Distance
1.8 Miles
Time
45 min
Difficulty
Easy
Season
All Year
Elevation Gain
152 Ft
- Trail type: Loop
- Restrooms: Yes, in the parking lot
- Dogs: Yes, on a leash
Didn’t have enough time to get outside this weekend? Checkout this hike, especially if you live in or near Orange County!
Quail Hill Trail, sometimes referred to as Quail Loop Trail, is a very easy hike for the entire family to enjoy. It’s located in the city of Irvine and nestled between golden hills adjacent to the 405 fwy. The trail features a vista point of Santiago Peak, the tallest peak in the Santa Ana Mountains, a seasonal pond, and interpretative audio guides.
Quail Hill Trail Map
Quail Hill Trail Address & Directions
Click the link to be redirected to the trailhead on Google Maps.
34 Shady Canyon Dr, Irvine, CA 92603
More Orange County hikes to check out!
- Top of the World Hike in Laguna Beach
- Car Wreck Trail: Mysterious Abandoned Car
- Dripping Cave Trail: Secret Hideout for Robbers in 1800’s
Quail Hill Trail
Your speedy adventure begins in a shady parking lot and in between two Sycamore trees.
Remember to keep an eye for wildlife like rattlesnakes, hares, quails, and roadrunners, and dial 949-743-5943 to listen to the interpretive audio messages while on the trail.
Almost from the beginning you’ll have amazing views of Old Saddleback, the nickname for the two highest peaks in the Santa Ana Mountains, Modjeska and Santiago, the latter being the tallest.
The entirety of the trail consists of a dirt road. Checkout that skyline in the back.
Read More: 11 Best Hikes in SoCal
Although the 405 fwy runs parallel to part of the loop, you may not even notice it, as you’re surrounded by beautiful golden hills.
A section on the Northside of the trail is actually a seasonal pond! Unfortunately, it was dry when I visited, but I’ll be going back as soon as we get some rain.
Read More: Top 5 Hiking Trails in LA
If you need a quick nature getaway, plan a visit to Quail Hill Trail, especially during the sunset. You won’t regret it!
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