Top of the World Hike (Laguna Beach)
Hike Stats
- Total Distance
- 2.4 miles
- Time
- 2 Hours
- Total Climbing
- 890 feet
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Crowds
- Moderate
- Dogs
- Leashed
- Gear
- What I Use
- Weather
- Latest Report
There are big payoffs on the short but steep Top of the World hike in Laguna Beach. You'll climb through the coastal scrub of Aliso and Wood Canyon Wilderness Park until you reach the panoramic vista at Top of the World. From there, you'll have views from Catalina Island to Mt Baldy, and there's even a bench where you can soak it all in.
If you just want to visit Top of the World without breaking a sweat, you can simply drive to Alta Laguna Park and stroll over to it. But if you want to get a short hike in too, this guide will get you there.
Where Is the Top of the World Trailhead?
The parking situation for the Top of the World hike could be better. A combination of hikers blocking driveways, aggressive ticketing, and locals not wanting visitors disturbing their residential vibe means it's best to avoid parking at the trailhead. Your best move is to park in a metered spot or parking lot a few blocks away. Use this address and find a place to park as close to the trailhead street on Canyon Acres Drive: 725 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA
If you park in the lot at 725 Laguna Canyon, it's about a 15-minute walk to the trailhead. Use this address for the trailhead: 580 Canyon Acres Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Gear for the Hike
Don't try this hike in casual clothes. At the very least wear fitness gear with good footwear. If you can, wear hiking shoes or boots and bring trekking poles for the steep climb and descent. There is no shade on the hike and it can get very hot. Bring 1L of water and stay hydrated.
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: Offline maps on your phone with the Plus level
- Full November 2025 Gear List →
Top of the World Trail Maps
Overall the Canyon Acres Trail is wide and easy to follow. There are a few junctions to be aware of, but if you use this guide, you will fine.
Elevation Profile
3D Map
Top of the World Hike Directions
From here you just go back down the way you came. If you need to use a bathroom, pop over to Alta Laguna Park, just a minute or two from Top of the World.
Originally published June 3, 2020