One of Orange County and LA’s most popular hikes is Mt. Baldy Summit.
This hike isn’t very technical or difficult in the summer. You could take a ski lift up to the devil’s backbone and hike up the last three miles. If you’re a trail runner, this should be easy. If you’re not very fit, then you’re definitely going to struggle.
In my opinion, the best way to enjoy Mt Baldy is to show up in the dark. Park at the ski lift. Run the first four or five miles up hill in the dark. (You’re definitely going to be hurting). And then, see the sunrise from somewhere in the mountains.
You’ll be among the first to summit and this is the only real way to enjoy peace and quiet on an otherwise heavily trafficked beginner friendly hike.