Exploring Los Angeles Hiking Trails: What You Need to Know

Los Angeles, a city often associated with its sprawling urban landscape, offers an unexpected treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the city is a haven for hikers of all skill levels. Surrounded by mountains and flanked by the Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles boasts more than 150 diverse hiking trails. Whether one seeks a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the city’s trails promise breathtaking views and a chance to escape the urban hustle.

Beginner Hiking Trails in Los Angeles

For those new to hiking or preferring a more relaxed pace, Los Angeles offers several beginner-friendly trails. These trails provide an excellent introduction to the city’s natural beauty without demanding too much physical exertion.

Fryman Canyon Park: This three-mile loop in Studio City offers a tranquil retreat from the busy metropolis. The trail, featuring a gentle elevation, showcases scenic views of the northern valleys and Sherman Oaks in the west.

Getty View Trail: This three-mile wide fire road, skirting the 405 freeway, provides vistas of the Getty Center and a distant glimpse of the gated Bel-Air community as you ascend and the traffic noise fades away.

Mount Hollywood: Starting at the iconic Griffith Observatory, this path guides hikers to a viewpoint that delivers a complete 360-degree view of Los Angeles, including Downtown L.A., the San Fernando Valley, and Century City. Parts of the trail also offer glimpses of the Hollywood Sign.

Runyon Canyon Park: Known for its popularity, Runyon Canyon’s trails offer expansive views of the L.A. Basin. Hikers can explore abandoned tennis courts, scorched palms, and remnants of a pool house that burned down in 1972.

Intermediate Hiking Trails in Los Angeles

For those looking to challenge themselves a bit more, Los Angeles offers several intermediate trails that combine moderate difficulty with stunning scenery.

Bee Rock (Old Zoo Hike): This four-mile hike navigates through relics of the original Los Angeles Zoo, ending at Bee Rock, a lookout point secured by a fence.

Murphy Ranch Trail: Located in Pacific Palisades, this 3.3-mile route features 529 steps leading to the graffiti-riddled vestiges of the WWII Murphy Ranch encampment.

Zuma Canyon Trailhead: This 3.1-mile loop in Malibu offers vistas of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway and the Pacific Ocean.

Rivas Canyon Trail: Starting past the guard gate of Will Rogers State Historic Park, this 4.1-mile trail offers shade from a dense tree canopy and views of cacti, ferns, and luxurious homes.

Expert Hiking Trails in Los Angeles

For seasoned hikers seeking a more rigorous adventure, Los Angeles offers several challenging trails that promise both physical exertion and rewarding vistas.

The Bridge to Nowhere: Located in Asuza, this 10-mile trail requires endurance. Built in 1936, the bridge became a popular bungee jumping spot after the road washed away in 1938.

Brush Canyon Trail: This 6.1-mile trail offers panoramic views of Los Angeles and overlooks the back of the Hollywood Sign. Hikers should be prepared for horse droppings due to nearby stables.

Topanga State Park Trails: One trail leads to Parker Mesa Overlook, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, Downtown L.A., and the San Gabriel Mountains. On clear days, Catalina Island is visible.

Westridge Trail: Starting north of Brentwood’s Mandeville Canyon, this eight-mile hike ends at the historic Nike Station, an abandoned military radar station with picnic tables and expansive views.

Our Ultimate Guide to Hiking Near Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not just a city break destination; it’s a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures. The city’s geography, flanked by the Santa Monica Mountains to the north and the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains to the east, offers a variety of hiking experiences.

Griffith Park: Enclosing the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park is a convenient hiking destination. The classic hike to the Hollywood Sign can be accessed via several routes, with the most direct starting on North Beachwood Drive. The park also offers trails to the Griffith Observatory and the Wonder View Trail to Burbank Mountain.

Orange County: South of Downtown L.A., Orange County offers trails like the Borrego Canyon and Red Rock Canyon trails in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. These trails provide a mix of wooded areas and steep-sided red rock canyons.

The Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains: This vast area offers trails ranging from family-friendly hikes to advanced mountaineering routes. Notable hikes include Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy), Switzer Falls, Stoddard Peak, and Trail Canyon Falls.

The Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area: Situated on the edge of the desert, this area offers a unique hiking experience with trails following the rim of a large canyon. The Devil’s Chair trail provides a more strenuous option.

Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains: Known for its beautiful beaches, Malibu also offers trails like the Cistern and Lookout Trail in Malibu Creek State Park, Mesa Peak, and Sandstone Peak. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Pacific Ocean.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city of contrasts, offering both urban attractions and natural beauty. For occasional travelers, we recommend starting with the beginner trails to get a feel for the city’s hiking culture. Griffith Park is a great place to start, offering convenient access and iconic views.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the more challenging trails in the Angeles National Forest or the San Gabriel Mountains. These areas offer a variety of trails that can be combined for a multi-day hiking adventure.

In conclusion, Los Angeles is more than just a city; it’s a gateway to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert hiker, the city’s diverse trails offer something for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack plenty of water, and embark on an adventure that showcases the natural beauty of Los Angeles. Happy hiking!