Hiking with children with physical disabilities often presents a challenge for parents – parking, trail accessibility and weather may all present challenges. We’ve comprised a list of accessible hiking trails in the greater Los Angeles area that will help you and your loved ones get outside, enjoy nature, and breathe in some fresh air – only a few of the benefits of experiencing the great outdoors.
The trail to the “Oak of the Golden Dream” marks the location of the first gold discovery in California in 1842, and it is fully accessible. Placerita features shaded oak groves, a seasonal stream lined with sycamore trees and many other plant varieties that will make your hike more enjoyable. There are seven different trails in total, covering 12 miles. There are both beginner and advanced trails, so it’s a good idea to get yourself a map at the information desk before you get hiking.
Most areas in the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area are accessible, with over 7 miles of existing nature trails to choose from. There are also many parks nearby, ponds, playgrounds, picnic rental shelters and barbecue pits. Whether you want to venture out for a short nature hike or make a day of it with the family, this is one spot where you can do it all.
Bonita Canyon Trail is an accessible trail that features concrete surfaces and is just over 3.2 miles in length. Near the midpoint of the trail, you can enter the Shady Canyon Trail to travel northeast and visit Quail Hill Preserve. The trail has no official parking areas, but parking is usually available on local streets. Keep this information in mind when determining whether this would be a good hiking spot for your child.
Bouquet Canyon Trail is located in Santa Clarita and is over 3.5 miles long. The surface is asphalt and concrete and it runs in two separate segments that aren’t connected, with the western segment giving access to commercial businesses and the eastern segment more residential. There is a trail bridge on the eastern part of the trail that offers access to Bridgeport Park.
The Castaways Trail is shorter than the others at just one mile, but it can’t be beat when it comes to spectacular views. When you set out on this hike, you will be able to see the ocean, mountains, Newport Harbor and Upper Newport Bay. There are a handful of outlooks along the trail to really take in the scenery, which makes it a great hiking destination for the whole family.
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