The best walks and hikes around Norwalk
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Hiking around Norwalk offers a diverse landscape characterized by coastal paths, riverine routes, and extensive woodlands. The region features accessible parklands and green spaces, providing varied scenery for outdoor activities. Elevations are generally low, making many routes suitable for different fitness levels. This blend of natural features ensures a range of hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Norwalk
- The most popular hiking route is Heartwell Park Trail, a 6.1 miles (9.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 29 minutes to complete. This moderate route winds through parkland, offering a balanced outdoor experience.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is San Gabriel River Trail, a moderate 7.1 miles (11.4 km) path. This trail follows the river, providing scenic views and a relatively flat terrain.
- Local hikers also love the La Mirada Community Regional Park Loop, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 41 minutes.
- Hiking around Norwalk is defined by coastal paths, riverine routes, and woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Norwalk are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 2.6 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Norwalk's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
3
hikers
9.86km
02:29
10m
10m
If you're looking for a peaceful, accessible hike in Long Beach, the Heartwell Park Trail delivers a pleasant experience. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) route, despite its 'moderate' rating, features a remarkably flat profile with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it feel much easier and suitable for all fitness levels. You'll stroll along well-maintained, tree-lined pathways, passing open recreational fields and a tranquil fishing pond often frequented by ducks, providing a continuous green corridor through the city.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as Heartwell Park offers extensive amenities and parking. The trail is enjoyable year-round thanks to Long Beach's mild climate, so you can pick any day for a leisurely walk or jog. No permits or fees are required, making it an easy choice for a spontaneous outdoor activity.
Beyond the hiking trail, Heartwell Park is a hub for community activities, featuring a public golf course, picnic areas, playgrounds, and various sports facilities. It's a true urban oasis, offering a diverse landscape that includes a dedicated bike and run path extending to the San Gabriel River path, perfect for those looking to extend their adventure.
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2.00km
00:30
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The West San Gabriel River Parkway Nature Trail is a delightful urban escape, often described as a secret garden for its peaceful atmosphere. You'll find a mix of dirt paths and paved sections winding alongside the San Gabriel River, shaded by trees and dotted with native plants. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, from various birds and butterflies to flowers, making this a surprisingly rich natural experience within Lakewood.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail's less popular nature means you'll likely find lighter traffic and a more serene environment. It's an easy 1.2-mile (2.0 km) route with only 10 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 30 minutes to complete. This makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick run, and it's dog friendly, provided your furry friend stays on a leash.
What truly sets this trail apart is its ability to provide a tranquil natural experience right in the middle of a busy urban area. It's an accessible option for all skill levels, offering a valuable community space for recreation and connecting with nature. The trail's easy hiking difficulty makes it an excellent choice for beginners or families looking for a quick outdoor adventure.
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2
hikers
2.64km
00:41
10m
20m
The La Mirada Community Regional Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a surprisingly diverse urban green space. You'll enjoy meandering paths that circle a tranquil urban lake, providing lovely water views and a chance to spot local waterfowl. The route also features lush greenery, including mature oak trees, and on clear days, you can even catch distant views of the San Gabriel Mountains, making it a scenic escape for all.
Planning your visit to this popular hiking trail in La Mirada is simple, as the park provides ample parking. Given its popularity and the array of amenities, consider arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, to ensure a convenient spot. This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) loop, with only 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 41 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, refreshing outing any time of year.
Beyond just hiking, La Mirada Community Regional Park is a highly versatile recreational area, recognized as one of Los Angeles County's most picturesque parks. It's home to two premier disc golf courses, a fishing lake, and the Splash! Aquatics Center, offering plenty of family-friendly activities. This makes the park an excellent destination for combining a leisurely walk with other sports or a fun day out with the kids.
1
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1.57km
00:25
10m
10m
The La Mirada Creek Park Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a surprisingly lush urban green space. You'll follow a gentle creek, crossing charming wooden bridges, and enjoy the shade of large oak trees. Keep an eye out for the native California plant garden and the vibrant butterfly garden, especially in warmer months, making this 1.0-mile (1.6 km) loop a serene escape with only 43 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 24 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this family-friendly hike. The trail features mostly paved paths, ensuring easy accessibility for all, though some sections might be unpaved. The park is well-equipped with amenities like covered picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms, making it a convenient spot for a quick outing. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed walk without significant logistical hurdles.
What makes this trail a hidden gem is its thoughtful design, transforming a flood-control channel into a vibrant community green corridor. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll find educational signage in the native plant garden and even a horse trail accessible via tunnels. It's a testament to urban planning, offering a unique blend of recreation and nature right within the city, providing many La Mirada Creek Park points of interest for visitors.
11.4km
02:52
10m
10m
The San Gabriel River Trail offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery, following the river through varied terrain. You'll find yourself on largely paved paths, but don't be surprised by sections of crushed granite or even unpaved segments, especially as you pass through green spaces like El Dorado East Regional Park. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with distant views of the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making it a pleasant escape from city life.
This moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) hike has a minimal elevation gain of just 20 feet (6 metres), taking approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes to complete. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like rest stops, water fountains, and bathrooms at various parks along its extensive length. Parking is generally available near trailheads, but it's always wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, and consider hiking during cooler parts of the day.
What makes the San Gabriel River Trail stand out is its incredible length and ability to connect numerous communities and regional parks across Los Angeles County. It serves as a vital recreational corridor, linking to other trails like the Rio Hondo River Trail. This particular segment provides an easy hiking experience, perfect for families or anyone looking for a long, flat walk with diverse surroundings.
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Tips from the Community
Limited cars use the roads so it is nice to get away from traffic
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One of the largest urban parks in the valley, with lakes, meadows, sports fields, picnic areas, etc.
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The San Gabriel River is one of the best routes in the entire valley to bike safely without traffic on a dedicated trail from the hills through the sprawling downtown areas to the ocean. The trail runs on the river levee, mostly on the east bank. While the river is mostly a concrete canal, there are a few sections where it passes by parks like here the El Dorado, or private gardens and plant nurseries, adding a few touches of green in this huge metropolitan area that otherwise has few long, dedicated bike routes.
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The San Gabriel River is one of the best routes in the entire valley to bike safely without traffic on a dedicated trail from the hills through the sprawling downtown areas to the ocean. The trail runs on the river levee, mostly on the east bank. While the river is mostly a concrete canal, there are a few sections where it passes by parks like here the El Dorado, or private gardens and plant nurseries, adding a few touches of green in this huge metropolitan area that otherwise has few long, dedicated bike routes.
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Very large public park along the river with a network of car-free bike trails and quiet park roads connecting several lakes, shady groves, and picnic facilities with restrooms and water.
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Starting at the mouth of the San Gabriel River one mile to the west, this is one of 4 main bike paths radiating inland from the coast.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Norwalk?
Norwalk offers a wide variety of hiking options, with over 30 trails documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Norwalk?
Norwalk's hiking trails showcase a diverse landscape. You can explore coastal paths with views of the Long Island Sound, follow riverine routes along the Norwalk River, or wander through extensive woodlands and accessible parklands. This blend provides varied scenery, from urban sections to natural green spaces.
Are there any easy trails suitable for beginners or families in Norwalk?
Yes, Norwalk has many easy trails. For instance, the West San Gabriel River Parkway Nature Trail is an easy 2.0-mile path, and the La Mirada Community Regional Park Loop is another easy 1.6-mile option through parkland. Many parks like Cranbury Park also offer gentle routes.
Where can I find trails with scenic views or natural features?
For scenic views, consider trails that offer coastal or riverine perspectives. The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) provides river views, and Cranbury Park features a 1.5-mile route called The Driftway with river views, salt marshes, and panoramic vistas from Lookout Hill. You can also find highlights like Turnbull Canyon or Rio Hondo Bike Bridge near some routes.
Are there any circular or loop trails in Norwalk?
Yes, there are several loop trails. The La Mirada Community Regional Park Loop is a popular 1.6-mile option. Cranbury Park also offers numerous wooded trails that can be combined to form various loops, and the Harbor Loop Trail in Riverside Park provides a 2.5-mile easy loop with harbor views.
What are some notable parks or areas to explore for hiking in Norwalk?
Beyond specific trails, key areas for hiking include Cranbury Park, known for its extensive woodlands and meadows, and Oak Hills Park with its nature trails. The Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) is a significant draw, and coastal parks like Calf Pasture Beach and Shady Beach offer pleasant walks along the shoreline.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Norwalk?
The trails in Norwalk are generally well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 2.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Hikers often appreciate the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to woodlands, and the accessibility of many routes for various fitness levels.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks near the hiking trails?
Many trails are close to points of interest. For example, Cranbury Park hosts the historic Gallaher Mansion. The Norwalk River Valley Trail passes by the Maritime Aquarium. You can also find natural features like Laguna Lake or North Lake near some hiking areas.
Where can I find more information about Norwalk's parks and trails?
For additional details on Norwalk's parks, beaches, and trails, you can visit the official city website. They provide resources such as walking maps and trail information at norwalkct.gov/Beaches-Parks-Trails and norwalkct.gov/Walking-Maps-Trails.
What is the longest river trail available in Norwalk?
The San Gabriel River Trail is a notable riverine option, offering a moderate 7.1-mile path that follows the river, providing scenic views and a relatively flat terrain.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for a longer, moderate hike?
For a longer, moderate hike, the Heartwell Park Trail is a good choice. It's a 6.1-mile route that winds through parkland, offering a balanced outdoor experience. The San Gabriel River Trail is also a moderate option at 7.1 miles.
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