New to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park? Whether you’re a volunteer, a new hiker, or simply curious about this wild and beautiful landscape, join us for a welcoming orientation hike that will help you get your bearings—both on the trails and in the ecosystem. ...
New to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park? Whether you’re a volunteer, a new hiker, or simply curious about this wild and beautiful landscape, join us for a welcoming orientation hike that will help you get your bearings—both on the trails and in the ecosystem.
This guided hike is designed to introduce you to key landmarks, trail connections, scenic viewpoints, and the incredible wildlife and native plants that call this place home. Along the way, we’ll share tips for exploring and stewarding the land responsibly. Perfect for first-time visitors, new volunteers, or anyone who wants to feel more at home in the coastal canyons.
This moderate difficulty hike is approximately 3.5 miles long and has 600 feet of elevation gain, and includes views of the beautiful rock formations in the Canyon, the expanse of the South Coast Wilderness, and Sycamore and Oak groves.
Age: 12 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Location: Willow Staging Area, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (West side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road).
Parking: $3/car at Willow Staging Area parking lot. Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged.
Difficulty Rating: 3/5
Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection.
Safety precautions and protocols:
- Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
- Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
- Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
- To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
- If you register and are no longer able to attend, please cancel your registration as soon as possible to allow others the chance to register.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.
Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.
