If you’re in need of a break from the city or a break from listening to struggling screenwriters talk about their epic ideas at your local coffee shop, this list of the best hikes in Los Angeles is for you.
Best hikes with dogs in Los Angeles
L.A. is one of the most dog-friendly cities and that includes hiking trails. Here are some great hiking trail options for you and your pup.
Griffith Park
Located in the eastern Santa Monica Mountain range, Griffith Park is a great spot for hiking. The park offers a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, camping and, of course, hiking.
The park also allows dogs on certain trails, making it a perfect spot for dog owners to connect with nature. The Bronson Caves and Old Zoo Road trails are two popular trails within the park that allow dogs to roam off-leash.
Runyon Canyon
Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, Runyon Canyon is a favorite among L.A. dwellers. If you’re looking for quiet time, this hike might not be for you as it can be a bit crowded. Although this hike does draw a crowd, it also offers some of the most amazing panoramic views of Los Angeles.
Runyon Canyon is another great hike that allows dogs to be off-leash. Another great bonus about Runyon Canyon is you might just bump into your favorite celeb.
Will Rogers State Park
During the Golden Age of Hollywood, actor Will Rogers bought 359 acres of land. When he passed away, his wife donated the property to the state of California, and today, it’s a beautiful public park.
There’s everything from house tours to horse riding lessons to hiking. The Rivas Canyon trail is about a four-mile mile hike that your pooch can join, too.
Best beach hikes in Los Angeles
L.A. has some scenic beach hikes, so grab your swimsuit and get going.
Paseo Miramar
Located near the Pacific Palisades, Paseo Miramar trail is a moderate hike that offers amazing ocean views. The lookout point at the top offers views of everything from the city skyline to the ocean and even Catalina Island.
Corral Canyon
Settled in Malibu on 100 acres of almost untouched land, Corral Canyon is a perfect pick if you’re looking for an ocean view. The hiking trail is relatively easy, but once you get to the top you’ll feel as if you’re standing on top of the ocean.
Point Dume
Located in Malibu, Point Dume is a rockier hike than most, although it’s still a relatively moderate hike. Take some time meandering on the trail until you head to the bluff face where you’ll be met by an old, rusty staircase. From there you can walk down to the sandy beaches of Malibu.
Best family hikes in Los Angeles
Looking for some outdoor family-friendly fun? Here are some easy hikes the entire family can enjoy.
Ernest E. Debs
Slightly northeast of downtown L.A. sits 300 acres of land known as Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. This park offers many family-friendly hikes, as well as activities the entire group can enjoy.
Solstice Canyon
Situated between Pepperdine University and Point Dume, Solstice Canyon is one of the most family-friendly hike options around. The trail doesn’t have much of an incline of rocky terrain making it very stroller friendly. There’s beautiful wildlife and even a micro waterfall for the kids to explore.
Best waterfall hikes in Los Angeles
When you think of L.A., waterfalls probably don’t come to mind. However, Los Angeles has some beautiful falls that are accessible via hiking.
Sturtevant Falls
Located near Arcadia, Sturtevant Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls SoCal has to offer. Surrounded by abandoned-looking cabins, this trail is moderate, as it starts off on an incline. The nearly three-and-a-half-mile hike does attract a crowd so keep that in mind while planning your trip to this trail.
Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon hike is a must for anyone who enjoys waterfalls. It’s a roughly four-mile hike that leads to a 40-foot-tall, magnificent waterfall. A great time to do this hike is in the springtime when all its amazing flowers are blooming.
Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls sits inside Wildwood Park in Thousand Oaks. This four-mile hike leads through a cave and eventually ends up the waterfall with a 40-foot drop into a pool. Due to the popularity of the park, there are many different trails that will lead you to Paradise Falls.
Best sunset hikes in L.A.
What’s better than a beautiful hike? A hike that has amazing sunset views! Take a hike at sundown on these trails and catch a glimpse of orange skies as the sunsets.
Verdugo sunset
Also located in Wildwood Park is the Verdugo hike, which is one of the best ones in Los Angeles for sunset or sunrise views. This hike is short but oh so sweet. It’s a roughly 15-minute hike one way but if done at sunset it’ll lead you to some amazing views.
Escondido Canyon
Right off of Pacific Coast Highway, Escondido Canyon — also known as the hidden gem of Santa Monica — boasts some of the best sunset views in L.A. On the trail, you’ll hike through oak trees, sagebrush and even see some waterfalls, all while enjoying the amazing sunset.
Don’t miss the best hikes in Los Angeles
Although hiking might not be the reason to visit L.A., it’s most definitely something you should do while you’re there. It’s a great way to get out of the city, clear your head and enjoy nature. Hopefully, with this list of the best hikes in Los Angeles, you’ll get out a little more.
