01
Best overall pick
Chantry Flats Truck Trail
Chantry Flats Above Arcadia • Shaded Canyon-To-Ridge Mountain Trail • Classic Local Crowd-Pleaser
A scenic climb from a historic canyon into big views that feels wild yet stays close to town.
Starting in the cool, oak-lined depths of Santa Anita Canyon, this route quickly trades creekside shade for open slopes and long views back toward the foothills. You get a little bit of everything—historic trail feel, glimpses of old cabins, and broad vistas as you gain the ridge. Go early on weekends if you want easier parking and a quieter start.
02
High-country favorite
Mount Hawkins Trail
High Country Near Crystal Lake • High-Elevation Summit And Ridge Hike • Best For Summit Seekers And Big Views
A lofty ridge walk with airy drop-offs and sweeping looks across the San Gabriel high country.
Once you’re on the Hawkins ridge, the city drops away and it’s all mountains, sky, and wind-carved pines. The grades are steady rather than punishing, but the elevation keeps things honest, so bring layers and plenty of water. On clear days you can see deep into the range in both directions, making this a standout choice when you want a true mountain day close to Pierpoint.
03
Under-the-radar route
Upper Shake Trail
North Slope Of Angeles National Forest • Remote-Feeling Singletrack Through Chaparral • Quietest Escape From The Freeway Corridor
A lightly traveled path that trades crowds for long stretches of solitude and hillside views.
Upper Shake ducks away from the busy I‑5 corridor surprisingly fast, climbing into scrubby slopes and pockets of recovering forest. The tread can be narrow and a bit rough in places, which adds to the backcountry feel without demanding technical skills. It’s a good pick when you want to stretch your legs after a drive or sneak in a peaceful evening hike without heading all the way to the high country.
04
Most approachable outing
Tapo Canyon Trail
Foothills Northeast Of Simi Valley • Rolling Oak-And-Grassland Canyon Trail • Best Mellow Half-Day Hike
Gentle grades and open terrain make this a forgiving loop with just enough elevation to feel like a real hike.
Tapo Canyon is all about warm light, golden hills, and big sky rather than dramatic peaks. The trail winds through low ridges and broad draws, with scattered oaks offering pockets of shade and seasonal wildflowers after wet winters. It’s an easy recommendation for mixed-ability groups or anyone easing into local hiking and wanting something scenic without a huge effort.
05
Scenic ridge ramble
Pioneer Trail
Ridgetop Country North Of Pierpoint • Undulating Ridge And Hillside Singletrack • Best For Late-Day And Sunset Views
A moderate ridge route with open slopes that light up in the late afternoon and wide views in most directions.
Pioneer Trail strings together a series of gentle climbs and descents along a mostly open ridgeline, so the scenery unfolds with every turn. With minimal tree cover, it can be hot mid-day, but the payoff is excellent late light and long sightlines to nearby ranges. Time it for golden hour and you’ll see why locals keep this one in their regular rotation.