Where is Limestone Canyon Regional Park located?

Limestone Canyon Regional Park is located in Orange County, California, in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains.

How do I access Limestone Canyon Regional Park?

Access to the park requires registration for an open event through LetsGoOutside.org. There are options for both open and docent-led hikes.

What are the highlights of hiking to The Sinks?

The Sinks, often referred to as 'the little Grand Canyon of Orange County', is a geological feature formed by erosion, offering panoramic views from designated viewing areas.

What should I bring for a hike in Limestone Canyon?

It is recommended to bring ample water, suitable hiking shoes, and appropriate gear for weather conditions. The website provides specific recommendations based on selected activities.

PLAY VIDEO

Limestone Canyon Regional Park - The Sinks

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated January 18, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 9 miles
Time: 3-4 Hours
Total Climbing: 850 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowds: Quiet
Dogs: No Dogs
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

Limestone Canyon Regional Park is an incredibly beautiful area to hike, but it's also home to a famous area called 'The Sinks,' also known as 'the little Grand Canyon of Orange County.' Limestone Canyon is not always open to the public, but this easy trail guide will show you how to visit and see The Sinks for yourself.

Where is Limestone Canyon Regional Park?

Limestone Canyon Place Map — Limestone Canyon Regional Park is located in Orange County, CA, in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains.

Before visiting Limestone Canyon Regional Park, you must register for an open event.

Visit LetsGoOutside.org
Go to "Activities" and filter by "Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve"
Find a match for the day that you want to visit. There are two types of hikes.
- Open hikes allow you to pick any open trails you'd like and hike freely.
- Docent-led hikes are traditional group hikes led by an expert. These hikes are great because you'll usually get a guided tour along the way.
Note that the hikes have difficulty ratings; you should find one that matches your level.
Hikes can have different starting areas as well. The website has a downloadable map of the current trails and starting areas.

Limestone Canyon Regional Park Ranger Display — You'll be able to see lots more on a docent-led group hike. They point out animals, plant species, fossils, bones, and anything else interesting. They'll also be there to answer any questions.

Gear Recommendations

When you pick your activity from the website, it will list how much water to bring, what type of shoes to wear, etc. You'll generally want hiking gear or fitness clothing and plenty of water. Summers and falls can be hot, while winter and spring can be lush and cool.

Essentials I’m Using Now

Garmin inReach Mini 2: Reliable SOS Everywhere on Earth
Sawyer + CNOC Water Filter: Easy & Reliable Safe Water
Nitecore NU25 Headlamp: Running late? Get home safe
Altra Olympus 275: Favorite trail shoes right now, no blisters and very comfy.
AllTrails Plus (30% off): Offline maps on your phone with the Plus level
Full December 2025 Gear List →

The Sinks Trail Map

Limestone Canyon Trail Sign — Limestone Canyon is well-marked, with trail signs at all the trail junctions.

If you go on a general open day, I recommend hiking to The Sinks, aka the Mini-Grand Canyon, the main attraction. This guide has directions for that hike. There are many more trails and you could include others to choose your own adventure as well.

Click to activate map

Print Map, Work With It Yourself

View Hike on CalTopo

Bring the Guide to Any GPS

Download the GPX File

Limestone Canyon Trail Closed — Under certain circumstances, some trails can closed. Please print the map at home or save it to your phone before leaving. Cell reception in the park is spotty.

The Sinks Hike Directions

Limestone Canyon Historic — This area was used for cattle grazing from the 1800s until 2010 when it was turned into a park. This photo, with Saddleback Mountain in the background, is from 1892.

The Sinks Hike Directions 4 — At about 2.2 miles, make the left onto the Raptor Trail and do a short climb.

Limestone Canyon Rehab — From the climb, there are nice views into Limestone Canyon. The area is actively being restored to its native habitat after being grazed by cattle for over 100 years.

The Sinks Hike Directions 5 — When you reach the junction with Limestone Ridge Trail, make the right.

The Sinks Hike Directions 6 — The Limestone Ridge Trail offers epic views into Limestone Canyon and into the Santa Ana Mountains.

The Sinks Hike Directions 7 — Avoid any side trails and stay straight on Limestone Ridge.

The Sinks Hike Directions 8 — At around 4 miles you'll get views into The Sinks on your right.

The Sinks Hike Directions 9 — And at about 4.4 miles, look for the trail on the right up to the East Sinks Viewing Area.

The Sinks Hike Directions 1 — Once on the platform, you'll have panoramic views of The Sinks.

Limestone Canyon Regional Park The Sinks Featured — The Sinks were formed by erosion and are between 20-40 million years old.