Located in Newhall in Los Angeles County, Rice Canyon Loop Trail offers a straightforward outdoor experience for hikers and dogs alike. This easy to moderate 1.2-mile loop follows the scenic Rice Creek, providing a tranquil setting for a leisurely walk through a landscape that feels surprisingly removed from the surrounding development.

The trail itself is designated for hikers only, but dogs are welcome to tag along, making it a solid choice if you’re looking for something low-key without much elevation gain. As you make your way along the path, you’ll cross Rice Creek several times—nothing dramatic, just enough to keep things interesting. The creek crossings are manageable even in winter when water flow is higher, though you’ll want to watch your footing on the rocks.

Midway through, the trail opens up to a grassy slope that gradually climbs toward a viewpoint where you can actually see across the Santa Clarita area. It’s not a sweeping vista, but it’s nice to break up the creek-side walking. The unique part comes near the end of the loop: there are natural oil seeps visible along the streamside. These show up as dark stains and patches on the rocks and soil, a geological oddity that makes you realize you’re walking through an area with some petroleum-related history beneath the surface.

The trail doesn’t have the crowds you’d find at more famous Santa Clarita hikes, which means a quieter experience if you’re hiking on a weekday. The shade from native oaks and sycamores along the creek helps on warmer days. Water crossings mean your dog will get wet, so bring a towel if that bothers you. The parking area has a small lot right at the trailhead entrance, and there’s typically space available even on weekends.