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Water Tank Trail

Laguna Beach, California

4.3/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

3.05 miles

Elevation Gain

502 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

The Laguna Coast Wilderness is 7,000 acres of magnificent coastal canyons, mountains, and natural lakes overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It has over 50 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, and is home to over 40 endangered species.

There a numerous trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness that proceed up and along the ridges and down into the canyons (or the reverse), and most are excellent for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.

A classic out-and-back (with many options for loops) begins in Irvine Bowl Park at the end of Lookout Drive, and proceeds up the ridgeline and past the Water Tank (and an excellent spot to catch a sunset).

During the spring wildflower bloom you will pass a beautiful field of Golden Yarrow, with epic views up and down the coast and over all of Laguna Beach.

Follow the trail till it reaches its highpoint at the intersection with the Boat Road, Laguna Road, Laguna Ridge, and Bommer Ridge trails. From hear you can head back or continue onwards, either further along the ridgeline or down into Emerald Canyon or Laguna Canyon.

Looking for more options near the Laguna Coast Wilderness?
Mountain Bike Car Wreck Trail through Aliso Canyon
Trail Run the Boat Road and Laguna Ridge
Mountain Bike Bommer Ridge & Emerald Canyon

This adventure was featured in our Spring 2019 Lookbook!

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Features

Fitness
Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Water Tank Trail Reviews

Love this hike

Even if you don't see flowers or wildlife, you'll be blown away by the views and tranquility on this spot. It's just so peaceful and worth the hike.

Went up here there weekend and was a bit disappointed to see that most of the wildflowers were gone but the views were still stunning! Beginning of the hike is pretty steep but after that it levels out. Suitable for all ages and a great trail to get panoramic views of the coast.

This is a nice hike that you can choose to turn back at multiple points. The beginning starts aren't really steep so just be ready for a major calf burn, and the rest of the trail consists of many ups and downs for the most part though. Good place to catch a sunset or just a view of the Laguna Ocean

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Relax at Heisler Park

Trail Run the Boat Road and Laguna Ridge

Stand Up Paddleboard Fisherman's Cove

Kayak the Laguna Beach State Marine Preserve

Scuba Dive Shaw’s Cove, Laguna Beach

Explore the Seascape at Crescent Bay

Laguna Beach

Hike gorgeous ridgelines, play in the waves, or simply meander through the jaw-dropping coastline, Laguna Beach is a memorable destination for artists and adventurers alike. 

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