4.6
(15)
1,266
runners
15
runs
Jogging around Tustin offers diverse terrain, from urban river trails to challenging canyon paths. The region features a network of parks, including Peters Canyon Regional Park with its reservoir loops and varied topography. Runners can explore routes along the San Diego Creek, which provides mostly paved surfaces, or venture into the foothills and canyons for more elevation. Tustin's landscape combines natural features with accessible green spaces, catering to different running preferences.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
(1)
68
runners
13.9km
01:43
170m
170m
Embark on the Peters Canyon East Ridge Loop for a moderate jogging experience that takes you through varied terrain and offers expansive views. This route covers 8.7 miles (13.9 km)…
16
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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25
runners
15.8km
01:37
30m
30m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lots of walkers/hikers/dogs in Peters Canyon, so be prepared for a slow cruise enjoying the scenery. There are some very steep hills if you want them but they can be avoided if you'd like.
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Hicks Canyon Trail ends just ahead, but you can continue along the connecting Portola Parkway or the side path that branch off from this point.
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Hicks Canyon Community Park sits on the eastern end of the trail, offering a serene lake, picnic areas, and gazebos for visitors to enjoy.
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San Diego Creek is a 16-mile urban river that empties into Upper Newport Bay in Orange County. It follows Irvine's extensive system of trails and bike lanes, flowing through industrial areas, residential neighborhoods, and even the borders of the university campus.
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The trail is wide packed dirt with splendid views of the nearby hills and the upper reservoir. There is a bench and an informative signpost at the end of the Cactus Point which describes the role of the reservoir in drought prevention.
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Lake View Trail leads all around the Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir. The trail is easy but still includes some up and down. Along the trail, you will get nice views over the lake and the dam. Right above the dam, you can find a nice viewpoint with a bench.
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Trail through the Peters Canyon Regional Park, starting at the intersection of Canyon View Ave and Jamboree Rd and going down to the Lower Reservoir. The path is sand and gravel - and it has some rough patches and areas washed out, but a joy nonetheless. It is part of the ‘Mountains to Sea Trail’. And the Peters Canyon Trail continues further south, but is paved after passing the Lower Reservoir.
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The park has restrooms, sports fields, parking, and access to the Sand Diego Creek Trail. From here you can hike toward Woodbridge, along the creek to the ocean, or north along the bike path.
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Tustin offers a diverse range of running terrain. You'll find everything from flat, paved urban river trails along the San Diego Creek to moderate and challenging routes with elevation changes in areas like Peters Canyon Regional Park. The region features lush greenery, foothills, and scenic reservoir views, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
Yes, Tustin has options suitable for beginners. While many routes are moderate, you can find easier paths within parks like Laurel Glen Park or Cedar Grove Park, which offer flat, grassy areas and walking paths. The Lake View Trail loop around Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir is also a picturesque and relatively easier 2.6-mile path.
For longer runs, the San Diego Creek offers a 16-mile urban river trail that is mostly paved and ideal for endurance training. Additionally, the Santa Ana River Trail, easily accessible from Tustin, provides an even longer option, stretching for 30 miles between Huntington Beach and Riverside. Within Peters Canyon, routes like Peters Canyon East Ridge Loop cover 8.7 miles with varied terrain.
Absolutely. Many of the popular running routes in Tustin are loops. For example, you can explore the Lower Peters Canyon Reservoir – Peter Canyon Trail Bridge loop from Peters Canyon Regional Park, which is a moderate 4.2-mile path winding through the canyon. Another option is the Hicks Community Park loop from Tustin Market Place, covering about 7.5 miles.
Peters Canyon Regional Park is a prime spot for scenic runs, offering views of reservoirs, lush greenery, and foothills. The Lake View Trail around Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir provides picturesque vistas. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Orange County from trails like the Peters Canyon East Ridge Loop. For a different kind of scenery, the San Diego Creek trail offers views of nearby hills and the upper reservoir.
Yes, Tustin has several parks and trails that are family-friendly. Parks like Heritage Park and Cedar Grove Park offer expansive green spaces, walking paths, and amenities like playgrounds, making them great for families. The flatter sections of the San Diego Creek trail are also suitable for family outings. For a nature-themed experience, Cedar Grove Park even has a serene cedar grove and a nature-themed playground.
Tustin's mild Southern California climate makes it suitable for jogging year-round. However, spring and fall are particularly ideal due to the pleasant temperatures. Even in summer, early mornings or late evenings can be comfortable, and winter offers cool, crisp air perfect for a run.
The running routes in Tustin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging canyon paths to serene reservoir loops, and the beautiful scenic views. The accessibility and well-maintained facilities in many parks also contribute to a positive experience.
Yes, Tustin's jogging routes are often close to various points of interest. You can find natural attractions like the Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir, which is a highlight along many Peters Canyon trails. The Back Bay Drive – Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve is also accessible and offers beautiful natural scenery. For a unique landmark, the Big A Sign at Angel Stadium is another notable attraction in the wider area.
There are over 15 dedicated running routes around Tustin, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. These include everything from short, easy loops to longer, more challenging trails with significant elevation changes, primarily within Peters Canyon Regional Park and along the San Diego Creek.
Yes, many of Tustin's parks and trailheads offer convenient parking. For instance, Peters Canyon Regional Park has designated parking areas for trail access. Other community parks like Heritage Park and Cedar Grove Park also provide parking facilities, making it easy to access the various running routes.
While specific public transport access varies by trailhead, many areas in Tustin are served by local bus routes. For trails within city parks or along major corridors like the San Diego Creek, checking local Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus schedules for stops near your desired starting point is recommended.


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