Go ahead, run wild.

The NROC has every type of terrain a runner could wish for, plus elevation changes, trail options for every skill level, and, most essentially, absolutely inspiring scenery to fuel your journey.

In the Reserve, the open spaces you can run through are as exhilarating as the run itself.

The hundreds of miles of trails offer every kind of experience, perfect for hardcore training and beginners alike. Singletrack paths weave through coastal canyons, lush woodlands, and ridgelines that reward your run with radiant views of the Pacific. You can choose your own terrain, from rolling hills that make for a dynamic pace to more technical climbs that will keep you on your toes.

The flatter loops of the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve and Peters Canyon Regional Park offer a perfect intro to trail running (and you can hit Peters Canyon’s steep but short hills when you want a bit of a challenge). Try Crystal Cove State Park for both the backcountry rolling hills and the scenic ocean views. More experienced runners can push themselves on the rugged climbs of Santiago Oaks Regional Park (hello, Mountain Goat Trail!) or the vast network of trails in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. Add in wildlife sightings, bursts of blooms in the spring, and the cool coastal breeze, and your run will more like an escape than a workout.

Find your stride on the vast network of trails throughout these parks.

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