10 Best Hiking Trails in Ventura, California
Ocean Views!! That is what we all picture when we hear the name Ventura, but what if we tell you that this city is also a dream come true for hikers and nature enthusiasts? The beautiful hiking trails in Ventura feature scenic coastal paths and gorgeous mountain treks bound to make you fall in love with hiking. Stroll alongside the Ventura Botanic Garden Trail, where plants flaunt their aesthetics better than influencers. If you want to watch Daredevils, the Backbone Trail will not disappoint you. Are you too tired to cover long hikes but want great views? We got you! Visit Harmon Canyon Preserve, where Oak trees and lush hills create views straight out of some fictional land. Ventura hiking trails aren't just walk-in simple parks, they’re nature’s message to you saying “Get out of bed and feel alive again!
Ventura Botanic Garden

With easy to moderate levels of difficulty, hiking aspires can complete this trail easily, and upon completion, they can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, including vague views of Santa Cruz Island and Anacapa at the backdrop. Plant lovers would love to see native plants like Chilean and South African blooms of reds, oranges, and yellows. The entry charges are 7 dollars, Mondays are closed, and Fridays are free.
Tip: Pets are allowed, so your furry partner can join too!
Harmon Canyon

Harmon Canyon is one of a kind when it comes to hikes in Ventura! It is a publicly accessible nature reserve in the city built on a very huge scale. All credit to the Ventura Land Trust, hikers can hike on the trails surrounded by a breathtaking patrol of gnarled oaks, vistas, and lush grass. The trail is moderate in difficulty level and starts flat which eventually rises with steep hills and rocks and the hikers move forward. Parking is also available and friendly volunteers from Land Trust keep on building more trails.
Tip: The main trail is further divided into many small trails, so you can choose your path according to your convenience and energy.
Arroyo Verde Park

Arroyo Verde Park is one of the favorite hiking trails in Ventura CA. It's perfect for solo travelers or loners as its 132 acres of land easily provide spots for a moment alone. The trail starts with a grassy area, and as the hikes elevated the views of the gorgeous sea come into the picture. The trail is not difficult and is mostly loved by runners and local walkers. So are you ready to increase your heart rate?
Tip: Pack some picnic stuff, because the park provides a proper shaded area to chill and relax after long trails.
Smugglers Cove

The 12.4-kilometer long and moderately challenging Smugglers Cove near Ventura takes an average of 3 hours and 42 minutes to complete. It is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, and the trail leads to Smugglers Cove Beach from Scorpion Beach, where Island Packer boats drop off tourists. Visitors can expect zero to no shade and should bring lots of water because they might not find it on the beach. Bathrooms and campsites are also available nearby.
Tip: The park does not allow dogs so, refrain from taking them along with you.
San Buenaventura Beach

Who doesn’t love a hike by the beach? And when a taco stand is located midway, it makes everything perfect! This walk on this trail starts at San Buenaventura Beach and stretches to Ventura Piers (make sure you complete it till the end) and then takes a loop that takes back to the main beach area. This experience is all about “tacos and views” and let's be honest who doesn’t love it?
Tip: Wait for the sunset, because the views by the beach are beautiful!
Ventura Community Park

A hike in Ventura Community Park feels like a calm walk in a park, although it’s a hike. The almost plain and smooth trails, which run across baseball and soccer grounds, are adored by sports lovers like joggers, runners, bikers, and skaters.
Tip: Want to enjoy more of this place? Keep taking loops of the trails, because views never disappoint!
Cavern Point Loop

Located 2 miles away from Ventura City, the Cavern Point Loop hike starts with a bit of elevation (that’s the difficult park), but it eventually becomes easy as you climb clockwise. Once the trail is crossed the climb is simply filled with beautiful views and grassland vistas. See the vast views of the Pacific and Santa Barbara Channel, places that nobody talks about anymore.
Tip: Carry along binoculars with you, there is a good chance you end up with a chance of whale sighting.
Historic Ranch Hike

Since we don’t discriminate, we decided to add this underrated little haven to our list of hiking trails too. This trail is fun, scenic, small, and flat! Perfect for individuals who prioritize their energy a little too much, but don’t want to miss out on hiking fun. This hike crosses through Scorpion Ranch, which showcases interesting displays of ranch life from the 18th century. Along the way, visitors can see farm equipment and cool tools.
Tip: The highlight of this place is the sighting of Island Fox, which we are sure nobody wants to miss out on.
Lobo Canyon

Located on Santa Rosa Island, approximately 18 miles from Ventura, this trail is the 2nd largest in the Channel National Park. Apart from beautiful hiking trails especially the Lobo Canyon one, visitors can also hike scrubland which looks like moors from Scotland, and rolling hills covered in shade of green. Lobo Canyon hike trail is surrounded by huge canyon walls and stream path which makes this experience a bit different and unique compared to the other hiking spots in Ventura.
Tip: Overnight camping is a must here providing the views night sky filled with billions of stars.
Two Trees Trail

A classic hiking spot in Ventura is the Two Trees Trail. Despite being short, it is quite steep, which makes it a popular choice for people seeking a quick yet demanding workout. The theory behind this interesting name? Two big trees at the summit of the trail, which have served as sentinels for many years, are the source of its name!
Tip: The hike is on private property, so be respectful and follow the rules.
Recommendation
- If you are looking for a long stay in Ventura, the hotels in VenturaCA provide comfortable stays with friendly staff that can also assist to plan your day in the city. Victoria Motel in Ventura is a budget-friendly option, it is conveniently located just 10 min of drive from San Buenaventura State Beach and Marina Park. The rooms feature free Wi-Fi, cable TV, a kitchenette, and comfy beds, and parking is also free!
- Traveling around the city becomes super easy, thanks to the car rentals in Ventura CA. With an easy booking process and fast service, visitors can enjoy all of these attractions in a short time.
About Author
Sarah produces creative and informative content based on her travel experience. She keeps her blogs up-to-date with the latest information.