8 Best Fall Hikes in Southern California That Are Worth the Trip

1. Pumpkin Rock in Norco

• Total Miles: 1.7 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 458 feet
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Time: 45 minutes
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
• Restrooms: Available near parking lot

Why It’s Great for Fall: The Pumpkin Rock hike is a short but rewarding trek that takes you to a giant pumpkin-shaped rock with fantastic views of the surrounding area. In the fall, the crisp weather and golden light make the hike particularly enjoyable, and the vibrant scenery adds to the festive spirit.

Haunted Lore: This trail doesn’t come with any ghost stories, but it’s a local favorite for a reason. The rock itself is painted to look like a jack o lantern, which gives it a fun, seasonal twist. It's the perfect hike for Halloween!

2. Ho Chi Minh Trail in La Jolla

• Total Miles: 0.65
• Elevation Gain: 280 feet
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Time: 20 minutes
• Dogs Allowed: Not permitted
• Restrooms Available: No

Why It’s Great for Fall: This trail provides stunning coastal views and is known for its scenic beauty. In the fall, the ocean breeze is particularly refreshing, and the reduced crowds mean you can enjoy the tranquility of the trail without the usual summer hustle.

Haunted Lore: The Ho Chi Minh Trail doesn’t have a reputation for hauntings, but its history adds a layer of intrigue. The trail was originally used during the Vietnam War era, and some locals claim to feel a sense of history and reflection as they walk along the rugged path.

3. Bonita Falls in Lytle Creek

• Total Miles: 1.28 miles 
• Elevation Gain: 450 feet
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Time: 45 minutes
• Dogs Allowed?: Yes, on a leash
• Restrooms Available: Available at Campground

Why It’s Great for Fall: The fall colors around Bonita Falls add a beautiful touch to this hike. The weather is cool enough for a comfortable hike, and the sound of the waterfall is especially soothing as the leaves change color.

Haunted Lore: This trail isn’t known for hauntings, but it has a serene and somewhat mystical feel, especially during the fall when the surroundings are bathed in golden light and the sounds of the waterfall create a peaceful ambiance. 

4. Bridge to Nowhere

• Total Miles: 10 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1300 feet
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
• Time: 5 to 6 hours
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
• Restrooms Available: Available near parking lot

Why It’s Great for Fall: The Bridge to Nowhere hike is a unique adventure that leads you to a bridge built during the Great Depression, abandoned and isolated. The fall season’s cooler temperatures make the challenging hike more pleasant, and the changing colors of the leaves add to the scenic beauty of the trail. For an all-day adventure like this, it’s smart to carry a high-capacity power bank that won’t quit before you get back.

Haunted Lore: The Bridge to Nowhere has some interesting stories associated with it. The bridge is often referred to as “haunted” due to its eerie isolation and the legends that local hikers tell about mysterious happenings. While these tales are more folklore than fact, they add an intriguing edge to the hike.

5. Black Star Canyon in Silverado

• Total Miles: 6.7 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 850 feet
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
• Time: 4 to 5 hours
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
• Restrooms Available: No

Why It’s Great for Fall: Black Star Canyon offers a mix of challenging terrain and scenic rewards. Fall is the perfect time to tackle this hike because the cooler weather makes the ascent more manageable, and the autumn landscape enhances the trail’s dramatic scenery.

Haunted Lore: Black Star Canyon is famous for its ghost stories and alleged paranormal activity. Local legends speak of tragic events and hauntings related to early 20th-century crimes. The canyon’s eerie atmosphere, especially in the fall, can make these stories feel all the more real. Let us know if you have any spooky stories from Black Star Canyon!

For dark, eerie hikes, check out our modular light accessories. 

6. Sturtevant Falls in Santa Anita Canyon 

Total Miles: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time: 2 hours
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Restrooms: Available at the trailhead

Why It’s Great for Fall: Nestled in the lush forest of Angeles National Forest, Sturtevant Falls offers a refreshing escape. The cooler autumn weather makes the shaded canyon trail even more inviting, and seasonal rainfall often brings the 50-foot waterfall to life. Rustic cabins along the route add a touch of history, making this a classic fall hike.

7. Aspen Grove Trail in San Bernardino National Forest  

Total Miles: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Restrooms: Limited facilities nearby

Why It’s Great for Fall: Aspen Grove is one of the few places in Southern California where you can see true golden fall foliage. The trail winds through a beautiful grove of quaking aspens that glow bright yellow in October. The crisp air and vibrant leaves make it feel like you’ve stepped into another state, offering a rare seasonal experience close to home.

8. Castle Rock Trail        

Total Miles: 2.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 820 feet
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
Restrooms: Located in nearby Big Bear Lake facilities

Why It’s Great for Fall: Overlooking Big Bear Lake, Castle Rock Trail delivers sweeping views framed by oak and pine trees bursting with fall colors. The climb is steady but manageable, making it a rewarding trek for families and casual hikers. Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage make autumn the best time to take in the vistas from the rock’s summit.