The best walks and hikes around Montclair

The Gale Mountain Loop offers a varied and engaging hiking experience through the Claremont foothills. You'll traverse everything from steep single track to wider dirt fire roads and even some paved sections, with the landscape shifting dramatically from exposed viewpoints to pleasant, shaded groves in Johnson's Pasture. The highlight for many hikers is the expansive views of Claremont, the Inland Empire, and the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, including Ontario Peak and Cucamonga Peak, making it a popular route for scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with free parking available at the Indian Hill Boulevard lot. The trail can also be accessed from the nearby Thompson Creek Trail. This easy 3.8-mile (6.2 km) loop involves 693 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete, making it a manageable outing. It's a dog-friendly route, so feel free to bring your canine companion.

Compared to the more frequented Claremont Loop, the Gale Mountain Loop is often less crowded and many consider it to be prettier, offering a more serene experience. Despite its "easy" rating, be prepared for a very steep and challenging initial ascent on Gale Motorway, which adds a good workout to the hike. This trail is a local favorite for its ability to deliver diverse terrain and stunning mountain views within a relatively short distance.

Embark on the Gale Mountain Loop, a moderate hike spanning 4.4 miles (7.0 km) with an elevation gain of 827 feet (252 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 8 minutes. You will encounter a varied landscape, from challenging steep single tracks to wider dirt fire roads and even some paved sections. As you climb, look forward to expansive views across Claremont and the Inland Empire. The route offers clear vistas of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, including Ontario Peak and Cucamonga Peak, from several viewpoints. You will also pass through the pleasant, shaded groves of Johnson's Pasture, providing a nice contrast to the more open areas.

Accessing the Gale Mountain Loop is straightforward, with free parking available at the lot on Indian Hill Boulevard. You can also easily reach the trail from the nearby Thompson Creek Trail, offering another convenient entry point. This route welcomes your canine companions, making it a great option if you want to bring your dog along for the adventure. Plan your visit to enjoy the varied terrain and scenic overlooks.

This popular trail in Claremont Hills Wilderness Park is known for offering a rewarding challenge with its diverse terrain. It provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region, with its unique mix of open vistas and shaded sections. The clear views of the San Gabriel Mountains are a highlight, connecting you to the broader mountain landscape. It is a great choice for a substantial outing that combines exercise with scenic rewards.

The Cobal Canyon Loop offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 7.4 miles (11.9 km) with a total elevation gain of 1546 feet (471 metres). You can expect diverse terrain, from wide fire roads to shaded sections under coast live oaks. As you climb, you will be rewarded with panoramic views stretching from Mount San Antonio to distant peaks like San Jacinto Peak and the Santa Ana Mountains. Look for the shade ramada atop a knoll; from there, on clear days, you might even spot Santa Catalina Island. This route typically takes about 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Cobal Canyon Loop is quite popular, especially on weekends, so you might encounter crowds. The trail is suitable for hikers, runners, and those with leashed dogs. Some parts involve steady climbs on sunny, exposed slopes, so it is wise to bring plenty of water and sun protection. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing this trail within Claremont Hills Wilderness Park.

This trail is particularly notable for its vibrant display of wildflowers and lush green landscape in April, making it an ideal time for a visit. The varied environment, from open fire roads to shaded groves, provides a dynamic outdoor experience. The opportunity to see such wide-ranging views, including distant islands, truly sets this route apart in the region.

Hike the Potato Mountain Trail from Claremont Wilderness Park, a moderate 4.4-mile route with panoramic views and a unique summit tradition.