Explore Nature Walks & Hikes Near Disneyland in Anaheim
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Explore the natural beauty near Disneyland with a guided nature walk or hike led by Barefoot Joel, a professional naturalist. These tours take you through some of the most diverse and scenic spots within an hour's drive, offering opportunities to see waterfalls, canyons, tide pools, and mountain forests.
Whether you're interested in easy strolls or challenging adventures, there's a tour suited for all ages and fitness levels. Activities include birding, wildlife viewing, foraging, barefooting, and rock scrambling. Along the way, you'll encounter seasonal wildflowers, panoramic views, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, coyotes, lizards, and birds.
Each experience is private, with knowledgeable guides who will help you identify plants, animals, and natural features. These tours are perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to deepen their connection with the outdoors in Southern California.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the nature walk or hike tour?
The tours vary from 1-3 hours for easy experiences, 3-4 hours for moderate hikes, and up to a full day (around 6-8 hours) for strenuous adventures.
Are these tours suitable for children?
Yes, activities are designed for all ages. There are options for families with young children, as well as more challenging hikes for older kids and adults.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, snacks or a full meal, weather protection, and appropriate footwear. For longer or more strenuous hikes, additional gear like binoculars or field guides can enhance your experience.
Are the tours accessible for people with mobility issues?
Infants and small children can ride in strollers, and the tours are suitable for all physical fitness levels. However, some hikes involve uneven terrain and elevation changes, so check specific tour details if you have concerns.
What wildlife might I see during the tour?
Expect to see a variety of animals including deer, bobcats, foxes, coyotes, lizards, snakes, and many bird species like quail, hawks, owls, and songbirds.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, all tours are private, allowing for a personalized experience tailored to your group's interests and pace.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 48 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Knowledgeable naturalist guides
Not included
- Lunch
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Start from a neighborhood in East Orange, ascending a rocky basalt trail with panoramic views of Orange and Los Angeles counties. Explore wildflowers, identify edible and medicinal plants, and look for wildlife like roadrunners, eagles, coyotes, and snakes. At the top, enjoy views of Catalina Island, Hollywood Sign, and nearby mountain ranges. Terrain is uneven with full sun exposure; bring water, snacks, and weather protection.
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Stop 2
Follow Barefoot Joel through a shady oak woodland with a creek and aromatic sage scrub. Observe plants and wildlife such as quail, lizards, frogs, and wood ducks. The trail is about a mile round-trip, with minimal elevation gain. Wear layered clothing, carry water and snacks, and enjoy a family-friendly walk.
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Stop 3
Experience a nocturnal adventure in a haunted canyon, listening for owls, bats, and other creatures. Search for wildlife like bobcats, coyotes, and mountain lions. The easy 3-mile round-trip trail includes gully crossings and minimal elevation gain. Bring snacks, flashlights, and be prepared for an exciting night walk.
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Stop 4
Join a strenuous 7-mile round-trip hike along a creek into a riparian forest with waterfalls and rock pools. Search for rare wildlife like newts and frogs, learn about plants, and scramble over boulders. Prepare for a wet, challenging trek with plenty of water and a packed lunch. Not recommended for those with mobility issues.
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Stop 5
Discover edible, medicinal, and material plants on an easy 1-3 mile walk. Learn ethnobotany, sustainability, and ethics through frequent stops to observe and taste (at your own risk). Suitable for all ages, with minimal elevation gain and a mix of sun and shade.
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Stop 6
Explore Silverado Canyon’s remote section, passing through towering forests of Douglas-fir, maple, and live oak. Engage in bushwhacking, identify wildflowers, and look for blooms like Humboldt lilies and ladybird beetles. The 2-3 mile moderate to strenuous trek involves rock scrambling and poison oak.
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Stop 7
Walk through Southern California’s rolling foothills, observing oak, walnut, sage, and grassland ecosystems. Spot wildlife such as deer, birds, and butterflies while learning about local habitats and indigenous ways of life. The 1-3 mile walk offers a mix of sun and shade with some elevation.
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Stop 8
Explore a canyon near Rose Hills with a flowing creek, cliffs, prickly pear cactus, and wild grapevines. Observe wildlife including mule deer and coastal birds. Walk 3.3 miles on uneven terrain, with some elevation gain, carrying water and snacks. Enjoy the scenery and listen for wildlife sounds.
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Stop 9
Visit Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in the Santa Ana Mountains for an 8-mile round-trip trek through rugged terrain. Cross creeks, scramble over boulders, and observe wild edibles and native plants. Learn about cultural history and enjoy scenic views. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
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Stop 10
Hike to a pristine Southern California beach, passing through sage scrub and coastal bluffs. Explore tide pools, search for crabs and octopus, and enjoy the possibility of seeing seals and dolphins. The 2-mile round-trip walk involves steep paths and full sun; bring water, sun protection, and a picnic.
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Stop 11
Join a birding walk at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, stopping frequently to identify birds and wildlife. Practice birding by ear, using binoculars and field guides. The flat, 1-2 mile trail offers full sun exposure with minimal elevation change.
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Stop 12
Engage in a relaxed birdwatching experience, observing and listening for local birds. Learn to identify species by calls and behaviors, and enjoy quiet moments of connection with nature. The walk covers about 2 miles with some uneven terrain and a gentle ascent.
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Stop 13
Visit wetlands to observe diverse bird species and other wildlife. The easy 2-mile walk requires no elevation gain and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography and observation. Carry binoculars and water.
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Stop 14
Participate in a family-friendly foraging activity, learning about edible, medicinal, and material plants and fungi. Use your senses to explore sage scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands. The activity involves walking 1-2 miles on mostly flat terrain, with creek crossings and opportunities to pick plants (consume at your own risk). Bring foraging tools and a full meal.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the start point in Fullerton near the Rowland Water District.
Park along Fullerton Rd near the northern intersection with Harbor Blvd. Do NOT park at the southern intersection, as it is not near the trailhead.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day prior
- No refund if cancelled within 24 hours
- Tours may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient travelers
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $300.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
