Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
United States
California
Los Angeles County

Covina

The best walks and hikes around Covina

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 10, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan hiking around Covina, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and parks, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best hikes in Covina, saving you the guesswork.

Hiking around Covina means embracing a landscape defined by rolling hills, regional parks, and the impressive foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll find everything from gentle strolls around reservoirs to more demanding ascents into the hills. The good news is that Covina's pleasant climate means you can enjoy these outdoor adventures year-round, making it easy to plan your visit whenever suits you.

For a fantastic introduction to the area, we'd start with the Michael D. Antonovich Trail, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.4 km) route that offers scenic views and is a top favorite among local hikers. If you're looking for something more challenging and a real workout, the Bonelli Trail is a difficult 15.7 miles (25.3 km) loop that takes you through Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park and around Puddingstone Reservoir, offering a full day out. With more than 280 hikers having already explored Covina with komoot, you're in good company. Dive in and discover your next favorite trail!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Bonelli Park Loop Trail
  2. 2

    Schabarum Trail
  3. 3

    Michael D. Antonovich Trail

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Bonelli Park Loop Trail

10.8 km

80 m

Moderate

Schabarum Trail

6.98 km

170 m

Moderate

Michael D. Antonovich Trail

9.40 km

110 m

Moderate

Bonelli Trail

25.3 km

460 m

Hard

Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop

3.32 km

70 m

Easy

Bonelli Park Loop

7.44 km

110 m

Moderate

Santa Fe Dam Loop

7.78 km

30 m

Easy

Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak

3.42 km

190 m

Easy

Galster Wilderness Park Loop

1.54 km

60 m

Easy

Tree Line Trail

1.55 km

30 m

Easy

Sign up to see all 10 routes

Sign up for free

1.

Bonelli Park Loop Trail

10.8km

02:49

80m

80m

The Bonelli Park Loop Trail offers a refreshing escape, circling the scenic Puddingstone Reservoir with continuous water views. You'll experience a mix of single track, fire roads, and paved sections, winding through rolling hills that burst with wild mustard in season. Keep an eye out for desert cottontails and various waterfowl, especially during quieter times of day. It's a moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) hike with a gentle 271 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 48 minutes, making it a great option for a relaxed outing.

For easy access, you can begin your journey from multiple points around the park; Brackett Field often provides free parking, while the South Shore Swim Beach offers additional facilities. The trail is dog-friendly, just remember to keep your furry friend on a leash. Consider an early start to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends, and to enjoy the cooler temperatures.

This trail stands out for its accessibility within a metropolitan area, providing a genuine sense of nature without a long drive. It's a popular choice for families and beginners, but also offers more challenging sections in the foothills for those seeking a bit more exertion. The constant views of Puddingstone Reservoir and the distant San Gabriel Mountains make it a visually rewarding experience.

View route

Save

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

2.

Schabarum Trail

6.98km

02:01

170m

180m

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.

View route

3.

Michael D. Antonovich Trail

9.40km

02:32

110m

150m

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.

View route

guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

4.

Bonelli Trail

25.3km

07:01

460m

460m

The Bonelli Trail offers a diverse hiking experience, looping around the 250-acre Puddingstone Reservoir with continuous water views and glimpses of the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll traverse a mix of single track, fire roads, and asphalt, passing through areas of wild mustard and under the shade of coast live oak trees. This difficult 15.7-mile (25.3 km) route involves 1512 feet (461 metres) of elevation gain, providing a substantial workout that typically takes around 7 hours.

Planning your Bonelli Trail hiking adventure is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. You can start from various points around the loop, with ample parking available throughout the park. Restrooms and picnic areas are conveniently located, and dogs are welcome on leash, making it a flexible choice for a long day out.

What makes the Bonelli Trail notable is its accessibility within a metropolitan area, offering a sense of escape despite its urban proximity. It's a multi-use path popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, especially vibrant in spring when wildflowers bloom. The park also provides numerous other recreational opportunities, including boating on Puddingstone Reservoir.

View route

5.

Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop

3.32km

00:57

70m

80m

The Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop offers a delightful mix of shaded canyon paths and open ridge views, making it a popular choice for a quick nature fix in Glendora. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dirt paths under the canopy of live oaks and sycamores to a wide dirt road along the backbone, where panoramic 360-degree vistas of the city unfold. Keep an eye out for glistening hilltops adorned with cacti and, in spring, a scattering of wildflowers.

This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike, with a manageable 245 feet (75 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 56 minutes to complete. It's a multi-use trail, so you might share the path with bicyclists and equestrians. For the best experience, visit during the cooler months of winter or early spring when the hills are vibrant green and the air is clear, or tackle it at daybreak during summer to beat the heat.

Nestled within the South Hills Wilderness Park, this loop is a true "island" of nature within the urban sprawl, easily accessible directly from the street. It's a fantastic option for a beginner hike or a family outing, offering a chance to reach "Summit 1212" for decent views, marked by a cairn and survey benchmarks. The trail system provides a great network of paths for exercise and a refreshing dose of the outdoors.

View route

6.

Bonelli Park Loop

7.44km

02:01

110m

100m

The Bonelli Park Loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, winding around the picturesque Puddingstone Reservoir with the towering San Gabriel Mountains as a constant backdrop. You'll encounter a mix of single track, fire roads, and paved sections, traversing rolling hills and shaded creek areas. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) hike, with 351 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 1 minute, making it an accessible adventure for many.

Planning your visit is easy, as the trail is accessible from multiple points. Free parking is available near Brackett Airport, or you can choose paid parking within Bonelli Park for closer access to the trailhead. It's a popular spot, so arriving earlier in the day can help secure a good parking spot, especially on weekends. The park is family-friendly, and dogs are welcome on leash.

What makes this trail stand out is its blend of natural beauty and recreational variety so close to the city. Beyond hiking, the park is a hub for boating, kayaking, and mountain biking, creating a lively outdoor atmosphere. You might even spot desert cottontails or various waterfowl, adding to the natural charm of this urban oasis.

View route

7.

Santa Fe Dam Loop

7.78km

01:59

30m

20m

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.

View route

8.

Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak

3.42km

01:03

190m

20m

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.

View route

9.

Galster Wilderness Park Loop

1.54km

00:29

60m

60m

The Galster Wilderness Park Loop offers a delightful natural escape within West Covina, guiding you through a diverse landscape of dense forests and coastal sage scrub. You'll discover rare Southern California black walnut woodlands, providing a lush, shaded environment, and enjoy panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley from several vantage points. This easy 1.0-mile (1.5 km) hike, with a modest 187 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature for about 29 minutes.

Planning your visit to Galster Wilderness Park is straightforward, as it's a highly accessible spot for a quick outdoor adventure. The park is well-suited for families and dog owners, with leashed pets welcome on the trails. Parking is available on-site, making it easy to start your hike, and its short duration means you can comfortably fit it into any part of your day.

What truly sets Galster Wilderness Park apart is its role as a significant natural oasis amidst an urban setting, preserving one of the last remaining communities of native Southern California black walnut trees. Beyond its ecological value, the park also offers educational opportunities with a nature center and informational signs about local flora and fauna, making it more than just a place for a walk.

View route

10.

Tree Line Trail

1.55km

00:26

30m

20m

The Tree Line Trail in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park offers a delightful, shaded escape, perfect for a quick dose of nature. Despite its name, you won't be hiking above the treeline here; instead, you'll enjoy a well-maintained path with picturesque views and plenty of tree cover. It's a pleasant, easy route that feels more like a leisurely stroll through a green oasis than a strenuous climb, making it ideal for unwinding.

This accessible trail is a popular choice for many, including families and those with leashed dogs. With a distance of 1.0 mile (1.6 km) and a gentle elevation gain of 104 feet (32 metres), you can comfortably complete it in about 25 minutes. Parking is readily available within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, and no special permits are needed, so you can easily pop in for a spontaneous walk. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for the most comfortable temperatures.

What makes the Tree Line Trail stand out is its versatility within the larger regional park setting. It's not just for hikers; you'll share the path with mountain bikers and horseback riders, adding to the dynamic atmosphere. The trail provides a great opportunity for moderate exercise without being overly challenging, making it a solid option for beginners or anyone seeking a quick, refreshing outdoor activity in San Dimas.

View route

Sign up for free to see 5 more hikes around Covina.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

See every route on the map

Tips from the Community

Zachary
June 27, 2025, Puddingstone Dam

You can cycle across the top of the dam, which was constructed in 1928 to help control flooding in the region. It stands at 147 feet high, and today supports a myriad of outdoor recreation activities on the reservoir.

0

0

Great view of the Puddingstone Reservoir, a 250-acre man-made body of water. There is a road that runs along the perimeter of the reservoir and there is a spot to pull off the road to get a close up view of the water.

0

0

This reservoir plays several roles, such as providing water for agriculture, but also serving as a basin where you can swim, fish, and even sail.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available around Covina?

Covina and its surrounding areas offer a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 40 routes recorded on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, including 24 easy, 14 moderate, and 3 difficult options.

Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Covina?

Yes, Covina features several easy trails suitable for families. The Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop is an easy 2.1-mile path that takes about an hour to complete. Another great option is the Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak, also 2.1 miles, offering 360-degree views.

What kind of views can I expect on hikes near Covina?

Many trails around Covina offer expansive views. From the foothills, you can often see the San Gabriel Mountains, the San Gabriel Valley, and on clear days, even the Pacific Ocean. Trails like the Magnolia Trail to Buzzard Peak are specifically known for their panoramic vistas.

Are there any circular hiking routes in the Covina area?

Yes, the region offers several loop trails. A notable one is the Alosta Canyon and South Hills Backbone Loop, which provides a pleasant, easy circular walk. The Bonelli Trail, while longer, also forms a loop around Puddingstone Reservoir.

What are some natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking near Covina?

While hiking, you can explore various natural features. The Bonelli Trail takes you around Puddingstone Reservoir, offering scenic views like the View of Puddingstone Reservoir. You might also encounter wildlife and diverse vegetation in areas like the Mt. San Antonio Wildlife Sanctuary.

Are there any trails with waterfalls near Covina?

While not directly within Covina, the broader Angeles National Forest, accessible from the area, features attractions like Sturtevant Falls. This 50-foot waterfall is a popular destination for hikers seeking scenic water features.

What do other hikers say about the trails around Covina?

The hiking routes in Covina are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Over 280 hikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the well-maintained paths and diverse landscapes.

What is the best time of year to hike in Covina?

Covina generally offers good hiking conditions year-round due to its mild Southern California climate. However, spring and fall often provide the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be hot, especially on exposed trails, so early morning hikes are recommended. Winter hikes are also possible, though higher elevations in the San Gabriel Mountains may experience colder temperatures or occasional snow.

Are there any long-distance or challenging hikes near Covina?

For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Bonelli Trail is a difficult 15.7-mile route that loops through Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park and around Puddingstone Reservoir, typically taking over 7 hours to complete. The San Gabriel Mountains also offer more strenuous trails with significant elevation gains.

What types of landscapes will I encounter on hikes around Covina?

Hiking around Covina offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find rolling hills, regional parks, and the foothills of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains. The terrain varies from well-maintained paths along creek beds to more rugged mountain trails, featuring coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands.

Are there any trails that follow a creek or riverbed?

Yes, the Antonovich Trail is a moderate 4.8-mile path that follows a creek bed, offering a pleasant and generally well-maintained hiking experience. The nearby Walnut Creek Community Regional Park also features trails that follow a creek.

Can I find trails with good access to parking in the Covina area?

Many regional parks and trailheads around Covina, such as Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park and Walnut Creek Community Regional Park, offer designated parking areas for hikers. It's always advisable to check specific trailhead information for parking availability and any potential fees.

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

Los AngelesSan Gabriel MountainsAngeles National ForestSan Gabriel Mountains National MonumentSanta Monica MountainsSanta Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaPasadenaTopanga State ParkLong BeachSanta ClaritaVincentMalibuWest CovinaCalabasasNorwalkDowneyBradburyErnest E. Debs Regional ParkEast Los AngelesSan DimasLa MiradaFond Wilderness PreserveRancho Palos VerdesClaremontTopangaGlendaleDiamond BarMichael D. Antonovich Regional Park At Joughin RanchLancasterLomitaMonroviaStetson Ranch ParkEast PasadenaAltadenaAgua DulceActonElizabeth LakeEast WhittierSanta Fe SpringsMalibu Creek State ParkVerdugo Mountains Open Space PreserveUniversité Pepperdine Stevenson RanchRosemeadSouth PasadenaSan GabrielLakewoodBellflowerMaywoodLadyface Mountain Open SpaceLeona ValleyView Park-Windsor HillsGreen ValleyPalmdaleBriar Summit Open Space PreserveAlhambraLa Crescenta-MontroseSan FernandoSouth San GabrielBaldwin ParkCarsonCitrusWest CarsonCerritosRolling HillsPomonaCommercePalos Verdes EstatesCharter OakBurbankVernonLadera HeightsWalnutRio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational AreaLake HughesWestlake VillageHidden HillsLa Cañada FlintridgeAgoura HillsSan PasqualPico RiveraMontebelloAvocado HeightsSierra MadreRolling Hills EstatesLeo Carrillo State ParkTorranceArtesiaSanta MonicaAvalonWestmontParamountAntonovich Open Space PreserveTemple CityLawndaleWhittierCharmlee Wilderness ParkIrwindaleMonterey ParkHawaiian GardensAzusaGardenaEl SegundoWest Puente ValleyLa VerneEl MonteGlendoraWest AthensSouth San Jose HillsSouth Hills Wilderness AreaWest Whittier-Los NietosLa Habra HeightsSan MarinoHuntington ParkSouth El MonteBell GardensCastaicArcadiaDuarteWest Rancho DominguezClaremont Hills Wilderness ParkMayflower VillageNorth El MonteSouth Monrovia IslandWestridge-Canyonback Wilderness ParkManhattan BeachInglewoodRose HillsSouth WhittierRedondo BeachAlondra ParkSouth GateEast San GabrielBeverly HillsCulver CityWest HollywoodSignal HillLa PuenteFlorence-GrahamQuartz HillIndustryValindaRowland HeightsDel AireComptonEast ComptonBellWalnut ParkHacienda HeightsHawthorneSaint Francis Dam National MonumentHermosa BeachLennoxVal VerdeHasley CanyonMarina Del ReyArthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park
background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy