The best family-friendly hikes and walks in South Hills Wilderness Area

Our guide features 11 family-friendly hiking routes in the South Hills Wilderness Area. These range from easy strolls perfect for younger children to more moderate paths for active families.

For an easy and enjoyable family outing, consider the 4.4 km View of Puddingstone Reservoir loop from Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. This route offers gentle terrain and pleasant views, ideal for families looking for a less strenuous adventure.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in the South Hills Wilderness Area are circular, offering a convenient loop experience. The Puddingstone Reservoir – View of Puddingstone Reservoir loop from San Dimas is a moderate 9.1 km option that provides scenic views around the reservoir.

The South Hills Wilderness Area offers diverse and rewarding views. Many trails provide panoramic vistas, including 360-degree views from higher points. You can expect to see rolling hills, canyons, and expansive views over the surrounding area, especially from routes like the "View of the Valley Loop" from Big Dalton Canyon Wilderness Park.

The best time to visit for family hikes is during winter and early spring. The hills are lush and green, temperatures are pleasant, and wildflowers are often in bloom. Clear winter days can also offer views of snow-capped mountains in the distance. While summer can be hot, early morning or evening visits are recommended.

The South Hills Wilderness Area generally welcomes dogs on its multi-use trails, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations before you go, but many families enjoy bringing their canine companions along for the adventure.

Families can discover a rich Mediterranean ecosystem, including chaparral, coastal sage-scrub, and Southern Oak Woodland. Keep an eye out for specific flora like Golden Currant, California Sycamores, and various wildflowers, particularly in spring. There are also exposed layers of limestone in some areas, adding a geological point of interest.

The area offers convenient access points with parking available. You can find parking at South Hills Park on Mauna Loa Avenue and also near the 210 Freeway on Bonnie Cove. These locations provide good starting points for many of the trails.

The komoot community highly rates the routes in the South Hills Wilderness Area, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained trails, and the beautiful panoramic views, making it a favorite for family outings.

For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the Bonelli Park Loop Trail offers a moderate 10.7 km hike. It provides a good workout with varied terrain while still being manageable for active families.

While the South Hills Wilderness Area offers a variety of trails, most feature natural surfaces, rolling hills, and some elevation changes, which may not be ideal for all strollers or wheelchairs. We recommend checking individual route details for specific accessibility information, but generally, these trails are best suited for walking or hiking with carriers for very young children.