A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Ocotillo, California

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Goat Canyon Trestle via Mortero Palms

Hike Route

Goat Canyon Trestle via Mortero Palms

Views
moderate
2.91 mi
+1,448 ft
Elephant Knees

Hike Route

Elephant Knees

Views
strenuous
4.16 mi
+781 ft
Desert View Trail via Burnt Rancheria Campground

Hike Route

Desert View Trail via Burnt Rancheria Campground

Views
easy
2.09 mi
+247 ft
Monument Peak Hike

Hike Route

Monument Peak Hike

Views
easy
1.44 mi
+539 ft
Kitchen Creek Falls

Hike Route

Kitchen Creek Falls

Less Crowded
easy
4.78 mi
+819 ft
Pictograph Trail

Hike Route

Pictograph Trail

Views
easy
1.31 mi
+187 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Split Mountain Loop

Hike Route

Split Mountain Loop

Views
strenuous
13.42 mi
+1,549 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section A

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section A

Lake
extreme
104.37 mi
+16,431 ft
Split Rock Petroglyphs

Hike Route

Split Rock Petroglyphs

extreme
17.2 mi
+2,173 ft
Pinyon Mountains Loop

Hike Route

Pinyon Mountains Loop

Views
extreme
28.79 mi
+4,979 ft
Whale Peak Via Pinyon Wash

Hike Route

Whale Peak Via Pinyon Wash

Views
extreme
25.46 mi
+4,568 ft
Campo to Cottonwood Creek (PCT)

Hike Route

Campo to Cottonwood Creek (PCT)

Birding
strenuous
21.02 mi
+3,411 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Canebreak Canyon to Prom 2300

Hike Route

Canebreak Canyon to Prom 2300

Less Crowded
strenuous
5.42 mi
+1,476 ft