The Perfect Morning: Orange County Trails near Locally-Owned Coffee Shops

In my pre-kid era, I would often go for an early hike followed with a visit to a local coffee shop. I went to college in Ventura County, so there were plenty of small coffee shops to support and trails to discover. Luckily, we also have many trails close to locally-owned coffee shops here in Orange County. Outdoor time + supporting small businesses = win-win in my book!

I have paired up trails and coffee shops below for you to have the perfect solo morning, or an adventure for the whole family. All of these trails are a 10 minute or less drive away from the coffee shop I paired them with. Most of them are walking distance away!

I have included AllTrails links for recent photos and reviews of the trails. As always, use your discretion on which trails are best suited for you and your family and always check conditions before heading out.

Back Bay + Covering Grounds (open Friday-Sunday) OR Stereoscope Coffee

Back Bay Loop is always a trail that I’ll recommend to families, especially those needing an easy, stroller-friendly trail. Free parking at the interpretive center and bathrooms there as well.

Covering Grounds is a mobile craft coffee shop, open on Fridays-Sundays from 8am-1pm. It is just across the street from part of the Back Bay Loop trail.

If you are looking for coffee on a weekday, check out Stereoscope Coffee. It is in a corporate center and paid parking is available in the structure, but they offer parking validation for up to two hours.

Covering Grounds: .8 mi, 3 minute drive, 14 minute walk from The Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center

Stereoscope Coffee: 2 mi, 6 minute drive from The Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center

Juanita Cooke Trail + Dripp Coffee

Juanita Cooke Trail is a hidden gem in Fullerton. You start near the North Justice Center and will soon find yourself on a beautiful trail shaded by lots of trees. We walked to Hiltscher Park, where you will find a small bridge that connects to the dirt bike trail along with art and tree stumps, so you can sit for a moment and really lean into the peaceful vibe here. Free parking at the North Justice Center parking lot and no restrooms.

Dripp Coffee is a cool, eclectic specialty coffee shop offering unique drinks, pastries, sandwiches and more. There is ample free parking tucked away behind the building, close to the McDonald’s. The courtyard is charming with plenty of space for the kids!

Dripp Coffee: .5 mi, 2 minute drive, 13 minute walk

Canyon Park + Nüdae Coffee

At the entrance, Canyon Park begins with the usual playground, but this urban nature spot offers more than that. It’s a mix of dirt and paved trails (I saw moms pushing strollers from the first lot to the further lot) and a large grassy area to play or relax on. Free parking in a dedicated lot, no restrooms. Note: I have read about hikers seeing coyotes here. There is always a risk of crossing paths with some kind of animal when outdoors, but please review trail information, park signs, and take precautions prior to visiting a trail.

Nüdae Coffee is a dog-friendly, community-centered coffee shop that has been the spot for many local pop-ups and gatherings. They also offer freshly made pastries and an assortment of breakfast items.

Nüdae Coffee: 2 mi, 8 minute drive

There is a closer entrance within walking distance (.2 mi, 5 minute walk) to Canyon Park, however the dirt path seemed steep so I don’t recommend it.

Red Rock Canyon + 3rd Place Coffee

Borrego Canyon Trail to Red Rock Canyon has been on my list to check out for a while, and I’m so excited to check it out at this month’s Moms Only hike! I was surprised that the trailhead is right off of a shopping center parking lot. However, a benefit to that is 3rd Place Coffee being just steps away from the trailhead! Note: This trail has multiple signs warning of mountain lion activity. There is always a risk of crossing paths with some kind of animal when outdoors, but please review trail information, park signs, and take precautions prior to visiting a trail.

The owner of 3rd Place Coffee has over 25 years of experience in the food and hospitality industry, and offers many options for breakfast and lunch. I’ve read great things about their breakfast burritos!

3rd Place Coffee: 400 ft from trailhead, 2 minute walk

Jeffrey Open Space Trail + Roosevelt Coffee

Jeffrey Open Space Trail is an urban hike along Jeffrey Road, with many areas to park and begin your adventure. Free parking in neighborhoods bordering the trail (we parked off of Grassland). Restrooms are available near the large grassy area off of Encore and Jeffrey Road.

Roosevelt Coffee is a family-owned coffee bar, offering kid beverages and locally-sourced pastries in addition to their coffee menu. This shop is tucked away in a business center but had plenty of free parking.

Roosevelt Coffee: 2 mi, 5 minute drive from the Jeffrey Road/Encore location OR just across Jeffrey Road near Cypress Community Park (the trail has many starting points)

Woodbridge Trail + The Lost Bean

Woodbridge Trail is an easy, paved trail located just outside of Woodbridge Village Center by North Lake. It is a pretty and peaceful trail, with wildlife (I saw a bunny, ducks, and squirrels) and benches along the way. Free parking in the Woodbridge Village Center lot and restrooms at the center.

I was originally introduced to The Lost Bean during a Mamas + Coffee Shops meet up. It is a popular spot, but for a good reason! I really enjoyed my latte and my toddler enjoyed her scone. The outdoor area is fun for the kids to play, if not walking the trail.

The Lost Bean: .2 mi, 5 minute walk to the Woodbridge trail. You will walk over the pedestrian/bike path over Barranca Parkway.

Buck Gully Trail + Rose Bakery Café OR Grounded Coffee House

Another consideration is Buck Gully Trail. Though the trail closes often during the rainy season, it is a popular spot for hikers of all levels in Orange County. Parking is free in the residential neighborhood (watch for no parking signs) and no restrooms. Check here for closure updates.

Rose Bakery Café and Grounded Coffee House are both close by off of PCH. Parking is difficult here, especially directly off of PCH.

Rose Bakery Café: .4 mi, 2 minute drive, 10 minute walk

Grounded Coffee House: .5 mi, 3 minute drive, 10 minute walk

I hope this helps you plan the perfect outdoorsy, caffeinated morning!

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