Discover This Free Short Hike in Beautiful Palos Verdes

If you’re looking for a gorgeous short hike right by the ocean, the Alta Vincente trail is one of my favorite hidden gems to go to with my dog and travel buddy especially when the sun sets. It’s a two-for-one activity with your furry friend because Rancho Caninos Dog Park is also located next to this short hike.

This trail surrounds 55 acres of land and makes its way below and around Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall. As you walk along the narrow path, you will find that the city is currently working on a 15-acre habitat restoration project which started in 2008.

Good For:

Hiking	Mountain Biking	Horseback Riding
Dog-Friendly	No Crowds	Next to a Dog Park
Fresh Air	Photography	Ocean Views

Time: 26 minute hike

Distance: 0.92 miles (Loop Route)

Elevation: 136 ft

Hours Open: 1 Hour Before Sunrise to 1 Hour After Sunset

Parking Address:

Rancho Caninos Dog Park

30940 Hawthorne Blvd, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Starting Point:

Once you get to the dog park on the left, you can park adjacent to the fence or on the left of the tennis courts. Usually there is plenty of space to park, but if for whatever reason you can’t find a spot, you can park in guest parking at the city hall. It is all free. 

From the parking lot, walk towards the ocean. You will see a closed gate, but feel free to walk under it or around it as you make your way to the left. You will see a wooden table and bench. That is the start of your hike. You will go through a short forest-like narrow pathway that takes you down to two directions. It is a little steep, so make sure you have the right hiking shoes with good resistance. Go right. 

Be careful of cactuses surrounding the area as there are quite a lot of them. Depending on the season, you may find foxtails on the sides of the trail as well. Keep a close eye on your dog so he or she does not touch them. Work your way down the dirt path and you will find a few wooden stairs that lead you up to some old palm trees. Once you reach the top, you will be at the end of the trail and will find yourself at the RPV city hall parking lot.

Want a longer route? Try the Nike Trail.

Do you have a favorite trail? Please share!