Introduction

Cerritos, CA, may be better known for its shopping centers and suburban charm, but it also offers convenient access to some of the best hiking trails in Southeast Los Angeles County. While Cerritos itself is relatively flat and urban, nearby communities such as Lakewood, La Mirada, and Whittier provide a variety of scenic paths, nature trails, and family-friendly walking routes. For residents and visitors searching for Cerritos hiking trails, the following guide highlights top options within a short drive, making it easy to plan your next outdoor adventure.

Cerritos And Nearby Area Hiking Overview

Because Cerritos is highly developed, most hikers look to neighboring cities for more traditional trail experiences. Fortunately, there are several well-maintained parks and greenways that deliver peaceful escapes from city life, as well as paved routes perfect for beginners, seniors, and families with strollers. From the bike-friendly San Gabriel River Trail to the rolling hills of the Whittier Turnbull Canyon area, you can enjoy diverse terrain while staying close to Cerritos.

Below is a helpful overview of some of the best hiking and walking options close to Cerritos, CA, all typically within a 10–25 minute drive.

Trail / Area	Approx Distance From Cerritos	Difficulty	Highlights
San Gabriel River Trail (Lakewood/Cerritos Access)	0–5 miles	Easy	Paved path, river views, biking and walking
Cerritos Iron-Wood Nine Trail Loop (La Mirada)	~5 miles	Easy–Moderate	Golf course views, gentle hills, neighborhood scenery
Heritage Park Walking Paths (Cerritos)	Within city	Easy	Family-friendly, lakes, themed structures
Liberty Park And Fitness Loop (Cerritos)	Within city	Easy	Paved loop, fitness stations, playgrounds
Turnbull Canyon Trails (Whittier)	~15–20 miles	Moderate	Hills, city and canyon views, varied terrain

San Gabriel River Trail Near Cerritos

The San Gabriel River Trail is a popular paved path that runs along the riverbed and can be accessed from nearby Lakewood and other adjacent cities. For Cerritos residents, this is one of the most convenient options for longer walks, runs, or bicycle rides. The trail is generally flat, making it suitable for all fitness levels, and it offers open views, breezes, and a sense of space that contrasts nicely with urban streets.

Because the route is paved and multi-use, it is ideal for beginners and casual walkers. However, hikers should be aware of cyclists and remain on the right-hand side of the path. Early mornings and late afternoons usually provide the most comfortable temperatures, especially in warmer months.

Cerritos Parks And Local Walking Loops

If you prefer to stay within city limits, Cerritos offers well-designed parks with attractive walking paths. Heritage Park features tree-lined walkways, water features, and thematic structures that give your walk a distinctive backdrop. This makes it a strong choice for families with children who want both fresh air and playtime.

In addition, Liberty Park and other neighborhood parks include fitness loops, grassy fields, and sports facilities. While these are not rugged hiking trails, they provide safe, accessible spaces for daily exercise, step goals, and light jogging. For many residents, these local loops are a practical starting point before tackling longer hikes in surrounding foothills.

Nearby Nature Trails And Hills

For hikers seeking more elevation and a traditional trail experience, the hills around Whittier and La Mirada are excellent options. Areas near Turnbull Canyon offer dirt paths, switchbacks, and panoramic viewpoints of the Los Angeles Basin. Trails here range from short out-and-back routes to longer loop hikes, allowing you to choose a distance that matches your fitness level.

Similarly, the Cerritos Iron-Wood Nine Trail Loop area in nearby La Mirada provides gently rolling terrain with views of a golf course and residential neighborhoods. This is a good intermediate step between flat city parks and steeper canyon hikes, and it remains close enough for a quick morning or weekend outing.

Conclusion

Although Cerritos, CA, is primarily suburban, it is surrounded by an impressive variety of accessible hiking and walking opportunities. From the paved San Gabriel River Trail and scenic neighborhood loops to the more challenging hills of Turnbull Canyon, there is a route for every interest and ability level. By exploring these nearby options, you can enjoy nature, improve your fitness, and discover new perspectives on the Cerritos area. With a bit of planning and the right trail, your next outdoor excursion can be both convenient and rewarding.