Los Angeles California Hiking Areas

Hiking in LA: Exploring the Best Trails in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California is a hiker’s paradise, with its diverse landscape offering a wide range of trails for all skill levels. From scenic coastal routes to challenging mountain peaks, LA has something for every nature lover. Here are some of the best hiking areas in Los Angeles:

1. Runyon Canyon Park

  • Location: Hollywood Hills
  • Distance: 3-6 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and the Pacific Ocean; celebrity spotting

This popular hiking spot is a must-visit for any LA newcomer. The trail takes you through a scenic canyon with stunning views of the city.

2. Griffith Park

  • Location: Griffith Park
  • Distance: Various trails, up to 10 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to challenging
  • Highlights: Iconic observatory, zoo, and botanical gardens; hiking trails with city views

Griffith Park is one of LA’s largest urban parks, offering a variety of trails for hikers of all levels. Explore the park’s many attractions while taking in the breathtaking views.

3. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

  • Location: Malibu and Calabasas
  • Distance: Various trails, up to 40 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to challenging
  • Highlights: Scenic coastal routes, waterfalls, and mountain peaks; opportunity to spot wildlife

This national recreation area offers a range of trails that take you through coastal canyons, mountains, and forests. Enjoy stunning ocean views and picturesque waterfalls.

4. Echo Mountain

  • Location: Mount Wilson
  • Distance: 10-12 miles
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley; historic Echo Mountain House

Take on this challenging hike to reach the summit of Echo Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Topanga State Park

  • Location: Topanga Canyon
  • Distance: Various trails, up to 36 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to challenging
  • Highlights: Lush forests, scenic canyons, and mountain peaks; historic ranch house

This park offers a range of trails that take you through oak woodlands, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. Enjoy the tranquility of this natural oasis.

6. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area

  • Location: Agua Dulce
  • Distance: Various trails, up to 10 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Highlights: Unique rock formations, scenic vistas, and wildlife spotting

Explore this unique natural area featuring stunning rock formations, scenic views, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

7. Mount Wilson

  • Location: San Gabriel Mountains
  • Distance: Various trails, up to 14 miles
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of LA Basin; historic observatory

Take on this challenging hike to reach the summit of Mount Wilson, offering breathtaking views of the LA Basin and surrounding mountains.

8. Wildwood Canyon

  • Location: Burbank
  • Distance: 4-6 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Scenic canyon views, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting

This hidden gem offers a serene hiking experience with scenic canyon views, picturesque waterfalls, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Before you head out on your LA hiking adventure, remember to:

  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots
  • Check trail conditions and difficulty levels before heading out
  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife

Get ready to explore the best hiking areas in Los Angeles!