The best walks and hikes around Warm Springs
5.0
(6)
37
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking around Warm Springs offers diverse landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, canyons, and lake views. The region features a mix of established trails and truck routes, providing access to natural areas. Hikers can expect varied terrain, from lakeside paths to more challenging ascents through wilderness areas. This area provides opportunities to explore Southern California's unique chaparral and scrubland ecosystems.
Best hiking trails around Warm Springs
- The most popular hiking route is San Mateo Peak via Morgan Trail β San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 30 minutes to complete. This moderate route ascends through the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, offering views of the surrounding hills.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Levee Walk β Lake Elsinore, a moderate 7.2 miles (11.6 km) path. This trail provides expansive views across Lake Elsinore and its natural surroundings.
- Local hikers also love the Cariso Truck Trail β Lake Elsinore, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail leading through hilly terrain, often completed in about 3 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Warm Springs is defined by rolling hills, canyons, and lake shorelines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Warm Springs are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Warm Springs's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
11.2km
02:50
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
3.60km
01:20
220m
20m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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1.23km
00:21
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
7.20km
02:31
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
11.6km
02:56
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Warm Springs
Tips from the Community
This is a lovely forested spot along the creek. There are a number of water crossings along the trail near here, but you can get across easily enough by rock hopping.
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It is best to get to the trailhead early, and be sure to display your pass before you hit the trails. The Morgan Trail is mostly forested and runs along a creek for the first mile. From here you can hike up San Mateo Peak, to Tenaja Falls, and into Bear Canyon.
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The peak sits at 3,593 ft above sea level. You get fantastic views of the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, Mount Baldy Massif, and Lake Elsinore on the way up. The peak is marked by a pile of large boulders that make for a great picnic area.
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The levee walk ends here at the base of Rome Hill. You can turn around and follow the shore of Lake Elsinore back around to the north or explore the trails up Rome Hill.
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The wetlands are a man-made habitat preserve at the mouth of the Jan Jacinto River. This is an excellent spot for bird watching.
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Lake Elsinore is the largest freshwater lake in southern California. The levee walk is a flat trail which runs along the coast of the lake. This is a popular spot for biking, sightseeing, and dog walking.
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The bike trail circles the entire lake, with a gap on the Northeastern end where East Lakeshore Drive can be used.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Warm Springs?
There are 9 hiking routes around Warm Springs, offering a variety of experiences from easy walks to more challenging ascents. These trails explore the region's rolling hills, canyons, and lake views.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails in Warm Springs?
Hikers in Warm Springs can expect diverse terrain, characterized by rolling hills, canyons, and lake shorelines. The region features a mix of established trails and truck routes, providing access to Southern California's unique chaparral and scrubland ecosystems.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families in Warm Springs?
Yes, Warm Springs offers 2 easy hiking routes. A good option is the Canyon Lake loop β Kabian Memorial Park, which is 3.3 miles (5.3 km) long and takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete, offering pleasant lake views.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Warm Springs?
The routes in Warm Springs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 5 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from lakeside paths to scenic ascents, and the opportunities to explore the unique local ecosystems.
Are there any circular walks available in Warm Springs?
Yes, for a circular walk, consider the Canyon Lake loop β Kabian Memorial Park. This easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) route offers a pleasant circuit around Canyon Lake.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking in Warm Springs?
While hiking in the Warm Springs area, you can explore several natural and historical attractions. Lake Elsinore is a prominent feature, offering expansive views, especially from trails like the Levee Walk. You can also discover the Walker Canyon Ecological Reserve and the Wetlands Habitat, which showcase the region's unique ecosystems.
Are there any trails that offer good views of Lake Elsinore?
Absolutely. The Levee Walk β Lake Elsinore is a moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) path that provides expansive views across Lake Elsinore and its natural surroundings. Another option is the Cariso Truck Trail β Lake Elsinore, which leads through hilly terrain with views of the lake.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Warm Springs?
Given the region's chaparral and scrubland ecosystems, the best time to hike in Warm Springs is typically during the cooler, drier months, from late fall through spring. Summers can be very hot, making early mornings or late afternoons preferable if hiking during that season.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the Warm Springs area?
Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider the Morgan Trail. This moderate route spans over 10 miles (16.3 km) and involves significant elevation changes, offering a more strenuous outing through the area's hills.
What kind of natural environment will I encounter on the trails?
The trails in Warm Springs traverse Southern California's unique chaparral and scrubland ecosystems. You'll encounter landscapes characterized by rolling hills, canyons, and the distinct flora and fauna adapted to this arid environment, often with views of Lake Elsinore.
Are there any historical points of interest near the hiking trails?
Yes, the area includes the Historic Highway 395, which offers a glimpse into the region's past. Additionally, the Historic Downtown Riverwalk (Temescal Wash Trail) provides a blend of natural beauty and historical context.
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