Solo Female Hike: Borrego Trail in Orange County, CA

There's an easy trail in Foothill Ranch, CA called the Borrego Trail, ideal for those looking to do a quick solo stroll during a lunch break. If you've got 45-minutes to kill and happen to be near Lake Forest or Irvine, then this is the trail for you. 

Address: Baker Ranch Rd Lake Forest, CA 92610

Trail Difficulty

The trail is relatively easy and I'd consider it a nice stroll on paved ground. There is a bit of an uphill hike once you get closer to Alton Parkway but it's not too strenuous. 

Trail Distance

The trail is 1-mile long each way and I saw multiple people going back and forth. I was tired after 2 miles but it was the perfect way to get fresh air, sunlight and exercise. 

I appreciated the little workout areas on the trail. I was tempted to give it a try but I figured I'll try it next time. 

Mile markers were set up along the trail to give you a good sense of how far you've walked. Given the trail is paved and flat for the most part, I'm considering taking my bike here. 

Special Wildlife and Their Habitat at Baker Ranch

It was awesome to hear the Coastal California Gnatcatcher chirping and I was able to see a few squirrels run past me on the trail. I enjoyed the signs set up on the trail so I could learn more about the area. 

The Story Beneath the Trail (Sign Transcribed)

"This portion of Borrego Canyon Wash within the Baker Ranch Planned Community development exists predominantly as a deeply incised channel that has undergone significant erosion since the 1990s. As a part of the Baker Ranch development, the southerly bank of Borrego Wash required engineered improvements and enhancement of natural resources. 

The design features include the diversion of high flows into a reinforced concrete box, retention of low flows in the natural channel, and re-planting of the disturbed area with native plants to provide the following benefits: 

1. substantially reduce erosion potential

2. significantly reduce the disposition of silt in the downstream watershed (including Newport Bay)

3. continued infiltration of low-flow runoff to recharge groundwater

4. removal of invasive plant species

5. creation of high-quality natural habitat."

"The reinforced concrete box is located beneath the trail and extends the length of Borrego Wash adjacent to the Baker Ranch development. The box is designed to receive high stream flows which contributed to the significant erosion in the past. Upstream of the Baker Ranch Planned Community development, the division of water between the natural low flow channel and the reinforced concrete box can be regulated to achieve a healthy habitat in the Borrego Wash, while preventing further erosion in the channel." 

"The low-flow channel was planted with native plant species typical of the surrounding natural habitat following the construction of the engineered improvements with the goal of establishing native habitats to benefit local plant life and wildlife. The habitat restoration occurs under the guidance of a biologist and is monitored and maintained for long-term success and will be protected by a conservation easement to ensure long-term habitat value." 

Make sure to wear layers and bring sunscreen. I forgot my earbuds but hearing the birds chirping was enjoyable. Make sure to bring your essentials. While the trail was clean, make sure to always pack out all trash and don't disturb wildlife. 

It's important not to push yourself too hard. Turn back if conditions become unsafe or you're feeling unwell. I made sure to drink water throughout this trail. 

If you're coming from Towne Centre Drive, there's a steep uphill slope a mile from the Alton Parkway entrance. Make sure to wear sneakers or hiking shoes and take breaks as needed. I made sure to take a break midway and saw a few lizards.

Despite the trail being 1 mile each way, I would bring a water bottle. I was thirsty after 2 miles and with the sun beating down, make sure to bring, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. 

The trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.

I'm going to start taking my bike on trails in the future. If you're hiking solo like me, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings and for anyone sketchy behind you. Luckily, everyone I ran into was friendly and stayed to themselves. Overall, this trail was easy and I am going to start going more often. 

Have you been to this trail? Would you try it? Let me know in the comments. 

Don't forget to PIN this post!

Trip Resources

If you’re planning a road trip, here are some helpful sites that I use. Note, below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission for every booking, with no extra cost to you. Thanks so much, in advance!

Booking.com - Anytime we need a rental car, we use this site to find deals. 

Expedia.com - I like to use this site to explore upcoming cruises that I'd like to take. I also refer to it to compare hotel prices, flights, and car rentals. 

GetYourGuide.com - Book things to do, attractions, tours and discover new food. 

VRBO.com - When we’re not staying in an AIRBNB, we’re in a VRBO rental. We use this option when we want to enjoy a full house with individual bedrooms, a kitchen, backyard and other amenities. 

TripAdvisor.com - Anytime I want reputable reviews, tips, and overall advice about a vacation area, I leverage this site. 

Viator.com - Looking for cool tours in your vacation area? This site has a number of options.