11 Amazing Southern California Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love
There are times when you want to get out in nature, but you don’t have an entire day or even just an afternoon to take a long hike. If you’re seeking a quick outing in Southern California that will make you feel refreshed and recharged, these scenic trails ranging from a half mile long all the way up to three miles will get you outside in the fresh air while you explore some of the most scenic spots in SoCal.
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You'll love the scenic setting and the lush green trails at this 105-acre nature center located in Long Beach. With short trails under three miles that showcase the beauty of this natural setting, you may just want to loop around a second time.
For a scenic 3-mile loop at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, take the Mesa Trail and the Pocket Loop Trail for a perfect hike out in nature that is short and sweet.
Take a walk through the redwoods on this tree-lined trail tucked inside Carbon Canyon Regional Park. You'll be surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees in this Southern California grove of Redwoods.
When you head to San Diego there is one hike that should be on everyone's bucket list -- the Bayside Trail at Cabrillo National Monument. Along this two-mile hike you'll experience intoxicating views of San Diego Bay that is the perfect sight to see on a breezy SoCal day.
One of the shortest hikes on this list coming in at just one mile, you can get a great workout on this short but steep uphill incline that offers a breathtaking payoff at the top with a magnificent panoramic view.
Enjoy a quick burst of nature on this half-mile roundtrip trail located inside Griffith Park. The Ferndell Trail may not be a long trail, but it's definitely packed with tons of beautiful scenery including lush greenery, a pond, and even a fairy tale bridge that looks like it could be right out of a storybook.
For one of the most awe-inspiring views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Point Mugu, you better head out on this two-mile trail in Malibu that offers both mountain and ocean views that will take your breath away.
Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing hike with lakeside views along this trail in San Diego County that offers a nice and refreshing 2.7 mile loop. The trail is fairly flat and easy to navigate which makes it a great option for the whole family to enjoy for a short hike out in nature.
Although there are many trails to choose from within Elfin Forest, The Way Up Trail to Harmony Overlook is the trail you'll want to take when you're seeking a quick hike outdoors. This two-mile loop offers a variety of scenery and stunning nature views along the entire trail.
Located within Oak Glen Preserve you'll find a variety of nature trails to explore inside this sprawling natural oasis. When you only have time for a short hike, you'll want to take the Oak Glen Divide Trail which is just under 2.5 miles.
Take a walk along the trail at San Clemente Beach for ocean views and a relaxing vibe. The entire length of the trail from the metro stop is just under 2.5 miles. For a trail that's 3-miles round trip, just turn around at the 1.5 mile marker and you'll have yourself a perfect short hike for the day.
Doesn’t this list make you want to get outside and go on a hike right this second?! Any favorites on this list? A few of my favorites include Elfin Forest and El Dorado Nature Center.
For more hikes and outdoor activities in Southern California, make sure to head to our home page at Only In Southern California where he have hundreds of spaces and places for you to explore right here in Southern California.
