Easy hikes and walks in South Hills Wilderness Area

The South Hills Wilderness Area offers 16 easy hiking trails, providing a variety of options for a relaxed outdoor experience. In total, there are 33 routes across all difficulty levels.

You'll encounter a diverse Mediterranean ecosystem characterized by rolling hills, canyons, and unique volcanic rock formations. The trails wind through chaparral, coastal sage-scrub, and Southern Oak Woodland. Depending on the season, you might also spot various wildflowers like Angel Gilia and Red Maids. Many routes offer panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley and distant mountains.

Yes, there are several easy circular routes. For example, the View of the valley loop from Big Dalton Canyon Wilderness Park is an easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) loop that offers scenic views and can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.

The South Hills Wilderness Area is enjoyable year-round, but the cooler months from fall through spring are often preferred for hiking. During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, and you might catch the wildflowers in bloom. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended if visiting then.

Many of the easy trails are well-suited for families. They feature gentle gradients and manageable distances. The San Dimas Canyon Park Trail, for instance, is a 1.2-mile (2.0 km) path through a park setting, perfect for a shorter family outing.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the South Hills Wilderness Area, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations at the trailhead, as rules can vary. Ensure you bring enough water for both yourself and your dog, especially on warmer days.

Parking is available at various access points. You can find trailheads from South Hills Park on Mauna Loa Avenue or under the 210 Freeway on Bonnie Cove. These locations typically offer convenient access to the network of trails.

Many easy trails offer impressive panoramic views. From the ridges, you can often see the expansive San Gabriel Valley, and on clear days, distant peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains such as Mt. Islip, Mt. Hawkins, and Mt. Baden Powell are visible.

The South Hills Wilderness Area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of a semi-wilderness experience within an urban setting, the diverse plant life, and the rewarding panoramic views from the ridge trails.

While popular, the South Hills Wilderness Area has a network of trails, and some may be less frequented than others. For a potentially quieter experience, consider exploring trails during off-peak hours (early mornings or weekdays). The Open Door Trail offers a peaceful, easy hike.

Even on easy trails, it's advisable to bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable hiking shoes, and a map or navigation app like komoot. Layers of clothing are also recommended as temperatures can change throughout the day. Don't forget your camera for the scenic views!