3 Best Hiking Trails in Santa Ana, CA

“Black Star Canyon Trail has a total length of 6.7 miles and is generally considered an easy trail route. The elevation gain of the trail is 846 feet. The trail is an out-and-back type. The falls drain just three square kilometers of land, so there is usually high flow only during the rainy season, and the trail is 6.5 miles round trip. The trail offers a wide array of opportunities for visitors to explore the beautiful variety of wildflowers and interesting rock formations in the nearby mountains. Black Star Canyon Trail also offers numerous facilities, including kid-friendly hikes and pet-friendly areas.”

“Fullerton Loop includes an 11.2-mile-long trail and provides a breathtaking view in a scenic environment. The trail flows in a clockwise direction and includes a bridle path for horses, a portion that passes a railroad, for adventure seekers, and scenic views. The elevation gain of the trail is 885 feet, and it is a loop-type trail. This is generally considered an easy to moderately challenging trail route. The estimated time to complete the entire loop is about 4 hours and 7 minutes. The trail offers a mix of uphill and downhill sections and is a perfect ride after work. Fullerton Loop also features facilities like a wheelchair-accessible parking lot for more comfort. This trail is located 17 minutes from Santa Ana.”

“Santiago Park is an elegant 23-acre green space with ecosystems including oak woodlands, vernal lakes, riparian zones, and coastal sage scrub. The trail's total length is 10.1 miles, with an elevation gain of 597 ft. This is a point-to-point type of trail. The City of Santa Ana Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency operates the park. The trail also features an archery range, a lawn bowling facility, tennis courts, a baseball field, and playground equipment. Santiago Park has an exhibition hall showcasing local wetlands, wildlife, and cultural history. Public restrooms, picnic tables, a baseball field, tennis courts, and wheelchair accessible parking lot facilities are also available.”