Redlands Hiking Trails: The Best Hikes

Redlands has canyon trails, hilltop parks and easy paths through orange groves, all within a few minutes of downtown. Here are the best-known trails, with official maps and rules. Planning a full day? Pair a hike with our Redlands day trip itinerary.

Best hiking trails in Redlands

1. San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary (Carriage Trail and Cocomaricopa Trail)

The San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary covers 200 acres in San Timoteo Canyon between Alessandro Rd and San Timoteo Canyon Rd. It has creekside riparian habitat with a year-round stream, plus grassland and chaparral. The Redlands Conservancy says the two historic trails make a four-mile loop end to end. The Carriage Trail was built by the Smiley brothers around 1900, and the Cocomaricopa Trail follows the creek along the route of an ancient Native American trail.

• Open: daily, dawn to dusk, for hikers, bikers and equestrians. Sign in at the wooden box.
• Start: the Alessandro Rd entrance.
• Guided walks: call the Conservancy at (909) 782-6208.

2. Creekside Trail

A short climb to a bench with views over San Timoteo Canyon, managed by the Redlands Conservancy. Visit California lists it at 1.3 miles round trip. Start from Alessandro Rd, or park higher up on Creekside Dr for an easier climb.

3. Prospect Park

Prospect Park (1352 Prospect Dr) is an 11.4-acre natural park with trails and picnic areas, next to Kimberly Crest. It's the easiest scenic walk in town and good for families.

4. Caroline Park

A short hillside loop off Chaparral Dr in south Redlands. It's known for spring wildflowers and is a good starter hike. Check the city's trail map for access points.

5. Orange Blossom Trail

A paved and decomposed-granite path for walkers and cyclists that links the University of Redlands area, downtown and the Esri campus, marked with way-finding decals. It's flat and good for strollers.

6. Crafton Hills Open Space (Yucaipa)

Just east of Redlands, the Crafton Hills Open Space Conservancy maintains more than 20 miles of shared-use trails, including the strenuous climb to Zanja Peak (3,543 feet, per Visit California).

7. The San Bernardino Mountains

For longer hikes and cooler summer temperatures, head into the San Bernardino National Forest. Check the Forest Service page for current closures, fire restrictions and pass rules.

Trail maps

• City of Redlands trail map PDF
• Redlands Conservancy trail and driving tour maps

Hiking safety tips for Redlands

• From June to September, hike early. Most trails have little shade and no water.
• Rattlesnakes live in the chaparral. Watch where you step, and back away if you see one.
• Yield the right way: hikers and bikers yield to horses, and bikers yield to everyone.
• Keep dogs leashed where posted, and pack out your trash.
• Don't leave valuables in your car at trailheads.

After your hike, refuel at a spot from our coffee guide or restaurant guide. Training for bigger hikes? See our Redlands gyms guide.