01
Closest wild feel to Covina
Galster Wilderness Park Trails
West Covina Hills • Pocket Wilderness With Oak-Covered Slopes • Best For Close-To-Town Escapes
A compact hillside preserve with short but satisfying loops, city overlooks, and a surprisingly wild feel just minutes from Covina.
Galster is where many locals go when they want dirt under their shoes without committing to a long drive or all-day outing. The network of signed trails climbs quickly through chaparral and coast live oaks to viewpoints over the San Gabriel Valley, with plenty of birds and lizards along the way. Expect some steep, sun-exposed stretches; early mornings and cooler days make the climbs more enjoyable.
02
Best for skyline views
Schabarum-Skyline Trail
Ridgeline Between Walnut And Rowland Heights • Long-Distance Multi-Use Ridge Trail • Best For Wide-Open Views
A rolling ridge route that strings together parklands and open space, offering big-sky views over the suburbs and distant San Gabriels.
Accessed from several trailheads west of Covina, the Schabarum-Skyline Trail is ideal if you like to stretch your legs on longer, gently undulating terrain. The path weaves along a backbone of hills above neighborhoods, so you get sweeping vistas with only moderate climbing. Shade is limited and the trail is shared with cyclists and equestrians, so bring sun protection and stay alert on blind corners.
03
Best lakeside loop
Bonelli Trail at Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Near Puddingstone Lake In San Dimas • Lakeside Rolling Trail Network • Best Mixed-Use Option
A scenic circuit around Puddingstone Lake with plenty of side trails, blending water views, gentle climbs, and a lively park atmosphere.
Bonelli is a great pick when your group has mixed energy levels, thanks to its combination of paved paths and dirt singletrack that you can link into custom loops. The main lakeside trail undulates through open grassland and pockets of trees, with frequent glimpses of the water, boats, and surrounding hills. It can be busy on weekends and holidays, so aim for early or late in the day if you prefer a quieter hike.
04
Classic mountain hike
Sturtevant Falls Trail
Chantry Flat, Angeles National Forest • Shaded Waterfall Canyon Hike • Classic Weekend Outing
A beloved forest trail that follows a cool creek to a 50-foot waterfall, delivering a true mountain feel within easy striking distance of Covina.
From the Chantry Flat trailhead above Arcadia, the route drops into a wooded canyon lined with cabins, footbridges, and a perennial stream. The grade is gentle on the way to the falls, making it approachable for newer hikers, but remember that you’ll climb back out to the parking lot on the return. Parking fills quickly and often requires a pass, so arrive early and be prepared for a short walk along the road if lots are full.
05
Best moderate workout
Marshall Canyon Trail
Foothills Above La Verne • Wooded Canyon And Ridgeline Trail • Best Moderate-To-Long Workout
A longer, gently climbing route through shady canyon sections and open ridges, popular with hikers, runners, and equestrians.
Starting near residential streets, Marshall Canyon quickly feels remote as it follows a year-round creek under oaks and sycamores, then climbs to broader views of the valley. You can turn around at any point or follow the trail higher for a more substantial workout, which makes it easy to tailor to your time and energy. Watch for mountain bikers on weekends, and enjoy the cooler microclimate in the canyon on hot days.