip your toes in the water. During fall and winter, be sure to check out the Butterfly Grove where migrating Monarch butterflies populate the eucalyptus trees.  

3. Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park, Simi Valley

A rugged but beautiful space sitting in the pass between two suburban communities, Santa Susana Pass State Park is a little-known park that has much to offer. There are several cool trails through the park. You can follow an old stagecoach road (now a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument), explore massive rock outcroppings, hike to a waterfall and natural pools, discover caves, and enjoy expansive views of the residential valley below.

4. Montaña de Oro State Park, Central Coast

One of California’s largest state parks also happens to be one of the most scenic. The 8,000-acre Montaña de Oro State Park literally has it all — seven miles of stunning rugged shoreline, sandy beaches and interesting dunes, tidepools, coastal plains, mountains, and canyons. One of my favorite trails is the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail, which follows the edge of the cliffs and leads past the magnificent Spooners Cove, has stairs down to the tidepools and beaches, and features amazing rock formations. That’s just one of the awesome trails in the park. You can hike up to Valencia Peak for breathtaking views and explore patches of oak forest and Coon Creek, among other trails. There is no shortage of adventure and plenty of space to breathe. 

5. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, Carlsbad

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a hidden gem nestled in a 27-acre canyon. The park is the site of a former Spanish-style rancho and serves to protect several beautiful hand-crafted adobe buildings, antique windmills, and other historic structures. In addition to wandering the ranch and exploring a bit of California history, you can set off on the 2-mile Rancho Carrillo Loop Trail to enjoy the natural beauty and intricate landscaping in the canyon. And keep your eye out for the many colorful peacocks that call the ranch home.

So, which of these serene parks and trails will you be exploring? Share this article with a fellow nature lover and start planning your outdoor escape now! If you are always seeking cool trails and remote or off-the-beaten-path locations, we recommend trying out AllTrails+ for expert navigation, offline maps, and tons of other helpful features.