Uploaded May 2022 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Barbara's Lake hike: easy loop to one of OC's only natural lakes, with a short climb and ridge views (or out-and-back).
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Barbara's Lake is a 2.5 mile loop in Laguna Beach with about 500 feet of elevation gain. You can do it as an out-and-back to the lake or extend it over a ridge for open views. The lake itself is one of Orange County's only natural lakes and sits in a quiet pocket below the ridgeline. Trail is well-marked and moderate, good for a quick morning or afternoon. No permit required. Parking at the trailhead is limited but usually manageable outside of peak weekend hours.
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*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
Barbara's Lake hike: easy loop to one of OC's only natural lakes, with a short climb and ridge views (or out-and-back).
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
Barbara's Lake is a 2.5 mile loop in Laguna Beach with about 500 feet of elevation gain. You can do it as an out-and-back to the lake or extend it over a ridge for open views. The lake itself is one of Orange County's only natural lakes and sits in a quiet pocket below the ridgeline. Trail is well-marked and moderate, good for a quick morning or afternoon. No permit required. Parking at the trailhead is limited but usually manageable outside of peak weekend hours.
---
*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
