Easy hikes and walks around Covina
4.5
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Easy hiking trails around Covina, California, traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and urban park paths. The region offers access to various natural features, including the scenic Puddingstone Reservoir and areas with Coastal Sage Scrub. These routes provide accessible outdoor experiences within local parks and natural areas, catering to those seeking gentle gradients and well-maintained paths.
Best easy hiking trails around Covina
- The most popular easy hiking route is Open Door Trail, a 1.1 miles (1.7 km) trail that takes about 45 minutes to complete. This route features an elevation gain of over 270 meters.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop, an easy 2.1 miles (3.3 km) path. This trail offers varied terrain through canyon and backbone areas, typically completed in about 1 hour.
- Local hikers also love the Tree Line Trail, a 1.0 miles (1.6 km) trail leading through a tree-lined landscape, often completed in about 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Covina is defined by rolling hills, urban park paths, and reservoir loops, offering diverse scenery. The network provides options for various ability levels, with a focus on accessible and enjoyable routes.
- The routes in Covina are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from around 10 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Covina's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
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2
hikers
1.69km
00:47
270m
0m
Hike the easy 1.0-mile Open Door Trail in Angeles National Forest, gaining 889 feet for continuous views of the San Gabriel Valley.
2
hikers
7.17km
01:58
110m
140m
The Bonelli Bluffs Loop offers a refreshing escape with constant views of Puddingstone Reservoir, making it a popular choice for those seeking an easy outing. You'll traverse a varied terrain of single-track, fire roads, and paved sections, winding through areas shaded by coast live oak trees and past vibrant wild mustard. The trail's gentle ups and downs provide just enough challenge to feel like a proper hike without being overwhelming, all while enjoying the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Planning your visit to this Bonelli Bluffs Loop family friendly trail is straightforward, with plenty of parking available within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. As a multi-use path, you'll share the route with cyclists and equestrians, and it's also a Bonelli Bluffs Loop dog friendly option, so bring your leashed canine companion. To avoid the busiest times and warmer temperatures, an early morning start is often ideal for this accessible route.
This trail is notable for its convenient location in San Dimas, offering a quick natural retreat from urban life. The Bonelli Bluffs Loop terrain elevation difficulty is rated easy, making it suitable for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxed outing. You can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities, from hawks to rabbits, and the park's amenities like picnic areas add to its appeal as a versatile outdoor destination.
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1
hikers
7.78km
01:59
30m
20m
The Santa Fe Dam Loop offers an easy 4.8-mile (7.8 km) hike with a gentle 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 59 minutes. You'll experience a diverse landscape, from paved sections to wilder dirt paths winding through chaparral and sandy stretches. Enjoy continuous views of the 70-acre lake, often with the impressive San Gabriel Mountains, including Mount Baldy, as a backdrop. Keep an eye out for abundant birdlife and native plants, and don't miss the sandy beach area dotted with palm trees, adding a unique Southern California vibe to your walk.
Planning your visit to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is straightforward, with ample parking available. The trail is dog-friendly, though your leashed companion won't be able to join you on the Nature Center's interpretive trail. For the best experience, consider arriving early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and increased chances of spotting wildlife. The park also features a Nature Center, a swim beach, and a water play area during the summer, making it a great destination for a full day out.
Originally developed for flood control by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is often called a "hidden jewel of Southern California" due to its unique habitat and diverse plant community. The loop connects to the longer San Gabriel River Trail, offering options for extended adventures. This area serves as a "Trails Compass" for eastern Los Angeles County, providing a blend of manicured park landscapes and untamed natural sections, and even hosts the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in spring.
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hikers
3.32km
00:57
70m
80m
The Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop offers a delightful mix of shaded canyon paths and open ridge views, making it a popular choice for a quick nature fix in Glendora. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dirt paths under the canopy of live oaks and sycamores to a wide dirt road along the backbone, where panoramic 360-degree vistas of the city unfold. Keep an eye out for glistening hilltops adorned with cacti and, in spring, a scattering of wildflowers.
This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike, with a manageable 245 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 56 minutes to complete. It's a multi-use trail, so you might share the path with bicyclists and equestrians. For the best experience, visit during the cooler months of winter or early spring when the hills are vibrant green and the air is clear, or tackle it at daybreak during summer to beat the heat.
Nestled within the South Hills Wilderness Park, this loop is a true "island" of nature within the urban sprawl, easily accessible directly from the street. It's a fantastic option for a beginner hike or a family outing, offering a chance to reach "Summit 1212" for decent views, marked by a cairn and survey benchmarks. The trail system provides a great network of paths for exercise and a refreshing dose of the outdoors.
3.42km
01:03
190m
20m
The Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak offers a surprisingly diverse urban hike, transitioning from single track to dirt roads with switchbacks and shaded groves. You'll find unique features like a distinctive teepee early on, and pass a ranch-style house with grazing horses. The real payoff comes at Buzzard Peak, the highest point in the San Jose Hills, where you're treated to commanding 360-degree panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) route, with 618 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in just over an hour, making it a perfect quick escape.
Planning your visit is straightforward; parking is available along Grand Avenue, just a short walk from the trailhead. There's no permit required, and if you're wondering "Is Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak dog friendly?" the answer is yes, so feel free to bring your canine companion. For the best views, pick a clear day, and consider going in the morning or late afternoon. This trail is an excellent choice for a quick outing, even suitable for a "lunchbagging" hike.
What makes the Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak truly stand out is its accessibility as an urban hike combined with its extensive scenic rewards. The area is known for staying greener longer into the year compared to other nearby open spaces, offering a refreshing landscape. It also connects to the broader Schabarum Skyline Trail, providing options for longer adventures if you wish to explore further. It's a true hidden gem among the best hiking trails near Buzzard Peak.
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Tips from the Community
Hear a plane coming in for a landing? You're experiencing air traffic from Brackett Field Airport. This airport is over 100 years old; it was established in 1911 and is one of the oldest operating airports in the Los Angeles area. There are only two runways here, and this small airport is a hub for flight training schools, charter services, and recreational flying.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Covina?
There are over 20 easy hiking trails around Covina, offering a variety of experiences from urban park paths to routes through rolling hills. In total, komoot lists 41 hiking routes in the area, with 24 specifically categorized as easy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Covina?
Easy hikes in Covina typically feature rolling hills, urban park paths, and reservoir loops. You'll find well-maintained paths with gentle gradients, often traversing areas with Coastal Sage Scrub or offering views of the scenic Puddingstone Reservoir. Routes like the Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop offer varied terrain through canyon and backbone areas.
Are there any easy loop trails in Covina?
Yes, Covina offers several easy loop trails. The Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop is a popular 2.1-mile option, and the Santa Fe Dam Loop provides a longer 4.8-mile route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely walk.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to look for on easy hikes?
Many easy trails offer scenic views, particularly of the surrounding rolling hills and the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance. You can find a beautiful View of Puddingstone Reservoir, especially within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. Trails also showcase local flora like Coastal Sage Scrub.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Covina?
Yes, the easy trails around Covina are generally suitable for families due to their gentle gradients and well-maintained paths. Routes like the Tree Line Trail are short and offer a pleasant experience for all ages.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Covina?
The easy hiking trails in Covina are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility, the pleasant scenery of rolling hills, and the well-maintained nature of the paths, making them enjoyable for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy trails with a bit more elevation gain for a gentle workout?
If you're looking for an easy trail with a noticeable but manageable elevation gain, the Open Door Trail is a good choice. This 1.1-mile route features an elevation gain of over 270 meters, offering a gentle workout with rewarding views.
Can I find any trails that follow a creek or riverbed?
While not explicitly listed in the easy routes, the Michael D. Antonovich Trail in Walnut Creek Community Regional Park, located nearby, is known for following a creek bed. This 4.8-mile path is generally well-maintained and offers a pleasant experience along the water.
What are some points of interest or attractions near the easy hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore highlights such as the View of Puddingstone Reservoir or the San Gabriel Canyon Road Scenic View. The area also includes the Mt. San Antonio Wildlife Sanctuary for nature observation.
Are there any short, easy trails perfect for a quick walk?
For a quick and easy walk, consider the Tree Line Trail, which is about 1.0 mile long and can be completed in around 25 minutes. The Horsethief Canyon Trail is another short option, also around 1.0 mile.
What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails in Covina?
Covina's climate generally allows for hiking year-round. However, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for exploring the easy trails. During summer, it's best to hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
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