How to Hike Bixby Knolls Park Trail

Bixby Knolls Park Trail is a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of Long Beach, California—a serene escape from urban bustle that offers panoramic ocean views, native flora, and a peaceful walking experience suitable for hikers of all levels. Though not as widely known as nearby trails like the Los Penasquitos Canyon or the Palos Verdes cliffs, Bixby Knolls Park Trail delivers a rich, immersive outdoor experience with minimal crowds and maximum reward. This trail is more than just a path through greenery; it’s a gateway to understanding the delicate coastal ecosystem, the history of Southern California’s urban-wildland interface, and the importance of preserving accessible natural spaces in densely populated regions.

For residents and visitors alike, learning how to hike Bixby Knolls Park Trail properly enhances safety, deepens appreciation, and ensures the trail remains enjoyable for future generations. Whether you’re a solo hiker seeking quiet reflection, a family looking for an afternoon adventure, or a photographer chasing golden-hour light over the Pacific, this guide provides everything you need to navigate the trail with confidence, respect, and enjoyment.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Visit

Before setting foot on the trail, take time to understand its layout, seasonal conditions, and access points. Bixby Knolls Park Trail is not a single linear route but a network of interconnected paths that loop through the park. The most popular loop is approximately 1.2 miles long, with gentle elevation changes and multiple vantage points.

Start by visiting the official City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation website to confirm trail hours, any temporary closures due to maintenance or wildlife protection, and parking regulations. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Avoid visiting during extreme heat advisories—summer temperatures can exceed 90°F, and shade is limited in certain sections.

Check the local weather forecast for wind conditions. Coastal winds can pick up unexpectedly, especially in the late afternoon. If you plan to hike during sunrise or sunset, bring a flashlight or headlamp, as the trail is not lit.

2. Choose Your Starting Point

The primary access point is located at the end of Bixby Knolls Drive, just north of the intersection with Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Look for the small, unassuming parking area with space for approximately 10–12 vehicles. There is no fee to park, but spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays.

An alternative entrance exists via the trailhead off of Ocean Avenue, near the corner of 51st Street. This route is slightly longer and steeper but offers a more gradual ascent and fewer crowds. If you’re hiking with children or prefer a less intense climb, this is the recommended starting point.

Use a GPS-enabled map app like AllTrails or Gaia GPS to mark your chosen entrance. The trail is well-signed from both points, but cell service can be spotty in the park’s interior, so download offline maps in advance.

3. Prepare Your Gear

While Bixby Knolls Park Trail is not a technical hike, proper preparation ensures comfort and safety. Here’s what to bring:

• Sturdy footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good tread are essential. The trail surface is mostly compacted earth and gravel, but loose rocks and uneven roots can cause slips.
• Water: Carry at least 16–20 ounces per person. There are no water fountains along the trail.
• Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit provide quick fuel. Avoid sugary snacks that attract wildlife.
• Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are critical. The trail is exposed in many areas.
• Lightweight jacket: Coastal fog and wind can chill the air, even on warm days.
• Phone and power bank: For emergencies and navigation. Keep it in a sealed, waterproof pouch.
• Trash bag: Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring in.

Do not bring dogs. While the park allows pets on leashes in the surrounding areas, the trail itself is part of a protected habitat for native birds and small mammals, and pets are prohibited to reduce disturbance.

4. Begin Your Hike

Once parked, locate the trailhead sign marked “Bixby Knolls Park Trail.” The initial section is a paved sidewalk that transitions into a dirt path after 150 feet. This transition point is easy to miss—look for a wooden sign with a trail map and a small metal plaque commemorating the park’s dedication in 1998.

As you begin ascending, the path winds gently uphill through native California sagebrush and coastal scrub. Keep your eyes open for wildflowers in spring—purple lupine, golden poppies, and blue elderberry bloom between March and May. The scent of sage is especially strong after a light rain.

At the 0.3-mile mark, you’ll reach your first viewpoint: a flat rock outcrop facing west. This is an ideal spot to pause, take in the ocean vista, and photograph the coastline stretching from Seal Beach to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The rock is smooth and safe to sit on, but avoid climbing on unstable ledges.

5. Navigate the Loop

Continue along the main trail as it curves left, climbing slightly more steeply. The path narrows here, flanked by tall grasses and occasional poison oak. Learn to identify poison oak: three glossy, lobed leaves that change color from green to red in fall. If you’re unsure, avoid touching any unfamiliar vegetation.

At the 0.6-mile mark, you’ll reach a junction. Take the right fork labeled “Loop Trail.” This section is slightly more rugged and shaded by live oaks and sycamores. The trail descends gently through a small canyon before rising again toward the western ridge.

The loop completes at the 1.1-mile mark, where the path rejoins the main trail near the original viewpoint. From here, retrace your steps to the trailhead. Alternatively, if you started from Ocean Avenue, you can continue down the northern spur to exit at 51st Street for a linear hike.

6. Complete Your Hike and Leave Responsibly

As you return to the parking area, take a moment to reflect on your experience. Bixby Knolls Park is not just a trail—it’s a living ecosystem shaped by centuries of natural processes and human stewardship.

Before leaving:

• Double-check your belongings. Forgotten items like water bottles or hats are common.
• Inspect your clothing and shoes for ticks or burrs. Coastal scrub attracts ticks, especially in spring and early summer.
• Dispose of all trash in a sealed bag. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels can disrupt local wildlife.
• Leave gates closed and signs undisturbed.

Consider sharing your experience on a local hiking forum or social media group to help others discover this hidden trail—without overcrowding it.

Best Practices

1. Hike During Off-Peak Hours

To truly appreciate the tranquility of Bixby Knolls Park Trail, avoid weekends between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. These are the busiest hours, especially for families and dog walkers (who must stay outside the trail boundaries). Instead, aim for early mornings on weekdays or late afternoons on weekdays. You’ll encounter fewer people, better lighting for photography, and cooler temperatures.

2. Respect Wildlife and Vegetation

The park is home to native species including the California gnatcatcher, western fence lizard, and the rare San Diego thorn-mint. These animals are sensitive to noise and human presence. Keep conversations quiet, avoid sudden movements, and never feed wildlife.

Stay on marked trails. Straying off-path damages root systems and compacts soil, leading to erosion and habitat loss. Even a single footstep outside the trail can disrupt decades of ecological recovery.

3. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Leave No Trace is not a slogan—it’s a responsibility. Follow these seven principles while hiking Bixby Knolls:

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Know the rules and weather conditions.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Stick to the trail.
3. Dispose of waste properly. Pack out all trash, including tissue and food wrappers.
4. Leave what you find. Don’t pick flowers, collect rocks, or carve names into trees.
5. Minimize campfire impacts. Fires are prohibited on the trail.
6. Respect wildlife. Observe from a distance.
7. Be considerate of other visitors. Yield to others on narrow paths and keep music to yourself.

4. Stay Hydrated and Watch for Heat Exhaustion

Even short hikes in coastal Southern California can lead to dehydration. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. If you or a companion begins to feel unwell, stop immediately, find shade, drink water slowly, and rest for at least 15 minutes. Do not continue hiking until you’ve fully recovered.

Wear light-colored, breathable clothing. Dark fabrics absorb heat. Cotton is acceptable, but moisture-wicking synthetics are better for sustained activity.

5. Know Your Limits

Bixby Knolls Park Trail is rated as easy to moderate. The total elevation gain is approximately 250 feet, and the terrain is mostly stable. However, individuals with mobility issues, asthma, or heart conditions should consult a physician before attempting the hike.

If you’re new to hiking, start with the first 0.3-mile loop to the viewpoint. You don’t need to complete the full trail to enjoy its beauty. Many visitors find the initial overlook to be more than sufficient for a fulfilling experience.

6. Use the Trail for Reflection, Not Competition

This trail is not a racecourse. Avoid rushing, taking selfies in dangerous spots, or trying to “conquer” the trail. The value of Bixby Knolls lies in its stillness—the rustle of wind through sage, the cry of a red-tailed hawk overhead, the distant crash of waves. Slow down. Breathe. Listen.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Apps for Navigation

While the trail is relatively straightforward, having digital tools enhances safety and experience:

• AllTrails: Offers user-submitted photos, trail conditions, and recent reviews. The Bixby Knolls Park Trail page includes GPS tracks and elevation profiles.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for offline map downloads. Its topographic layer helps visualize elevation changes.
• iNaturalist: Use this app to identify plants and animals you encounter. Your observations contribute to citizen science databases used by local conservation groups.
• Windy: A weather app with high-resolution wind and fog predictions for coastal areas. Essential for planning sunrise hikes.

2. Official Resources

Always verify trail conditions through official channels:

• City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation: www.longbeach.gov/parks — Check for alerts on trail closures, irrigation schedules, or invasive species removal.
• California Native Plant Society – South Coast Chapter: www.cnps.org — Offers seasonal wildflower bloom reports and native plant identification guides.
• Long Beach Coastal Cleanup Alliance: www.longbeachcoastalcleanup.org — Participate in monthly cleanups to help preserve the trail’s environment.

3. Books and Guides

For deeper context, consider these publications:

• Wildflowers of the Southern California Coast by Philip A. Munz — A field guide to identifying native blooms along the trail.
• California Hiking: A Guide to the Best Trails by David B. Searle — Includes a detailed section on urban trails like Bixby Knolls.
• Leave No Trace: Tips for the Modern Hiker by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics — A concise manual on ethical outdoor behavior.

4. Community Groups and Volunteer Opportunities

Joining a local hiking or conservation group enhances your connection to the trail:

• Long Beach Hiking Club: Hosts monthly guided hikes on Bixby Knolls and other local trails. Free to join.
• Friends of Bixby Knolls Park: A volunteer group that maintains signage, removes invasive plants, and leads educational walks. Visit their Facebook page to participate.
• California State Parks Volunteer Program: Offers training in trail maintenance and environmental education.

5. Photography and Observation Tools

Enhance your experience with simple tools:

• Compact binoculars: Spot birds of prey soaring above the bluffs or dolphins offshore.
• Field journal: Record weather, flora, fauna, and personal reflections. Many hikers return year after year to compare seasonal changes.
• UV-protective camera lens filter: Reduces glare from ocean reflections, improving photo quality.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Hiker

Emma, a 28-year-old software developer from Long Beach, had never hiked before. She was feeling overwhelmed by work stress and decided to try Bixby Knolls after reading a blog post about “urban nature escapes.” She arrived at 7:30 a.m. on a Tuesday, parked at the Bixby Knolls Drive entrance, and followed the trail slowly.

At the first viewpoint, she sat for 20 minutes, watching a red-tailed hawk circle above. She took a photo of a cluster of yellow poppies and later identified them using iNaturalist. She returned the next week, then the week after. Within three months, she had completed the full loop daily on her lunch break. “It’s not about fitness,” she says. “It’s about remembering I’m part of something bigger than my screen.”

Example 2: The Family Adventure

The Rodriguez family—parents and two children, ages 7 and 10—visited Bixby Knolls on a Saturday morning. They started from the Ocean Avenue entrance to avoid the steeper climb. They brought a small backpack with water, granola bars, and a printed trail map.

At the 0.5-mile mark, their daughter spotted a lizard sunning itself on a rock. The family paused to observe it quietly. The father used the moment to teach them about reptile thermoregulation. They didn’t complete the full loop—after 45 minutes, the kids were happy and tired. They left with a sense of accomplishment, not exhaustion.

“We didn’t need to go far,” says their mother. “We just needed to be together, outside.”

Example 3: The Conservation Volunteer

James, a retired biology teacher, joined Friends of Bixby Knolls Park in 2021. He now leads monthly invasive species removal events. One spring, he and a team of volunteers removed over 200 pounds of non-native ice plant that had been choking out native sagebrush.

“The trail isn’t just a path,” James explains. “It’s a living classroom. Every plant removed, every sign replaced, every child taught to respect nature—it all adds up.”

His favorite moment? Watching a group of middle schoolers from a local charter school plant native buckwheat seedlings along the trail’s edge. “They didn’t know the names of the plants,” he says. “But they knew they were doing something right.”

Example 4: The Photographer’s Journey

David, a landscape photographer from Santa Monica, came to Bixby Knolls for golden hour. He arrived two hours before sunset, set up his tripod at the main viewpoint, and waited. The fog rolled in from the ocean, softening the light. A flock of pelicans flew low over the water, silhouetted against the fading sun.

He captured 12 images that day. One—of a lone hiker walking the trail with the ocean behind them—went viral on Instagram. He didn’t tag the location. “I didn’t want to ruin it,” he says. “Some places are meant to be found, not advertised.”

He still returns every few months, always at different times of day. “The trail changes with the seasons,” he notes. “It’s never the same twice.”

FAQs

Is Bixby Knolls Park Trail suitable for children?

Yes. The trail is family-friendly, with gentle slopes and short distances. Children as young as 3 can enjoy the first viewpoint with supervision. Bring snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit. Avoid hiking during peak heat hours.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

No. Dogs are prohibited on the trail to protect native wildlife. They are permitted in the surrounding park areas if leashed, but not on the designated hiking path.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Spotty. Service is strongest near the parking areas and weakens in the canyon sections. Download offline maps and emergency contacts before you go.

How long does it take to hike the full trail?

Most hikers complete the 1.2-mile loop in 45–60 minutes at a leisurely pace. Allow extra time for photo stops, wildlife observation, or rest.

Is the trail accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

No. The trail surface is natural dirt and gravel with moderate inclines and uneven terrain. There are no paved or ADA-compliant sections.

When is the best time of year to hike Bixby Knolls?

Spring (March–May) offers the most vibrant wildflowers and mild temperatures. Fall (October–November) provides crisp air and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and foggy; winter is cool and occasionally rainy—ideal for solitude.

Can I camp on the trail?

No. Camping, fires, and overnight stays are strictly prohibited. The park is open only for day use.

What should I do if I see poison oak?

Do not touch it. Poison oak has three shiny leaves and may have white berries. If you brush against it, wash the area immediately with soap and cold water. Use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream if a rash develops. Seek medical attention if the rash spreads or blisters.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. The nearest public restrooms are located at the Long Beach Civic Center, about 1.5 miles away. Plan accordingly.

Can I bring a drone?

No. Drone use is prohibited in all City of Long Beach parks without a special permit, which is rarely granted for recreational use.

Is the trail safe at night?

Not recommended. The trail is unlit, and wildlife activity increases after dark. Always hike during daylight hours.

Conclusion

Hiking Bixby Knolls Park Trail is not about distance, speed, or achievement. It’s about presence. In a world that demands constant output, this quiet path offers something rare: stillness. The scent of sage after rain. The cry of a hawk riding the coastal wind. The way the ocean glows at sunset, turning the horizon into liquid gold.

By following this guide—planning ahead, respecting the land, moving slowly, and leaving no trace—you don’t just hike a trail. You become part of its story. You honor the generations of conservationists who fought to preserve this space. You model care for the children who will one day walk these same paths.

Whether you come for the view, the solitude, or the wildflowers, remember: the trail doesn’t need you to conquer it. It only asks that you walk through it with reverence.

So lace up your shoes. Bring your water. Leave your phone in your pocket—just for a little while. And step onto the trail.