Take a hike. Or a walk.

Hiking the hundreds of miles of NROC trails is one of the best ways to truly soak in the astounding breadth of nature these open spaces offer. There’s a trail for every mood, from gentle beachside strolls to ambitious backcountry climbs, and everything in between.

Irvine Ranch Hiking & Walking — Irvine Ranch Open Space

Sometimes loving your wild means lacing up your trail shoes and putting one foot in front of the other.

When you get to do that in a place as spectacular as the Nature Reserve of Orange County, you can truly appreciate what Southern California has to offer. Here you can hike through canyons swathed in old-growth oaks, take in sweeping ocean views while strolling coastal bluffs, and steep yourself in the wildlife the Reserve exists to protect.

Whether you want a heart-pumping hike or a leisurely nature walk, the Reserve is perfect for exploring on foot. Try a pre-sunset stroll at Crystal Cove State Park, go wildflower walking at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, or tackle the switchbacks at Santiago Oaks Regional Park.

You can go from city vibes to forest bathing in mere steps at Buck Gully Preserve—its 3-mile trail loop is a low-intensity favorite with coastal views and a number of bridges. For those who want to experience Central Orange County, make Peters Canyon Regional Park your destination. Its North Loop Trail is 2.5 miles long, a perfect jaunt for beginners; more experienced hikers can enjoy the 5.7-mile East Ridge View Trail and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the canyon and the land beyond.

Take a walk on the wild side at any of these parks, and discover the NROC, one trail at a time.

Got questions? We have answers.

: The Reserve features trails of almost every length, from 2 miles to 20, and the skill level required varies just as much. Some trails offer flat, paved paths for easy strolling. Others are rugged singletracks with challenging changes in elevation. Before hitting the Reserve, read through our First-Time Visitor’s Guide for an overview of some of the most popular trails, then look for details at the appropriate landowner or land manager’s site. Helpful resources include:

OC Parks

Let’s Go Outside

Crystal Cove State Park
: Trail closures can happen at any time, for many reasons, but they often happen when weather conditions—like fire risk or rain—make trails unsafe. Before heading out on your adventure, check the trail condition at the landowner or land manager’s site of the park you plan on going to. Helpful resources include:

OC Parks

Let’s Go Outside

Crystal Cove State Park
: The trails on land near the coast, which includes Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, and Crystal Cove State Park, are the most popular for both hikers and mountain bikers. These trails are most crowded on weekends and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
: Before heading out on a trail for the first time, consider printing a trail map (or grab one when available at the trailhead or Ranger Station). It’s easy to get lost while hiking, especially where multiple trails connect, even for experienced hikers and cyclists. Trail signage exists, so keep an eye out for it, but it’s best to have an additional navigation source when exploring the Reserve. Depending on which park you plan on visiting, trail maps can be found on each park’s landowner and land manager websites. Helpful resources include:

OC Parks

Let’s Go Outside

Crystal Cove State Park

Be Prepared

Expect the unexpected on your adventure. Tell a friend or family member where you are going and what time you plan to return, keep an eye on local weather reports, bring plenty of water, and carry emergency essentials with you. Learn More

Know Before You Go

Each park within the NROC has its own activities, hours, and guidelines, all rooted in respect for the land. Before you visit, check out their site so there are no surprises. Learn More

Leave It as You Find It

Nurturing the beauty of this nature is a communal effort—love your wild by taking nothing from the Reserve and leave no trace behind. Learn More

Keep Wildlife Wild

You are bound to see some exciting wildlife on the Reserve, and we do mean wild. Respecting the animals’ space will ensure your safety and theirs. Learn More