Are dogs allowed on Dreaded Hill Loop Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Dreaded Hill Loop Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Dreaded Hill Loop Trail?

No, Dreaded Hill Loop Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Dreaded Hill Loop Trail?

Dreaded Hill Loop Trail is rated difficult. It is 4.8 miles long with 1,329 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

DifficultLoop

California

Dreaded Hill Loop Trail

Foothill Ranch, California

4.8 mi

Distance

1,329 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 8m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

It's possible the park will be closing during winter due to rain events. You can get water and information in the southernmost part of Four Corners. This approach is a bit softer than the other approach. The trail begins near four corners and goes through a small area before heading to 500 feet above sea level. It may be possible to view the Pacific from Catalina Island on good days. The Santa Ana mountains are to the northeast, and you have a wonderful opportunity to view them and Portola Hills. You can find the redrock face in the northwest corner. It is not relevant to the hikers' approach as they should be walking the loop in the direction that they take. The Serrano Cow Trail is the only trail connecting the line scars and the Dreaded Hill trail. There is a fine grove of sycamores and coast live oaks here. Relating this, the author said to watch for mule deer. If you leave small children at home, there will be mountain lions there.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:279 ft

Max:480 ft

405 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context