Peters Canyon Hiking Trail in Orange, CA Hiking Guide

Just southeast of Los Angeles, California, lies the Peters Canyon Regional Park. This park features a trail by the same name that winds its way through coastal sage scrubs and many other plants. Some are native to the area, others propagated by stewards of the land.

Many activities are available at the park, including the Peters Canyon hiking trail featuring the North Loop and East Ridge Loop. The North Loop runs around the northernmost part of the park. The East Ridge Loop continues the entire length of the park. Within these trails, there are varying difficulties and many more enjoyable sights to see.

The trails are available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A diverse range of experiences is available depending on your skill and mobility. Excellent hiking activities include bird watching and spotting the vast array of wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and other amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.

Trails may be closed for up to three days following rainstorms due to the sand and soil in southern California. Check the weather patterns before scheduling your trip to Peters Canyon.

Bathrooms, water fountains, and information kiosks are found along the hiking trails.

The trails are open daily between 7 A.M. and sunset.

Difficulty

There are varying difficulties with multi-use trails, all trails can be completed on foot.

Distance

The North Loop trail is 2.5 miles, and the East Ridge Loop is 5.7 miles.

Trail begins

The trails begin at the park entrance, 8548 E. Canyon View Avenue, Orange, CA 92869

Gear/To Bring

While southern California remains pretty temperate year-round, bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you embark on the longer East Ridge Loop. Additionally, consider sturdy walking shoes and your camera to capture the views and binoculars to scope out wildlife.

Reviews

The Peters Canyon trail receives rave reviews from hikers, but they warn that the park can get busy on the weekends and advise planning a weekday walk. Overall, it is a family-friendly walk with some areas of increased difficulty depending on the skill level of the hikers.

Pets

Dogs are permitted and must remain on a leash.

Fees

There is a $3 parking fee. Park entrance is free.

Hike/Ride Time

The East Ridge Loop takes about 2.5 hours to complete on foot.

Best Seasons

Rain in southern California may cause the trails to close. Consider hiking this trail between April and October when there is significantly less chance of rain.