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Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,155 Google reviews · Running trail in Huntington Beach, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
1300 acre ecological preserve with over 200 avian species spread around the coastal wetlands.
What runners say about Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
“There were informative placards around it was very clean and very quiet.”
“What a beautiful spot to get away from the city and enjoy nature!”
“We went on a week day, not crowded at all, which was perfect for us since we wanted to take pictures with flowers of my beloved dog's paw print.”
It’s an easy hiking area through beautiful nature. We’ve seen many birds, lizards, fish, squirrels, rabbits, and even coyotes. Fortunately, the coyotes were on the other side of the fence. Just be aware when you’re hiking. The trails are easy for kids to walk and very well-maintained.
Great place to watch birds and go for a hike. Runners, birders and walkers share the trails. Plenty of clean, informative signs at every lookout point. Most of the scenery is near ocean side with oil rigs on the northern end. It cuts off on eastern end for mating birds. Some pretty pink flowers there to mark the spot.
What a beautiful spot to get away from the city and enjoy nature! There's many birds to look at. I loved walking through the trail surrounded by wildflowers! Very peaceful and serene. Parking is free and easy. There was one port a potty in the parking lot in case you gotta go! Definitely worth a visit!
Flowers are not fully blooming yet but still very beautiful. Perfect place for bird sighting. We went on a week day, not crowded at all, which was perfect for us since we wanted to take pictures with flowers of my beloved dog's paw print.
Trail conditions & character
“Easy, mostly flat hiking spot with excellent views of the Bolsa Chica Ecological reserve.”
“A crosswalk at the parking lot on the east side for pch would be helpful for those who want to cross to the beach side.”
“We went on a week day, not crowded at all, which was perfect for us since we wanted to take pictures with flowers of my beloved dog's paw print.”
“The one disappointing part is the bathrooms were not functional the time I was there”
“We went on a week day, not crowded at all, which was perfect for us since we wanted to take pictures with flowers of my beloved dog's paw print.”
“It also seemed like a place that could accommodate a wheelchair if necessary.”
Plan your run at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewildlife.ca.gov
- Phone+1 714-846-1114
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Huntington Beach
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Bolsa Chica Wetlands West Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 83 reviews
Popular walking and biking trail where coyotes and rattlesnakes are spotted.
bike / walking trail
5 ★★★★★ 6 reviews
Bolsa Chica Conservancy
4.7 ★★★★★ 524 reviews
Non-profit reserve dedicated to conservation & education offers beautiful views & bird-watching.
Huntington Beach Bike Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 8 reviews
Harriett M. Wieder Regional Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 328 reviews
Small, grassy 4-acre park with playground equipment, a picnic area, walking trails & native plants.
