Irvine is a premier destination for outdoor recreation, boasting family-friendly trails and scenic views of the rolling hills surrounding the city. With numerous hiking trails in the area, all within a short drive of popular hotels, visitors can enjoy diverse outdoor activities and vast open space. We encourage you to explore all of the outdoor recreation opportunities in Irvine.
Quail Loop Trail
This open-space loop trail, located off Shady Canyon Drive, is a great option for a short trail run. The path is not technical, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and blooming wildflowers in the spring. Be sure to bring water, as there is no shade.
Make sure you have a map handy, as this trail includes a short, steep climb. The breathtaking views from Sunset Point are well worth it, offering stunning vistas of both the ocean and mountains. Parking is available at Bonita Canyon Elementary School on weekends, but be prepared for sun exposure and bring plenty of water.
The paved Shady Canyon Trail travels through the Quail Hill and Boomer Canyon Open Spaces, offering great views of the rolling landscapes. A parallel gravel path runs alongside the paved trail for long stretches. The trail begins at Quail Hill Open Space and ends at Bonita Canyon Drive.
This well-maintained and quiet trail is a great option for a hike in Irvine. The wide paths are well-marked, but be prepared for little to no shade. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the trail is exposed. You’ll likely see plenty of other hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, especially on weekends.
The Bosque Trail is part of the Great Park of Irvine’s trail system, with access available at parking areas within Bosque Canyon Park. This trail travels through native habitat full of wildflowers, attracting a variety of birds and butterflies. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.
This is a smooth, paved trail with scenic views of the city, flowers, and trees. The path is accessible and mostly flat, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and keep an eye out for squirrels and other wildlife.
Irvine Hiking Trails Have a Mix of Difficulty Levels for Everyone
Irvine offers a scenic and well-maintained network of hiking trails for all skill levels, many of which wind through the Irvine Ranch Conservancy and showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems—from coastal canyons and oak groves to panoramic city views. Whether you’re a family with young kids, a weekend warrior, or a seasoned trekker, Irvine has the perfect trail for your next outdoor adventure. Use the guide below to match your ability and interests, and don’t forget to Plan Your Visit for trail maps, hours, and seasonal tips.
Easy Trails for Families & Casual Walkers
Distance & Effort: Under 3 miles, minimal elevation gain, wide and mostly flat paths, ideal for strollers and beginners. Terrain: Graded dirt or paved surfaces with benches, shade, and rest stops nearby. Perfect For: Nature walks, photography, kids, and seniors.
Example Trails:
Quail Loop Trail (Quail Hill): 2 miles loop, ~1 hour. Restrooms and free parking available; stroller-friendly. Enjoy sweeping grassland views and interpretive signs through this Irvine Ranch Conservancy gem.
Treehill South Loop: 1.5 miles, ~45 minutes. Adjacent playground and picnic area. Great spring wildflower blooms and shaded oak spots.
North Lake Trail (Woodbridge): 2.7 miles, ~1 hour. Paved lakefront path with playgrounds and cafes nearby; ideal for evening strolls and duck watching.
Moderate Trails for Active Hikers
Distance & Effort: 3–6 miles, 200–800 ft elevation gain, with rolling terrain and some steeper sections. Terrain: Mix of dirt trails, switchbacks, and occasional rocky patches. Partial shade and water fountains at some trailheads. Perfect For: Hikers seeking a bit of a challenge, fitness walks, and wildlife spotting.
Example Trails:
Turtle Rock Trail: 3.5 miles, ~1.5–2 hours. Scenic loop with restrooms at the base, shady sections, and panoramic views of Irvine.
Bommer Canyon Trail: 4.7 miles, ~2.5 hours. Starts in an old cattle camp with picnic tables and continues through oak woodlands and meadows. Spring and fall are ideal for cooler temps and wildlife sightings.
Jeffrey Open Space Trail: Up to 5 miles one-way, paved and natural surfaces. Shady in parts with interpretive art, water fountains, and rest areas.
Challenging Trails & Long Loops
Distance & Effort: 6+ miles, 1,000+ ft elevation gain, rugged and steep in places; requires endurance and preparation. Terrain: Steep inclines, narrow paths, and rocky sections; limited water and shade. Perfect For: Experienced hikers, trail runners, and adventurers with appropriate footwear, hydration, and wildlife awareness.
Example Trails:
Shady Canyon Loop: 9.2 miles, ~4–5 hours. Exposed ridgelines with coastal canyon views; minimal amenities—bring water and sun protection.
Quail Trail to Little Sycamore: 7.5 miles round-trip, ~3.5–4 hours. Rugged and remote, ideal for spotting hawks and mule deer; trailhead begins at Quail Hill.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Irvine
Stay Safe & Prepared on Irvine Trails
Exploring Irvine’s trails is a rewarding way to experience the region’s natural beauty, from blooming wildflowers to sweeping views of coastal sage scrub landscapes. To make the most of your adventure, stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and be mindful of local wildlife such as rattlesnakes, coyotes, and mountain lions. Learn to identify poison oak, practice trail etiquette, and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep Irvine’s open spaces pristine. Before setting out, check maps, cell service, and weather conditions—especially for summer heat, spring bloom crowds, or rain-related washouts.
Recommended Day Hike Packing List
Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
Trail map or GPS device
Snacks or energy bars
Lightweight first-aid kit
Sturdy hiking shoes or trail sneakers
Layers or light jacket
Insect repellent
Fully charged phone and portable charger
With the right preparation, your Irvine hike will be safe, enjoyable, and memorable—then treat yourself to a comfortable stay at a nearby hotel to round out your adventure.
Plan Your Irvine Hiking Trip
Irvine’s trails offer something new in every season—spring blooms bursting with color, golden summer sunsets, and vibrant fall foliage—making each hike a fresh experience. Along the way, hikers can enjoy wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and photography at scenic viewpoints across Irvine’s regional parks. For easy trip planning, pair a morning hike with brunch, pack a family picnic to enjoy after playground time at Great Park, or plan a sunset walk followed by a delicious dinner at local Irvine restaurants. Nearby Irvine Attractions and hotels make it simple to turn a day on the trails into a full getaway. With convenient lodging options close to the trails, booking a nearby stay ensures a comfortable base for your outdoor adventure.
English 
Japanese 
Korean 
Chinese