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. Don’t be fooled by their short length- these are some of the best hikes in California!
You'll love the scenic hike 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.
Read more about the El Dorado Nature Center here.
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.
Learn more about Bolsa Chica.
18000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, USA
3. Redwood Grove Trail/Carbon Canyon Regional Park
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.
Read more about Redwood Grove Trail.
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 an intoxicating view of San Diego Bay that is the perfect sight to see on a breezy SoCal day. This is a great kid-friendly hike.
Learn more about the Bayside Trail and Cabrillo National Monument.
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.
Read more about Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook.
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Culver City, CA 90232, USA
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. If you're always searching "hiking trails near me," trust us- this is the one to take!
Learn more about Ferndell Trail/Griffith Park here.
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. This is one of the most scenic hikes in California.
Learn more about Point Dume here.
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.
Read more about Oak Oasis here.
Oak Oasis County Preserve, 12620 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040, USA
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.
Learn more about the Way Up Trail here./a>
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.
Read more about Oak Glen Preserve here.
Oak Glen Preserve, 39611 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399, USA
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.
Learn more about San Clemente Beach Trail here.
Beach Trail, San Clemente, CA 92672, USA
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.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes in California
March 11, 2022
Danielle Schwartz
What are the most picturesque hikes in California?
There are so many gorgeous hikes to take in California that it comes down to personal preference in many cases! One of the best-known and most stunning is the Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop in San Diego. With lovely ocean views and naturalists on-site to answer questions about the unique flora and fauna, you can't go wrong with Torrey Pines. Another favorite is Buzzards Roost Trail in Big Sur. While it's a steep incline at points, seeing the forest, mountains, and ocean on one trail is a reward all its own. Getting to see the buzzards bask in the sun is a peaceful site that will make you feel serene.
What are the best beaches in California?
La Jolla Shores Beach in La Jolla is known for its low-key waves perfect for beginner surfers, its upscale neighborhood, and its long, beautiful boardwalk. Santa Monica Beach is another classic, with tons of space on the sand for lounging and taking in the ocean. If you're in the Orange County area, you'll love beautiful Treasure Island Beach for its blue water, greenery, and relaxing and low-key coves.
Where can I hike to a cave in California?
While there are plenty of opportunities for exploring sea caves in the Golden State, one of the most popular is Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu. This amazing cave allows you to look at the waves lapping at the shore through the beautiful rocks. Go when the tide is low for the full experience!
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