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Wide-open skies, endless views, and a breath of fresh air; there’s nothing like spending the day outside. With sweeping hills and nature spots just minutes from home, enjoying the best hiking trails in Irvine, CA, can be part of your everyday life. We highlighted a few local favorites that are worth adding to your list.

Top Places To Hike in Irvine, CA

Whether you’re looking for a quick reset, a weekend stroll, or a chance to connect with nature, these Irvine trails are the perfect change of pace. Better yet, many of our top options are pet-friendly, so your next adventure can include your best pal.

1. French Hill

Start your morning with a quick uphill push at French Hill. Just minutes from Concordia University, this short out-and-back trail challenges you with steep climbs for a short but energizing hike. It’s the kind of boost that leaves you feeling recharged and ready for whatever comes your way.

2. Turtle Rock Trail

Take in stunning, wide-open skies at Turtle Rock Trail in Irvine. Winding past gorgeous rock formations, its route leads you up to Sunset Viewpoint, a local favorite for panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, a glimpse of the Pacific. Dogs are welcome, too, so you can bring your pup along for a sunset walk. Just don’t forget to pack your camera!

3. Quail Loop Trail

Up for a bike ride or squeezing in a morning run? The Quail Hill Trail in Irvine is a 2-mile loop that has gentle hills, wide paths, and views that stretch across open terrain. You’ll pass open grassland, beautiful wildlife, and even some fellow outdoor enthusiasts walking their pups, all following the mandatory leash rule, of course.

4. Shady Canyon Trail

If you’re up for a longer route, the Shady Canyon Trail in Irvine stretches nearly seven miles through rolling hills and open terrain. Don’t let the name fool you; there’s little to no shade here, so pack water, a hat, and some sunscreen. We recommend you go early to make the most of the views and its highlights, like a charming bridge and a lake, before the sun’s at its peak.

5. Bommer Canyon Trail

Find yourself surrounded by open hillsides and stunning groves of ancient oaks. This hiking trail in Orange County has certain areas that require advanced registration for guided hikes, as it’s part of Irvine’s protected natural landscape. Also, note that dogs are not allowed on Bommer Canyon Trail, so your best pal may have to sit this one out.

6. Back Bay Loop

Plan for a full day of outdoor fun at Back Bay Loop in Newport. As you walk its trail, keep an eye out for birds like herons, egrets, and ducks. You might even spot red foxes or white-tailed deer along the way. Then, stop at educational sites like the Environmental Nature Center or swing by the Newport Aquatic Center for kayak rentals. Whether you’re out for an hour or the whole day, this loop makes every moment count.

7. Jeffrey Open Space Trail

Head out for an afternoon walk on the Jeffrey Open Space Trail. You’ll cross under tunnels and follow paved paths as you take in the tree-lined paths and stretches of greenery along the way. Don’t forget to bring your dog along, as this is one of the Orange County hiking trails that’s pet-friendly. A simple way to get outside, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Enjoy the Hiking Trails in Irvine, CA, Just Minutes From Home

Location is everything when it comes to choosing your next home, and with nature just minutes away, a balanced lifestyle goes beyond your front door. Head out for a solo hike, a loop with your dog, or a weekend getaway on one of the best hiking trails in Orange County, all just a short drive from The Royce.

Our apartments in Irvine are near hiking trails that make outdoor living part of your routine. At your new home, you’re surrounded by more than elevated design; you’re welcomed to a lifestyle of connection and ease. Contact our team to learn more about life at The Royce.