orange county hike – Serafina Hikes

The Highest 2 Peaks in Orange County CA

February 1, 2026May 3, 2026 @serafinahikes

This hike was a long time coming, a small goal I had in a big universe. Originally I wanted to hike the Holy Jim trail (14 miles), but it's been closed because of the Airport Fire. This is the highest peak in Orange County where I live. The traditional way to get there is the Holy Jim Trail, which seems like it has been closed for most of the last 10 years, due to weather, and fires. It is opening this year, supposedly. But I have wanted to complete this peak, for so long, I decided now was the time. I was prepared to hike 24 miles if need be. But as events began to unfold it would prove to be a much shorter adventure than I had anticipated.

Buck Gully in December

December 8, 2025December 8, 2025 @serafinahikes

It was a cool late afternoon in December as I headed over to the Buck Gully Trail in Corona Del Mar.As I trodded along listening to the sound of the peaceful creek which flows alongside the trail, I felt like I was walking within a zen retreat of some sort. There was a very gradual amount of gain along the way on this hike. My hike today was only about 4 miles to the signage by the powerpole, and back, although there is an extension that continues onto San Joaquin Hills Road, which I did not explore. I would also consider this a wonderful easy hike if you're just starting to get into hiking and don't want something that's too technical or long.