01
Best close-to-town escape
El Dorado Nature Center & El Dorado East Regional Park
East Long Beach • Shaded Urban Nature Preserve • Local Favorite For Easy Loops
A mellow network of lakeside and creekside trails that feels surprisingly quiet given how close it is to Los Alamitos.
If you want something greener than a sidewalk without committing to a long drive, El Dorado is the go-to move. Stick to the dirt loops around the Nature Center for a more woodsy feel, or wander the larger park’s paved paths if you’re out with a stroller or bike. Weekday mornings are especially calm, with plenty of birdlife and easy parking near the main entrances.
02
Best relaxed river walk
West San Gabriel River Parkway Nature Trail
Along The San Gabriel River, North Of Los Alamitos • Linear Riverfront Path • Relaxed After-Work Stroll
A flat, straightforward path along the San Gabriel River that’s ideal for easy mileage and sunset walks.
This green strip follows the river corridor and gives you an uncomplicated out-and-back route where you can turn around whenever you like. Expect a mix of compact dirt and paved sections, light bike traffic, and big open skies rather than deep shade. It’s an easy choice when you just want to move your legs, clear your head, and not think too hard about navigation.
03
Best oceanfront walk
Long Beach Shoreline Bike Path
Downtown Long Beach Waterfront • Paved Coastal Path • Scenic City-Meets-Sea Option
A broad beachfront path where you can walk for miles with ocean views, passing piers, volleyball courts, and the harbor skyline.
Start near Alamitos Beach and head either toward Belmont Shore or the downtown marina for an easy, visually interesting outing. While the path is popular with cyclists and skaters, there’s enough width to claim your own lane if you stay alert and hug the pedestrian side. Go early for a quieter, cooler experience or time it for golden hour if you’re in it for the views more than the workout.
04
Best quick cardio climb
Signal Hill Trail & Hilltop Park
Signal Hill Above Long Beach • Hilltop Park Circuit • Best For Short But Steep Laps
A short network of paths that string together into a punchy little hike with big city and harbor views from the top.
The trails around Hilltop Park aren’t long, but the steady grades will get your heart rate up much faster than a flat beach walk. Make a loop by connecting the lower dirt paths with paved sections to the summit, then linger at the overlook to pick out Catalina, downtown Long Beach, and the ports on a clear day. It’s a smart pick when you only have an hour but still want to feel like you did something substantial.
05
Best weekend training route
Fullerton Loop Trail
Fullerton Foothills • Rolling Singletrack Loop • Longer Mixed-Terrain Outing
A popular 11–12 mile circuit of dirt paths, bike-friendly singletrack, and park connectors that feels surprisingly rural in stretches.
Though known with mountain bikers, the Fullerton Loop also works well for hikers who want more distance and varied terrain without driving to the mountains. Expect a patchwork of shady ravines, open ridgeline segments, and a few road crossings that remind you you’re still in the suburbs. Bring water, sun protection, and a map app or GPX track the first time; the many junctions can be confusing until you learn the route.