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    Pacific Ridge Trailhead

    4.8 (40 reviews)

    Pacific Ridge Trailhead Photos

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    Lizelle P.

    Loved this trail. I went on a weekday morning and it was beautiful! Parked on the street (free parking) near the entrance of the trail. Do not park at the Coastal peak park parking as you may get a ticket. Stunning views. It isn't shaded so pack on that sunscreen!

    My Captain Morgan pose haha
    Jason R.

    I did the Perimeter Loop trail a couple weeks ago for the first time and enjoyed it. Parking- park for free by Coastal Peak Park...it does get busy so plan accordingly Trail- we did the loop clockwise and most of the incline was in the 2nd half; most of the trail is pretty wide which is good because there are cyclists and this is a popular area for hikers; not too difficult of a trail but could be hard for some due to it being somewhat long at 9.5 miles...we finished in 3 hrs but ran 2-3 miles...probably give yourself about 4 hrs if walking all of it; some nice views of the Pacific *hiking shoes would be helpful but tennis shoes with good traction will get the job done; no shade do make sure to use sunblock and perhaps a hat; bring 1-2 liters of water; hiking poles not needed

    Curtis A.

    A gem man! Great hike and it goes straight to the beach. The view is crazy and so beautiful. You can see such beautiful hills and the ocean. Wow! It's so fun and you can get a good workout here! Some steep and rocky parts, but that's the fun of it! 10/10 spot. Great spot to hang out with friends and family.

    Dani S.

    This place is absolutely stunning! My girlfriends wanted to do a trail run, so they brought me here on a Saturday morning to get some exercise. Street parking was not too bad and there's a bathroom right by the school at the entrance of the trailhead. We opted to do the rattlesnake trail loop and the views were amazing! It was an easy 5.5 mile loop with some hills, it does go from wide to narrow in some parts. There is no shade area, so definitely wear a hat and sunscreen. At some parts of the trail, the ground gets very uneven and rocky, so be careful to not twist your ankle. Carry tons of water as the weather gets pretty hot when the sun is out. I highly recommend this place for hiking, running, or just a leisurely walk.

    Beth D.

    This is one of my favorite trailheads (and trails) in the Crystal Cove area. I usually walk 1.3 miles down to the No Name Trail and take that down to the No Dogs trail, which ends at El Moro school. Not only is it gorgeous, but it's fairly moderate in most parts and you can reach Crystal Cove beach from Pacific Ridge (and avoid parking fees). I do suggest bringing extra water, since it gets pretty warm up there and some of the uphill climbs can be challenging. Overall, it's a great hike and highly recommend!

    Trail entrance
    Angela S.

    The Cypress Pacific Ridge Trailhead , starts in a residential area near Coastal Peak Park and offers great access into the Crystal Cove California State Park trails along the mountain side of Newport and Laguna coasts wilderness park. (Also, check out my review of the trails for more info). There is signage along the way to provide maps with options for more or less challenging routes as you enter the park as well as indicating that there are no dogs allowed. If you want a great natural cardio, leg and glute workout, then the trails are just the place. And although you can enter Crustal Cove State Park from the Laguna Beach side, Cypress Pacific Ridge Trailhead provides great local access to the trails with free parking, water fountains and restroom facilities at Coastal Peak Park near the playground.

    Hannle P.

    Enjoyed this trail a lot since there are several paths to choose from. Our group got to the park @548am and already a lot of ppl here. We hiked through sun rise and took the easy trail to go through the tunnel and enjoyed the beach to ourselves before it gets crowded. Heading back, we took a more elevated trail as if the heatwave on Saturday wasn't bad enough @830am. Be sure to enjoy the scenery and the ocean and what Cali has to offer. :)

    And so the adventure begins
    Leland S.

    Rather than celebrating Black Friday we decided to do #OptOutside with some friends. FEELS: It's in a high-end suburban area and close to a park. A peaceful place with a nice view of the city, mountains, and the beach. PARKING: If you come early in the morning like before 8am, you're good. It's a popular place for bikers and locals but not the most sexy place to be. OVERALL DIFFICULTY: 2.5 stars. For those interested in hiking or biking, here is a nice place for beginners. This is a nice place for minimal epic scenery but good for working out in a place not too hard to get lost. There are hills but the hike is pretty much a make your own in regards to you choose the paths (not force one). Great place for people of all ages. TIPS: * No dogs allowed * Bring a hat, it can get lost.

    Christopher W.

    Like the hike to Crystal Cove and back. Sorry to say lack of miles between intersections info on top map led to misestimation of distance (8.5 miles actual vs 7 estimated). Would suggest adding "miles between" info, which is available say 2 miles in, but not at start. Beautiful scenery - million dollar views every quarter mile. Trail is like a narrow groomed ski slope. Thanks for a delightful 4 hours out in nature.

    Susan L.

    Beautiful trail especially in the morning and evening, beautiful view all around there is no shade so cover up and apply sunscreen! Free parking but gets full easy so come before the crowd. This doesn't have a physical address, use the Coastal peak address and just go straight ahead and you will find the entrance, this pics is the trail to the right!

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Gorgeous view, clean, accessible, and fairly challenging. Never had issues with anyone there. Only con would be a heard a rattlesnake once.

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    8 years ago

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    3 years ago

    This was a great hike. The views were the best part. I would recommend taking a good pair of shoes, as it can be loose and muddy in parts.

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    8 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Such a beautiful trail! I'm an amateur hiker and I found this trail to be just challenging enough.

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    10 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    8 years ago

    Beautiful and pristine trails, but I'm bummed I drove all that way and paid tolls to get there only to find out dogs aren't allowed :(

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

    Beautiful dirt trail in the spring with wildflowers, mustard rolling green hills and the ocean in front of you too!

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    9 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    10 years ago

    One of my favorite runs in OC. Beautiful views and enough variety to keep it interesting.

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    10 years ago

    Great hike with almost endless ocean views. Not too difficult for the beginners.

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    Ask the Community - Pacific Ridge Trailhead

    Is this trail dog friendly?

    It says no dogs allowed, and for good reason. There are certain times of days that snakes are more prevalent and will often jump out of the bushes. There are also certain plants dogs shouldn't be around. It's up to you whether you want to risk it

    Are dogs allowed?

    No dogs are not allowed on the trails for OC Parks and Crystal Cove State Park

    Would anyone recommend a night hike with friends?

    Please check the hours of operation if allowed night hike, we did sunset hike; amazing view!!

    Which trail is the easiest for someone with bad knees?

    Honestly just staying on the main track is easiest. Most single path tracks include lots of inclines.

    Is this a trail where I can take my jeep to off road there?

    No it's a pedestrian walk trail. Never seen any vehicles.

    Are dogs allowed in the park?

    Need to look at particular trails. In sensitive areas, where birds or critters might get spooked by dogs, answer is likely no. Some trails, eg Crystal Cove along PCH, answer is yes. Do not know of any "yes dogs ok" trails out of Pacific Ridge… Read more

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    Review Highlights - Pacific Ridge Trailhead

    The Pacific Ridge trail which begins in a residential area in Laguna, will take you directly to Crystal Cove.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

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    Back Bay Loop Trail - Back Bay Residents

    Back Bay Loop Trail

    4.5(174 reviews)
    5.3 mi

    The Back Bay Loop Trail is one of the best spots in Orange County for scenic views and outdoor…read moreactivity. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or running, this trail is a great option for all levels. It's especially beginner-friendly since there's very little elevation gain or loss. However, it is on the longer side, so I recommend coming prepared for a bit of distance. The views definitely make it worth it though. You can always ditch and go back to your car at any point if you find the hike too long. One of my favorite parts is that there are some great coffee shops you can stop by near different access points along the loop. The area also feels very safe. Overall, this is a perfect go-to trail if you're looking for something scenic and easy.

    Can't believe it's been over five years since my last review of this trail…read more My opinion stands strong that the Newport Back Bay is the coolest walking trail in Orange County. This little plot of land feels like a nature oasis, easily accessible, but hidden from the craziness that's Southern California. While I still enjoy a relaxing walk here, I've recently started paddle boarding the Newport Back Bay. I couldn't list a better location for paddleboarding. It feels like it's just you, the ocean, and tons of wildlife. You'll stumble upon jumping fish, crabs, stingray, and all types of unique birds. Such an incredible escape, crazy that it's right in the center of Newport Beach.

    Photos
    Back Bay Loop Trail - Back Bay Life

    Back Bay Life

    Back Bay Loop Trail
    Back Bay Loop Trail - Ready for a hike?

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    Ready for a hike?

    El Moro Trails & Crystal Cove State Beach - A California Towhee trying to hide lol

    El Moro Trails & Crystal Cove State Beach

    4.4(213 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    I did a nice 10 mile trail run. Trails are well marked and easy to follow. Lots of up and down so…read moreit's perfect training for trail racing. The only downside is the $15 parking fee. If I had to pay $15 every time I wanted to run trails, I would go broke!

    Excellent hiking trails with vast ocean views, great birding opportunities, and access to the…read morelovely Crystal Cove beach after your hike - very nice place to enjoy nature and get some fresh air! I could even see all the way to Catalina last time I visited. The El Moro Canyon trails are found inside Crystal Cove State Park and there are quite a few of them. They're well maintained with lots of info signs so they're easy to follow - but they're also all on AllTrails. I did the Short Loop Trail on my last visit which ended up being just over 3 miles long with 500 feet elevation gain. Most of the gain is in the first part as you take the "Poles" cut through and it's a real butt burner - but fun and worth it! A great workout. The birding is excellent here - you get a nice mix of riparian habitat and coastal birds as well. After my hike, I relaxed at the beach a bit and it was a lovely way to wind down. There are some tide pools at the north end and plenty of space to relax on the sand as well. There's a pedestrian underpass to get to the beach so you don't have to cross busy Hwy 1 - and this is the most unpleasant part of the park - you have to wade through some pretty icky standing water to get to the beach. It's ankle to calf deep and the ground is very uneven so I highly recommend water shoes - who knows what's submerged in there :P But everything else about the park is great - lots of clean bathrooms, outdoor showers to rinse off the salt and sand, shaded picnic tables, a huge amphitheater, and plenty of paved parking. Day use fee is $15 and you can pay by QR code or at the entrance.

    Photos
    El Moro Trails & Crystal Cove State Beach - These cacti are about to burst into blooms!

    These cacti are about to burst into blooms!

    El Moro Trails & Crystal Cove State Beach - Blooming cactus along the trail!

    Blooming cactus along the trail!

    El Moro Trails & Crystal Cove State Beach - Anna's Hummingbird along the trails!

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    Anna's Hummingbird along the trails!

    Pirate's Cove Beach - Stairs down to the beach

    Pirate's Cove Beach

    4.4(62 reviews)
    4.5 mi

    What an amazing day we had. I was there with my church Calvary chapel Chino Hills to get baptize…read more It was wonderful to see many people there . Parking was thigh. The Brea h was clean and perfect for the day .

    It's all about rocks and caves. And a hidden cove?…read more Instagram and TikTok have probably made this once obscure beach in Corona del Mar way too popular, but back in the day, while the parents were beachgoing at nearby Corona del Mar State Beach, we preteens and early teenagers were exploring the caves at Pirate's Cove and scrambling all over the sometimes dangerous rocks. But our moms weren't within eyesight or earshot, so we ran and climbed and splashed and wrestled. It felt like every time I came here, I cut my hands or arms or shins on the rocks, but I didn't care, because I was learning independence, and I didn't dare complain in front of my friends. The sandy part of the beach itself can get completely swallowed by the high tide, so plan ahead. The Newport Harbor Jetty (and, to a lesser extent, the CDM State Beach Jetty) protect(s) the beach from waves, so there's no real bodyboarding or bodysurfing to be had. That's probably a good thing, too, because these rocks would be treacherous if this beach weren't completely enclosed within Newport Bay's entrance channel. The metal fences separating the deeper parts of the caves always scared me. I realized the fencing was to prevent children from getting where adults couldn't fit, because high tides could mean drowning or otherwise getting hurt, but it was still spooky. I believe my friend Michael tried to bend back the metal, but he couldn't, despite how rusty and old it seemed. The stairs down to the beach are much nicer and sturdier than they used to be. Otherwise, it looks and feels the same as it did thirty-five years ago.

    Photos
    Pirate's Cove Beach - 05.01.23 'Jesus Revolution' Filming Location PTL!

    05.01.23 'Jesus Revolution' Filming Location PTL!

    Pirate's Cove Beach - 05.01.23 Pirate's Cove Beach is the small beach on the west side of the parking lot at Corona Del Mar State Beach

    05.01.23 Pirate's Cove Beach is the small beach on the west side of the parking lot at Corona Del Mar State Beach

    Pirate's Cove Beach

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    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

    4.6(178 reviews)
    5.9 mi

    I come here often, and this time I brought a friend who was visiting for the first time. We arrived…read morea bit late around 8am and couldn't find street or trailhead parking, so we ended up parking in the back lot. Not a huge issue, but something to keep in mind if you're coming later in the morning. The walk/hike itself was easy and enjoyable, with small side trails throughout the preserve that offer great vantage points of the Back Bay. We walked part of the loop toward Castaways Park and back, and really enjoyed the views of the bay along with the beautiful mansions along the way. We made a quick stop at the interpretive center to use the restroom, which was nice and pretty clean. There's also a water refill station inside, and we appreciated being able to sit on the benches and cool off for a bit before heading back out into the heat. Overall, it was a very productive and relaxing walk--great views, easy terrain, and plenty of time for good conversation. We'll definitely be back, especially since it's so close to one of my favorite matcha latte spots, Coffee Dose.

    Great location when you need a easy stroll with a beautiful view. The parking lot can't get busy…read moreduring the weekends. So you may have to park on the streets. You can go in either direction and there is a trail to follow. Beautiful views so you can't beat it. Easy trail

    Photos
    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve - Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve - Parking

    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve - Parking

    Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

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    Pacific Ridge Trailhead - hiking - Updated May 2026

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