Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is a real gem in Southern California. Its 7000 acres of protected land are one of the last bastions of coastal wilderness. This park is what Orange County coast looked like before man started developing here. You'll enjoy pristine coastal sage scrub, ridges with panoramic views, wildlife including over 40 endangered species, and some unique ecology. The park has over 40 miles of trails, and this loop of 7.6 miles is what one park ranger once laid out for me as the "best of " loop, giving you a taste of everything the park has to offer.
In this Guide:
Video & Turn-by-Turn Directions for the "Best Of" Hike
The parking lot is usually open from 8am-5pm. Check the park's website for any closures or alerts.
Gear For the Hike
You can get away with fitness clothes here, but using proper hiking gear is a better bet. I bring 1.5 L of water and trekking poles for the steep sections. In the summer it can get very hot and exposed; it's usually warmer and drier than the nearby coast.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
You're mistaken if you don't think one person can make a difference. In 1968, Laguna Beach resident James Dilley formed Citizens for the Greenbelt, dedicated to creating a natural area around Laguna Beach. And although Dilley tragically died before the parks were a reality, Dilley's idea grew into a much bigger movement than he probably ever imagined. The greenbelt movement stopped development, encouraged residents to raise their taxes to buy parkland, and recruited the help of local, county, state, and national governments to form other parks, including Crystal Cove State Park. There was even a proposal to make this area a National Park.
So if you want to leave a legacy of wilderness and parks for your grandchildren, you can probably accomplish more than you can imagine. Just get the ball rolling.
Best of Laguna Coast Wilderness Hike Directions
This is a sensitive ecological environment. It's important to stay on the trail at all times. Off-Trail hiking is not permitted.
Need More Info?
Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.