The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve
4.8
(198)
1,885
hikers
74
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve traverse expansive rolling hills and native grasslands, offering picturesque views and a sense of wide-open spaces. The preserve features a coastal sage scrub habitat, a significant ecosystem supporting diverse plant and animal life, and includes wetland areas where native plants and birdlife can be observed. Hikers can experience panoramic views of the city of Irvine, surrounding mountains, and Saddleback Valley from various points along the trails. This landscape provides a…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
7.19km
01:51
20m
70m
Embark on an easy hike along the University Trail, a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route that winds through southern Irvine. You will experience a pleasant mix of paved surfaces as you…
29.3km
07:53
370m
380m
Embark on the Shady Canyon Trail for a challenging hike through a diverse landscape of rolling hills and canyons. This difficult route spans 18.2 miles (29.3 km), with a significant…
Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
40
hikers
2.90km
00:47
40m
40m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile Quail Hill Loop Trail through scenic open fields, enjoying wildflowers and views of Irvine and surrounding mountains.
4.6
(7)
5
hikers
12.7km
03:30
210m
210m
The Shady Canyon and Bommer Canyon Loop is a moderate 7.9-mile hike through rolling hills and historic ranchlands in Irvine, offering expans
18
hikers
5.23km
01:25
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The trail is a nice easy packed dirt path with enough space to pass other hikers. The trail winds its way through the meadow with little shade and is representative of the other trails in Bommer Canyon.
0
0
There is a wide packed dirt trail for foot traffic that parallels a two-lane paved bikeway through Shady Canyon.
0
0
Enjoy the peaceful scenery of the wetlands, with its native plants, diverse birdlife, and seasonal wildflowers. The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for riders of all ages and abilities.
0
0
Bommer Canyon Preserve is part of the old Irvine Ranch Cattle Camp. Covered by a sycamore canopy, Bommer Canyon Preserve is also an important preservation area for many local plants and wildlife, including several endangered species.
0
0
Also simply called Mason Regional Park, this green area holds several trails, plentiful shade trees, picnic areas and large turf fields, plus a softball backstop, sand volleyball courts, a fitness trail, several tot lot playgrounds, and even a small lake. Entry costs $3 per vehicle Monday-Friday, and $5/vehicle on Saturday and Sunday.
0
0
Shady Canyon Trail is a mixed use bike and pedestrian path adjacent to the luxurious Shady Canyon neighborhood. Entirely paved and very well-kept, it is often busy with pedestrians, so ride with care and courtesy.
1
0
Quail Hill Open Space is jammed pack (depending on the season) with all types of wildflowers, lupines, owl’s clover, milkweed and poppy, add hues of purple and orange!
0
0
There is a short path from the parking lot that takes you to the Quail Hill viewpoint. The view is still fairly lowland, but you can see the entirety of the open space with mountains off in the hazy distance.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve?
Quail Hill Open Space Preserve offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families, with over 38 easy and 30 moderate hiking trails. This means you have more than 60 options to explore with your loved ones.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, dogs are welcome on many trails within the preserve, provided they are kept on a leash. The popular Quail Hill Loop Trail is a great option for families with their canine companions.
What is the best time of year to visit Quail Hill Open Space Preserve with family?
Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the rolling hills and native grasslands come alive with colorful wildflowers like purple lupines, orange poppies, and Indian paintbrush. The weather is also typically mild, making for comfortable hiking conditions.
Are there any easy, short loop trails suitable for young children or strollers?
Absolutely! The Quail Hill Loop Trail is an easy 2.8 km (1.8 miles) loop with a modest incline, making it perfect for families with young children or those pushing strollers. It's a well-maintained dirt path that offers an audio tour to enhance your experience.
What kind of wildlife can we expect to see on a family hike?
Quail Hill Open Space Preserve is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot various bird species such as quail, hummingbirds, western meadowlarks, and raptors soaring overhead. Keep an eye out for roadrunners and, if you're lucky, the rare California gnatcatcher.
Are there good viewpoints or landmarks along the family trails?
Many trails offer panoramic views of the city of Irvine, surrounding mountains, Saddleback Valley, and Laguna Canyon. From higher points, you can even see Palos Verdes. The Quail Hill Loop Trail provides lovely views of wildflowers and the city.
Is parking available and are there restrooms at Quail Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, the preserve is very accessible. There is a dedicated parking lot with free parking available. You'll also find a restroom building with drinking fountains and picnic areas, making it convenient for families.
What should we bring for a family hike in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve?
We recommend bringing plenty of water, especially on warmer days, and snacks for energy. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are also essential. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery!
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained trails, the beautiful rolling hills, and the accessibility for all skill levels, especially the family-friendly options.
Are there any longer, moderate family-friendly routes for older children?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Shady Canyon and Bommer Canyon Loop is a moderate 12.6 km (7.9 miles) route that offers more significant elevation gain and expansive views, connecting to larger preserve areas.
Can we find trails that connect to other preserves from Quail Hill?
Yes, Quail Hill Open Space Preserve serves as a gateway to the larger Irvine Open Space Preserve. Trails like the Shady Canyon Trail loop from Quail Hill allow you to explore adjacent canyons and extend your adventure into areas like Shady Canyon and Bommer Canyon.
Most popular routes in Quail Hill Open Space Preserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
