If you are bursting with energy and feeling inclined (get it?) to reach the top of a mountain while enjoying a light summer breeze as you look over the horizon, look no further than Skyline Drive Trail.

Have you ventured out to Skyline Drive Trail in Corona? If so, you’re probably no stranger to the many twists, turns, and hidden pathways you may come across as you make your way through the trail. Based on individual skill and comfort level, Skyline Drive Trail can range from an easy morning stroll to an intermediate trek for more seasoned hikers and cyclists.

The Skyline Drive trail entrance is marked by a small sign on Foothill Parkway. Adventure seekers can access street parking and make their way to the trailhead.

At the end of the pavement, hikers can make a pit stop at the benches and bike repair station to make adjustments, apply sunscreen, and do some stretches before beginning their journey into the canyons. The entrance offers two main trails with varying levels of difficulty.

The tapered trail beyond the large rocks and wooden post board leads to Tin Mine Canyon Trail, a moderately challenging hike with diverse terrain mostly covered by tall brush and grass (we recommend wearing long pants for this trail). Heading into the canyon, walk about two miles up the narrowing trail and pay close attention to a short post leading to a slight left turn or you may miss the tin mine shaft.

Continue up the trail to find wooden ‘trail end’ posts marking the conclusion of the Tin Mine Canyon trail. Moving forward past the posts will lead up to Skyline Drive or Black Star Canyon Road, but it is not recommended to proceed past this point without skilled, off-trail navigation experience.

Are you looking for something with less brush and cover, overlooking a beautiful view of Corona? Make your way toward the sharp right turn on the open dirt road for the Lower Skyline Loop Trail. The trail begins uphill toward a wide, flat road perfect for hiking and biking. This trail is the more beginner-friendly option of the two and features numerous checkpoints for those who may not wish to travel the full 5.1-mile hike.

The Skyline Drive Trail is in the Cleveland National Forest and is a Public/Quasi-Public (PQP) land protected by the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP). As with any hike, please respect your surroundings, stay on trail, and stay hydrated. Happy hiking!