Oak Canyon Nature Center Loop

In addition to the staffed nature center building and outdoor educational based programs offered at the site, the Oak Canyon Nature Center offers a variety of trails suitable for all ability levels in the 58 acres of protected natural space.

Run by the City of Anaheim, Oak Canyon Nature Center offers a family friendly environment for those looking to explore thick oak wooded canyon and streams, as well access some of the higher trails which offer views over the wooded glen.

Visiting the nature center grounds can feel like stepping back in time in an area where natural landscapes have disappeared behind a wave of development. 

While there are trails here ranging from wide and easy flat paths to somewhat technical climbs, we combined several of the park's marked paths to create the Oak Canyon Nature Center Loop. These trails stick to the outer fringes of paths offered within the park, and as such, manage to avoid the heavier crowds encountered along the main road beside the stream.

Visitors can create their own route based on the many intersecting paths of the nature center's trail network. This loop path mixes shaded peaceful trails along the southern edge with exposed, higher paths on the north side that offer glimpses over the canyon. Sandstone cliff formations, stands of flowering prickly pear cactus, palm oases and benches at viewpoints can all be found along the loop trail. 

With only 190' of elevation change along the trail, the frequent climbs and drops give this around 600' of total elevation gain. 

Visitors should take a photo of the trail map located outside the visitor, or they can simply wander the paths as they'd like, as the general direction to the trailhead tends to be easy to find.

Bathrooms and water are located just outside the nature center grounds in the parking area. Dogs, horses and bicycles are not permitted on the park grounds.

The trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset, however the parking lot and bathrooms close at 5pm daily. While the Nature Center grounds are free to visit, donations are appreciated.

Additional information can be found at the Oak Canyon Nature Center website.