In Corona, Riverside County, the Holy Jim Trail within Cleveland National Forest offers a solid mix of hiking options for you and your dog. This dog-friendly trail winds through Cleveland National Forest with lush greenery, babbling streams, and views that make the effort worthwhile. The moderate difficulty level works for most fitness levels, and it’s genuinely pleasant to hike alongside your dog while taking in the quieter parts of the forest.

The variety of scents and sights along the trail keeps dogs engaged the whole way through. You’ll notice the landscape shifts as you gain elevation, and there’s enough shade in spots that even warmer days feel manageable. The streams mean your dog gets chances to cool off, though you’ll want to bring plenty of water anyway since you can’t count on finding reliable water sources throughout.

Keep your dog on leash—it’s the expectation here and honestly makes sense given the foot traffic and wildlife. Pack water and snacks for yourself too, since this isn’t a quick loop and you’ll appreciate a break somewhere along the way.

Before heading out, contact the local ranger station about current trail conditions and any fire restrictions that might be in effect. They have maps and can tell you whether recent weather has affected the streams or created washouts. The ranger station staff can also point you toward other dog-friendly trails in the area if Holy Jim becomes a regular for you. Since this is part of Cleveland National Forest, conditions change seasonally, so what works in spring might be different by summer.

The trailhead location in Corona makes it fairly accessible if you’re in the Inland Empire or heading inland from Orange County. Bring a good amount of water, a leash you trust, and expect to spend several hours out there. The trail delivers exactly what you’d hope for in a local hiking option without pretense.