The best walks and hikes around West Covina

The Schabarum Trail offers a dynamic hiking experience, transitioning from wide, easy paths to more challenging singletrack with significant grades. You'll wind through forested areas that provide welcome shade, then emerge to sweeping vistas of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Rowland Heights area. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and various wildlife, though be aware that rattlesnakes and gophersnakes are known to inhabit the area.

Planning your visit to the Schabarum Trail is straightforward, as it's conveniently located within Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park. The park is easily accessible, making it a great choice for a quick nature fix. Parking is available on-site, but it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, as the area is popular. Note that the trail can become quite muddy after rainfall, so check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

This trail is part of a larger network, connecting to routes like the Powder Canyon Loop and the extensive Schabarum-Skyline Trail, which links communities from Covina to Whittier. Its accessibility "in the middle of the city" makes it a unique urban oasis, offering a diverse range of scenery from natural landscapes to distant views of the Hsa Lai temple and even power lines closer to the peak. It's a moderate 4.3-mile (7.0 km) hike with 567 feet (173 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just over 2 hours.

The Schabarum, Purple Sage, and Powder Canyon Loop Trail offers a dynamic hiking experience, transitioning from manicured park spaces to wilder canyon terrain. You'll navigate rolling hills, some covered in fresh spring grass, and pass through woodland areas with native oaks, while also encountering more exposed sections. From viewpoints like the one overlooking Hacienda Heights, you can gaze north towards the San Gabriel Mountains, and sometimes even spot the Pacific Ocean in the distance.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) loop involves 783 feet (239 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes. The first mile includes a significant climb, so be prepared for a workout. Parking is generally available at Schabarum Regional Park, and starting early is recommended, especially on hot days, to enjoy the cooler temperatures and avoid crowded sections.

Beyond the scenic views, this trail is notable for connecting Schabarum Regional Park and Powder Canyon, an area undergoing habitat restoration that boasts a significant population of southern California black walnut trees. The canyon also holds historical significance, possibly used by Native Americans and the Portola Expedition, and was named for explosive powder tested there over a century ago. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like coyotes and bobcats.

The Michael D. Antonovich Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a shaded oak canyon alongside the babbling Walnut Creek. You'll find yourself crossing the creek up to 15 times, a unique feature that adds to the trail's charm, especially with the chance to spot ducks, squirrels, and herons. Despite its proximity to busy urban areas, the dense canopy and year-round water flow create a surprising sense of seclusion, making it feel like a true hidden gem.

This moderate 5.8-mile (9.4 km) hike, with only 350 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely outing, taking about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. It's easily accessible from the 57 Freeway in San Dimas, and while the initial downhill section can be a bit steep, the rest of the trail is generally level. Be ready for potentially wet feet at the creek crossings, and consider bringing trekking poles for balance.

Known for its abundant shade, the Michael D. Antonovich Trail is an excellent choice for family-friendly hikes, even on warmer days. Its multi-use nature means you might encounter equestrians, adding to the trail's character. The constant presence of Walnut Creek, flowing year-round, ensures a vibrant natural environment, complete with wildflowers and the soothing sounds of rushing water.

The Santa Fe Dam Loop offers an easy 4.8-mile (7.8 km) hike with a gentle 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 59 minutes. You'll experience a diverse landscape, from paved sections to wilder dirt paths winding through chaparral and sandy stretches. Enjoy continuous views of the 70-acre lake, often with the impressive San Gabriel Mountains, including Mount Baldy, as a backdrop. Keep an eye out for abundant birdlife and native plants, and don't miss the sandy beach area dotted with palm trees, adding a unique Southern California vibe to your walk.

Planning your visit to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is straightforward, with ample parking available. The trail is dog-friendly, though your leashed companion won't be able to join you on the Nature Center's interpretive trail. For the best experience, consider arriving early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and increased chances of spotting wildlife. The park also features a Nature Center, a swim beach, and a water play area during the summer, making it a great destination for a full day out.

Originally developed for flood control by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is often called a "hidden jewel of Southern California" due to its unique habitat and diverse plant community. The loop connects to the longer San Gabriel River Trail, offering options for extended adventures. This area serves as a "Trails Compass" for eastern Los Angeles County, providing a blend of manicured park landscapes and untamed natural sections, and even hosts the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in spring.

The Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak offers a surprisingly diverse urban hike, transitioning from single track to dirt roads with switchbacks and shaded groves. You'll find unique features like a distinctive teepee early on, and pass a ranch-style house with grazing horses. The real payoff comes at Buzzard Peak, the highest point in the San Jose Hills, where you're treated to commanding 360-degree panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) route, with 618 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in just over an hour, making it a perfect quick escape.

Planning your visit is straightforward; parking is available along Grand Avenue, just a short walk from the trailhead. There's no permit required, and if you're wondering "Is Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak dog friendly?" the answer is yes, so feel free to bring your canine companion. For the best views, pick a clear day, and consider going in the morning or late afternoon. This trail is an excellent choice for a quick outing, even suitable for a "lunchbagging" hike.

What makes the Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak truly stand out is its accessibility as an urban hike combined with its extensive scenic rewards. The area is known for staying greener longer into the year compared to other nearby open spaces, offering a refreshing landscape. It also connects to the broader Schabarum Skyline Trail, providing options for longer adventures if you wish to explore further. It's a true hidden gem among the best hiking trails near Buzzard Peak.