Top Trails for Hiking Southern California
Explore Fun and Classic Hikes in SoCal’s Most Beautiful Spots
If you love the outdoors, hiking Southern California offers a little bit of everything—rugged canyon climbs, peaceful forest paths, and wide-open views of coastal ridges. If you’re a weekend hiker or a seasoned trekker, Southern California is packed with scenic trails that deliver unforgettable views and a refreshing dose of nature just minutes from the city.
This video playlist is your ultimate companion to seeing the best hiking spots in the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, and the Los Angeles National Forest. I’ve explored each of these trails personally, capturing stunning visuals and giving firsthand tips so you can plan your next outdoor adventure with confidence.
Why Hike in Southern California?
Southern California’s varied landscape means you can hike year-round and never get bored. From desert terrain and mountain switchbacks to shady oak groves and seasonal waterfalls, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s why this region is a hiker’s paradise:
- Mild weather year-round
- Trails for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced
- Easy access from major cities like Los Angeles and Santa Clarita
- Plenty of natural diversity—from wildflowers and wildlife to unique rock formations
This hiking Southern California video series brings these highlights to life, trail by trail.
What You’ll See in This Video Playlist
This playlist features some of the best hikes in the SoCal area, and my favorites! Including:
- Placerita Canyon (Santa Clarita): Shaded trails, historical sites, and a seasonal creek make this a family favorite.
- Whitney Canyon (Santa Clarita): offering easy to moderate trails with sweeping views of the Santa Clarita Valley. Known for its oak woodlands, seasonal streams, and wildflowers in spring, it’s a peaceful escape just minutes from the city—ideal for hikers, runners, and nature lovers alike.
- Towsley Canyon (Newhall): A loop hike featuring unique geology and occasional tar seeps.
Each video includes real-time hiking footage, trail conditions, scenery highlights, and tips on where to park, how to prep, and what to bring.
Who This Playlist Is For
This video series is perfect for:
- New hikers looking for reliable, scenic starter trails
- Locals searching for lesser-known gems in their backyard
- Weekend adventurers planning short day hikes
- Anyone dreaming of outdoor escapes from the city
Whether you’re training for something bigger or just want a peaceful walk in nature, these trails deliver.
Tips Before You Hit the Trail
To make the most of your Southern California hikes, keep these essentials in mind:
- Stay hydrated: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, especially in warmer months.
- Wear proper footwear: Many trails are rocky or uneven. Hiking shoes or trail runners are best.
- Check the weather: Conditions can shift quickly in the mountains.
- Start early: Beat the heat and the crowds by hitting the trail before 9 a.m.
- Respect wildlife and Leave No Trace—keep the trails beautiful for everyone.
Southern California is also rich in local hiking communities, meet-up groups, and volunteer trail maintenance crews. Joining a local hiking group can help you discover new trails, learn safety tips, and connect with others who share your love for the outdoors. Plus, many local parks host guided hikes and educational events that can enrich your trail experience even further.
And remember—every trail has its own story. Get out there, explore, and make it part of yours.
Start Your SoCal Hiking Adventure
Ready to discover the best of hiking Southern California? Watch the full video playlist to get inspired, plan your hikes, and fall in love with the trails I keep returning to again and again.
AllTrails is also a fantastic place to explore and search for your next SoCal hiking trail!
Hiking Gabrielino Trail: A Journey to the Hidden Falls
Want to see ...more waterfall hikes?: https://tinyurl.com/waterfallhikes
This shaded canyon hike is a nature lover's dream, featuring a serene creek, charming bridges, and a campground along the way. The trail leads to the historic Brown Mountain Dam, built in the 1940s as part of the Los Angeles River Watershed Program. Though the dam has since accumulated a significant sediment buildup, it remains a fascinating sight, highlighting the balance between human engineering and nature's resilience. Don't miss this incredible journey through one of California's beloved gems!
EXACT TRAILHEAD GOOGLE MAPS LOCATION:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BFVtkztmb6dUJuQG7
ALL TRAILS:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/brown-mountain-dam-waterfall
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:10 - The Hike
01:12 - Historical Bridges
02:51 - Bowling
03:00 - Angeles National Forest
04:15 - Gould Mesa Campground
06:05 - Paul Little Picnic Area
06:48 - Brown Mtn. Dam Falls!
08:27 - Outro
My copyright free music is from EPIDEMIC SOUND
For a 30-day FREE trial: https://share.epidemicsound.com/41vf3j // VIST MY WEBSITE: https://www.milesandhikes.com/Show More
Have a favorite trail I should make a video at? CONTACT ME!