01
Best overall pick
Turnbull Canyon Trail
Whittier Hills • Chaparral Canyon And Ridge Hike • Scenic Workout Close To Town
A classic Whittier Hills loop with steady climbs, wide views, and a mix of fire road and singletrack.
Turnbull Canyon is where many Cerritos-area hikers go when they want a real workout without driving to the high mountains. The main loop gives you lung-testing hills, big views toward downtown Los Angeles on clear days, and wildflowers in spring. Go early to beat both the sun and the crowds, and expect limited shade along much of the route.
02
Best mixed-use loop
Fullerton Loop Trail
North Of Cerritos • Rolling Multi-Use Dirt Loop • Best For Weekend Mileage
An undulating 11–12 mile circuit that winds through canyons, neighborhoods, and oak-studded hillsides.
The Fullerton Loop is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, offering a long but approachable circuit not far from Cerritos. The terrain never gets extreme, but the distance adds up, making it great for building stamina or logging weekend miles. Watch for bikes on narrow stretches and use the many access points if you want to tackle a shorter segment instead of the full loop.
03
Best shaded canyon option
Powder Canyon Loop
La Habra Heights • Oak-Lined Canyon And Ridge Trails • Peaceful Hill-Country Escape
A network of trails that combine shaded canyon walking with airy ridgeline views over the Puente Hills.
Powder Canyon offers a quieter alternative to some of the busier regional parks, with enough elevation gain to feel like a proper hike. Sections of the canyon stay pleasantly shaded, while side trails climb to ridges where you can see rolling hills in every direction. It is a good choice for intermediate hikers or anyone wanting a taste of Puente Hills scenery without an all-day commitment.
04
Best close-to-home nature walk
El Dorado Nature Center Trails
East Long Beach • Lakeside And Creekside Nature Paths • Relaxed Family-Friendly Option
Gentle dirt and boardwalk loops that wind through ponds, trees, and wetlands just a short drive from Cerritos.
If you want something calmer than a big hill climb, El Dorado Nature Center delivers an easygoing escape with plenty of birds and shade. The 1‑ and 2‑mile loops are mostly flat, making them ideal for families, casual walkers, or recovery days. It feels surprisingly wild in spots, so slow down, keep your voice low, and you will often spot turtles, egrets, and other wildlife right off the trail.
05
Best coastal hike
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve Trails
Huntington Beach Coast • Coastal Wetland And Levee Walk • Top Pick For Birdwatchers
Flat paths and levees loop through tidal wetlands with ocean breezes and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Bolsa Chica is a scenic change of pace from inland hikes, trading hills for coastal air and sweeping marsh views. The trails are mostly exposed, but the lack of elevation makes them accessible to a wide range of walkers, including kids and casual strollers. Time your visit for early morning or late afternoon to catch softer light, more bird activity, and cooler temperatures along the water.