By Although we didn’t explore new trails in 2022 as much as we had in the past, there are still a few we managed to add to our ever-growing list. I was looking for new moderate hikes to add to our guided hike list when I came across Hogador Canyon in Corona, CA. Hogador Canyon seemed like exactly what I was looking for, so we took a trip to Corona one January morning.
Note: If you plan to hike with your dog, please choose cooler months to do this hike.
We parked on W Foothill Pkwy near the Skyline Drive Trailhead and began the hike on Skyline Drive. Street parking is free.
Until you are out of the residential area, you will walk on the pavement. The fantastic rock formations kept this section interesting enough.
There was no sign for the Hagador Canyon and Skinsuit trailhead but know that it appears 0.5 miles into the hike when you are still on the pavement. You need to cross over the railing. I missed it and continued on Skyline Dr. I didn’t realize this until later but that’s alright! That’s part of the fun of exploring a new place anyway!
We never explored this area before, assuming it is probably dry and bare. But, oh boy, I was in for a treat!
When we finally left the pavement at about 3/4 miles, the scenery was pretty and I could see a glimpse of a great hike. And, we were finally alone. Just us and nature.
We got giddy as we can only get on open empty trails.
We continued on the fire road until we reached Tin Mine Canyon. From the trailhead to the Tin Mine Canyon sign is 1.5 miles.
The area was secluded and peaceful, so I decided to go further into Tin Mine just a little more until the next junction. When we reached the junction, we turned left. By looking at the map, it looked like we could use this trail to cross over to Skinsuit Trail and take that to Hogador Canyon.
Then, we ran into this section without my trekking poles.
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Xena made it look easy but I tried hard not to slide down on that slippery rock. The loose ground didn’t help. When I managed to get up to the top and more of the same steep climb was waiting for us. I decided that was enough. We retraced our steps to the fire road and began looking for another way, an easier way, to Hogador Canyon.
After all, I was looking for a new moderate-rated hike. Back to the flat land.
We took fun little detours here and there to explore more of the area before we reached the Hagador Canyon sign.
The Hagador Canyon Trail is partly shaded. With a low elevation gain and stream-crossing, it is fun for the entire family.
Not a fan of graffiti, though…
We had the trail to ourselves in the morning. If you need room to roam without running into other hikers, go early.
We ended up hiking 7 miles that day and absolutely enjoyed exploring Hogador Canyon! At the end of the day, we added a new moderate hike to our guided hike list.
Since there are many trail options available, you can make the hike shorter or longer and moderate or challenging as you wish.
Our guided hike version is 4.6 miles in distance and offers a multiple stream crossing. It’s fun and beautiful!
It is so pretty this time of the year, but I’d imagine that it can get super muddy and the creek swells up after heavy rains like the ones we’ve been getting this year. So, if you are hiking with little ones, you might want to give it a few days before you try this hike.
Good to Know:
- Hike Date: 1.18.22
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Total Distance: 6.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 925 ft.
- Fee/Permit: None
- Trailhead: Skyline Drive Trailhead
- Notable: well-maintained, no restroom, sporadic cell phone reception, open year-round, free street parking, many trail options
Hiking Girl with Dog 
That one looks like fun!
I really enjoyed reading about this hike as you had mentioned how much you liked it. Xena looks happy on the trail too!! Fabulous photos!
Thanks, Margaret! We had fun that day! Now I am inspired to check out more trails near Corona. Who knew!
One of my dream places. Thank you for sharing this I enjoyed reading your article you make my heart so happy. Your dog is super cute.