Best Hiking Trails in Los Angeles for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Looking for the best hiking trails in Los Angeles? Whether you're getting ready to hike, bike, trail run, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails has 143 scenic trails in the Los Angeles area. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you.
Explore one of 44 easy hiking trails in Los Angeles or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Check out some trails with historic sights or adventure through the nature areas surrounding Los Angeles that are perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts at any skill level.
Visitors should use the Brush Canyon Trail from Canyon Drive, two blocks to the east of Beachwood Drive off Franklin, or Griffith Observatory. Canyon has a parking lot, sidewalks, trash cans, and facilities for visitors. Parking is limited and fills up quickly at Griffith Park so using the DASH Observatory shuttle is recommended. This shuttle runs every 15 to 20 minutes between 10 AM to 10 PM and is wheelchair accessible. Due to multiple portions of the trail having a steep grade above 12%,...
This is a relatively easy hike to the iconic Hollywood sign. The views are spectacular and the trail is mostly a gradual climb until you get closer to the top. There is little shade along the way. Bring plenty of water, especially in the summer. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. This is a very popular trail, so expect to encounter others on your hike.
This is a very popular urban hike in Griffith Park offering fantastic views of Los Angeles. There is little to no shade on this route so bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. Glendale Peak and Dante's View are the sought-after summits of this hike. You can take an optional side trip to the summit of Mount Hollywood from this route as well.
This is a popular hiking trail for a picture-perfect view of the Hollywood sign. It's a short walk with a slight incline, featuring a mix of dirt paths and roads through a residential area. This route offers amazing views of the city and the sign.
There's very little shade, but you'll find a water fountain along the trail.
This trail features views of Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood sign. The trail is steep in sections and can get slippery after it rains. Use caution in these areas. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained. Keep an eye out for lovely wildflowers blooming along the trail in the spring. This is a great sunrise or sunset hike.
Fern Canyon, Hogback, North, Bill Eckert, and Upper Old Zoo Loop
This trail takes you on a loop along the eastern side of Mount Hollywood. Although this trail does not summit the peak, expect stellar views. On a clear day you can see all of Los Angeles. It's a good idea to get there early, especially in the summer in order to avoid heat and crowds. There is little shade on this hike, so hiking later in the day is also a good idea. Bring plenty of water!
This hike takes you to Cahuenga Peak (1,821 ft) in Griffith Park via the Burbank Peak Trail. Although the path is relatively short, be prepared for a steady, steep incline and decline, which includes a rocky scramble.
You'll be rewarded with views of Los Angeles and the back of the Hollywood sign. After reaching the peak, you can continue to the sign. It's recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring trekking poles for the descent.
This trail offers views of the ocean and the city at various spots, along with a few great areas for users to enjoy picnics. You may even enjoy a nice breeze from the Pacific Ocean on your trip back down.
At the two mile point where the trail enters Topanga Park, there are signs that dogs are not allowed, however dogs are allowed before that point.
Begin on Fern Dell near Trails cafe. As you began the ascend, take the east trail (trail to the right) up to the Observatory. This is an all uphill hike so pace yourself. If you end up taking the west trail (left) it is ok because they eventually meet up. There isn't any shade on this trail until you are almost at the Observatory. Once you arrive at the Observatory (0.9 mile hike), take a bathroom break and refill your water. You will find the toilets and fountains near the parking lot. ...
Captain's Roost via East Observatory Trail to Charlie Turner Trail
The trail features Griffth Observatory, Astronomers Monument, Berlin Forest, and Captain's Roost. Griffth Observatory is free to access for the public; however, there is a fee to park here. Along the trail, you will be rewarded with stunning views overlooking Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. This trail has a gradual incline towards Captain's Roost. Some sections are sandy and scramble-like due to loose dirt.
I went in the afternoon when it was 82+ degrees so definitely recommend going early morning or afternoon when it's cooler. Other than that the hike is fun. Incline on the way up but much easier on the way back down.
Trail was awesome! Super wide and roomy, pretty straightforward. You go in and out of some neighborhoods which was fine. Really really great views of all of LA and the valley.
Easy trail, we had no issues parking but we got there early. When we left at 1130 it was packed. My 12 and 9 yr old took the hike with us but my 9 year old was over it toward the end, his legs were tired but he got a second wind and even did a little celebratory jog at the end. There were a few trash cans and a water station. We saw some wildlife in the distance and saw some amazing views.
A bit busy on a sunday but very pretty and well kept!
Fern Canyon, Hogback, North, Bill Eckert, and Upper Old Zoo Loop
Fern Canyon, Hogback, North, Bill Eckert, and Upper Old Zoo Loop
For those that want to run it, it is very arduous. Perfect for those that are athletic already.
Historical Context and Evolution
- Los Angeles has a rich history of hiking trails, with the popularity of outdoor activities growing over the years.
- AllTrails has played a significant role in providing access to information about hiking trails in Los Angeles, offering detailed trail maps, reviews, and photos.
- The availability of diverse trails, including easy hikes, kid-friendly routes, and trails with historic sights, has made Los Angeles a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
- Griffith Park, home to many iconic trails, has become a hub for hikers and nature lovers, offering stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign.
Analytical Insights
According to AllTrails.com, there are various types of hiking trails in Los Angeles:
- 112 hiking trails
- 104 running trails
- 87 walking trails
- And more
The longest trail in Los Angeles, as per AllTrails.com, is Sullivan Fire Road to Backbone Trail Loop, with an ascent of 926m, making it the trail with the most elevation gain in the area. Cahuenga Peak, Mount Lee (Hollywood Sign), and Griffith Observatory follow closely with 908m of elevation gain.
The most popular and difficult trail in Los Angeles, based on a 4.4-star rating from 1,526 reviews, is Wisdom Tree, Cahuenga Peak and Mount Lee Summit Loop.
According to AllTrails.com, there are 104 running trails in Los Angeles, with the Hollywood Sign via Canyon Drive being the most popular, boasting an average 4.7-star rating from 4,545 community reviews.
Additionally, there are 15 biking trails in Los Angeles, with Veteran's Park Trail being the most popular, averaging a 4.6-star rating from 2,604 community reviews.
Future Outlook
The future of hiking trails in Los Angeles looks promising, with the continued popularity of outdoor activities and the availability of diverse trails catering to different preferences and skill levels.
As more people discover the beauty and benefits of hiking, it is expected that the demand for well-maintained trails and amenities will increase. This may lead to further improvements in trail infrastructure, such as parking facilities, restrooms, and water stations.
Furthermore, the integration of technology, like AllTrails, will likely continue to play a crucial role in providing hikers with easy access to trail information, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Overall, the future of hiking trails in Los Angeles is bright, with the city's natural beauty and commitment to outdoor recreation making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
