5 Hiking Trails In Banning To Kickstart Your 2025 Resolutions

BANNING, CA — With the holidays behind us, there’s no better way to kick off 2025 than by hitting the dusty trails to fulfill New Year’s resolutions of staying active and connecting with nature.

Recent studies have highlighted the numerous health benefits associated with lacing up your hiking boots for an adventure.

Hiking regularly can enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones and improve balance. A 2023 study published in BMC Public Health found that participants in a winter hiking intervention increased their physical activity levels, which led to better sleep and less stress.

But it isn't all about physical health. Spending time in nature — especially while hiking — has also been linked to better mental health. According to 2024 research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, exposure to green spaces can boost mood, reduce anxiety and lower the risk of depression.

Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, says even those who live in cities and work indoors can and should try to reap the health benefits of nature.

“If there are some green spaces a short or medium distance from home, try walking or biking to the green space to get the benefits of exercise while getting [there],” she said. “Or, find green space you could incorporate into your commute to or from school or work.”

AllTrails, a website and app that was "founded on the idea that we’re all made better by spending time in nature," makes it easy to find nature areas and hiking trails of varying levels near you.
While searching, the website allows users to set the distance, difficulty level, length, suitability and more.

In Banning and around Riverside County, the website lists dozens of scenic trails — from steep mountainous terrain that can take hours to ascend to quick and "easy" trails along babbling brooks and wildflowers.

Here are five trails in and within driving distance to Banning to explore

• South Fork to Dollar Lake Trail - This steady uphill climb to Dollar Lake is rated "hard," and recommended for experienced hikers. In the winter, hikers should be advised of snow conditions. Directions and more information here.
• Gillman Ranch Trail - This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is near Banning and is a moderately challenging hike, according to AllTrails. Directions and more information here.
• Airtech Towers Trail - Considered a moderately challenging hike, this trek only takes about an hour to complete with just a 462-foot elevation gain. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. Directions and more information here.
• Nicklaus Park Trails - Here's an easy loop for beginners near Calimesa. This one will take just about 16 minutes to complete. Directions and more information here.
• Oak Glen Preserve to Preservation Point - Near Yucaipa is this challenging but short trek to Preservation Point. The loop takes an average of 46 minutes to ascend. Directions and more information here.