Home › California › Costa Mesa › Talbert Nature Preserve
Talbert Nature Preserve
4.3 ★★★★☆ 42 Google reviews · Running trail in Costa Mesa, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Talbert Nature Preserve yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. 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.
Public park with diverse greenery & a pond, plus a pedestrian trail system & biking area.
What runners say about Talbert Nature Preserve
“We are so fortunate to have these beautiful areas so near by.”
This is a lovely park with trails throughout the preserve and one that goes to the beach! Always wildflowers here and many people hiking, biking, or walking their dogs. There is also a picnic and day-use area that is always full of people enjoying the day.
Fun place to go for a leisure walk and explore. Lots of plants, flowers, birds, butterflies, and fresh air to enjoy.
It's a nice place to walk. Keep an eye out for coyotes. Take a loud a whistle or like Teddy R, carry a big stick.
Trail conditions & character
“We are so fortunate to have these beautiful areas so near by.”
“Always wildflowers here and many people hiking, biking, or walking their dogs.”
Plan your run at Talbert Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- 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.
- Websiteocparks.com
- Phone(949) 923-2250
Running trails near Costa Mesa
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Vista Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 349 reviews
Park featuring a playground and benches, plus picnic tables and grills.
Talbert Regional Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 201 reviews
Park divided into 6 areas by plant groups to showcase diverse habitats along the Santa Ana River.
Canyon Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 507 reviews
Basic park set in a residential neighborhood, with a playground, picnic tables & open green space.
Santa Ana River Trail Foot Bridge
4.8 ★★★★★ 12 reviews
North Talbert Trailhead
4.4 ★★★★☆ 82 reviews
Hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities are available at this park with scenic views.