Great moderate hike in the heart of Tustin, California.
With such a massive population center in Orange County, there are few green spaces in which to enjoy a hike. In North Tustin, you can find Peters Canyon Regional Park, where hikers can choose from a variety of trails.
If you park at the north end, you'll be subject to a parking fee, but the south end does offer some free street parking.
We started at the south end after a recent rainfall, so the trail wasn't in its best shape. With rain in the forecast however, the crowds were limited and there were stretched where it felt as if we had the trail all to ourselves.
After a few minutes of hiking, you'll intersect with the Mountains to the Sea Trail and hang a right. From there, you have a variety of options, but I recommend going up the Eucalyptus Trail, one of the few spots in the park where you can take shelter from the sun. This trail will wind upward until it connects to the E Ridge View Trail.
On the Ridge View Trail, you'll be on the boundary between the park and a residential area and be treated to sweeping views of Santa Ana mountains. The trail will go up and down on its way deeper into the park.
Eventually, you'll come to one of many junctions where you can shorten or lengthen your hike, but I recommend following the E Ridge View Trial to the top of a small hill, where you'll get views all the way to the ocean on a clear day. This is also the spot that is very visible from the 261 Toll Road.
As you continue along the Ridge Trail, you'll pass the reservoir on your left. As you continue to loop around, you'll see the north entrance of the park and see some of the burn area from the Canyon Fire 2. Many of the trees are black, but with new growth starting to spring from the trees. You're likely to spot ducks, squirrels, and birds all along the water's edge.
You'll eventually connect with the Lake View Trail and wrap around the small body of water. Again, you'll have some inclines and declines, but nothing too substantial. You'll then hug the west end of the park and pass some incredible homes as you continue along the trail.
In due time, you'll connect with the Peters Canyon Regional Trail that you began on and head back to where you parked. Here, I don't list a given mileage or time to complete because there are so many junctions that you can choose your own adventure.
Know Before You Go
The reservoir water levels will be contingent on the rainfall that year.
Be aware of your steps - this trail could be home to rattlesnakes
There is very limited shade on this trail, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Resources
Video
The video below shows an overview of the largest loop of the Peters Canyon Regional Park hike.
Location
Found in the foothills of Tustin, accessible from Jamboree Road. There is a pay-for-parking area along Canyon view Ave (north end of park) as well as free street parking along Peters Canyon Road.
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