At 1180', Peralta Peak is the high point of the Peralta Hills open space area. At 2 miles round trip, the route to the peak is fairly short, however is entirely uphill with slopes varying from easily manageable switchbacks to steep single track sprints.
Beginning on a well signed equestrian-friendly multi-use trail on Camino Grande in Anaheim Hills, the path begins as an adequately wide dirt route that climbs from the housing development to increasingly impressive views across North Orange County and the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance.
Before long, the trail becomes a steep and tight path that heads straight up a hillside before reaching a paved service road to one of the hilltop water towers. At this point, views to the south begin to open up, and hikers will feel high above the surrounding landscape. A sign marks the point where the gravel path leaves the Anaheim Hills jurisdiction and joins the Orange County Parks space. This dirt fire road wraps around a couple false peaks before reaching a single track that jogs up to Peralta Peak, where a couple boulders jut out and offer a spot to sit and take in the near panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The trail is moderate difficulty, mostly due to a few steep sections, however those taking their time should be able to hike this, and will be rewarded with breathtaking views. A few other water towers and lower peaks offer alternate viewpoints only a short walk away, or hikers can retrace their route back down to the trailhead.
Parking is available along Camino Grande, however onstreet parking beside the trailhead is not permitted. The nearest permitted street parking is about a quarter mile east of the trailhead along Camino Grande. 2 miles is the distance from the parking to the peak and back.
There is no water or amenities at any point along the hike. This trail is used by hikers, dog walkers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.
Open trail hours are 7am-6pm November through February, and 7am to 9pm March through October.
Comments
Sign In and share them.