Whiting Ranch Tunnel

Hike the easy 4.4-mile Aliso Creek Riding and Hiking Trail in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, gaining 401 feet in under 2 hours.

The Aliso Creek Riding and Hiking Trail offers a long, diverse journey through Orange County's varied landscapes. You'll traverse compacted soil, asphalt, and sandy sections, winding through woodlands, open fields, and alongside the tranquil Aliso Creek. The route provides a mix of scenery, from urban-adjacent parks to the rugged green canyon hills of Wood Canyon, where you might even catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.

This difficult 16.4-mile (26.4 km) hike involves 1209 feet (368 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes. While some sections are relatively flat, be ready for short, steep grades. The trail is dog-friendly, requiring leashes, and offers well-maintained rest areas with water, making it a good choice for a long day out.

The Aliso Creek trail is a vital connector in the region, linking multiple schools, parks, and even providing access to Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park. Its multi-use nature means you'll share the path with cyclists and equestrians, and traveling north to south offers a pleasant, gradual downhill journey towards the coast.