Best hiking trails
The best hiking trails in Los Angeles offer diverse landscapes, scenic views, and a refreshing escape into nature, perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
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Griffith Park Trails, Runyon Canyon, and Franklin Canyon Park are some of the top hiking spots in the city. Griffith Park Trails cover an expansive area with numerous paths leading to the iconic Griffith Observatory, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood sign. Runyon Canyon, a favorite among locals and celebrities alike, provides a lively atmosphere with steep, challenging paths and rewarding vistas of downtown L.A. and the Pacific Ocean. Franklin Canyon Park, known for its peaceful ambiance, features shaded trails, a duck-filled lake, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more relaxed hike. Together, these trails offer something for every hiker, from iconic L.A. landmarks to serene nature escapes, showcasing the region’s rich natural beauty.
Griffith Park TrailsView AllGriffith Park Trails - Iconic LA views and historic sites in every step.
Runyon CanyonView AllRunyon Canyon - Popular hike with epic LA skyline views.
Franklin Canyon ParkView AllFranklin Canyon Park - Peaceful oasis with lakes and nature trails.
Wilacre ParkView AllWilacre Park - A refreshing hike with valley views and fresh air.
Eaton CanyonView AllEaton Canyon - Waterfall hike with lush scenery and stream crossings.
Will Rogers State Historic ParkView AllWill Rogers State Historic Park - Historic park with picturesque trails and ranch views.
Topanga State ParkView AllTopanga State Park - Escape into nature with endless trails and views.
Malibu Creek State ParkView AllMalibu Creek State Park - Adventure awaits in LA’s beautiful backcountry.
Solstice CanyonView AllSolstice Canyon - Serene canyon hike with waterfalls and ruins.
Escondido CanyonView AllEscondido Canyon - Lush hike with a rewarding waterfall at the end.
Best hiking trails
1.
Griffith Park Trails
Griffith Park Trails offer numerous paths with sweeping views of Los Angeles, including the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign. The diverse terrain provides routes for all skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Pros
Stunning views- Historical landmarks
- Pet-friendly
- Multiple trail options
- City access
Cons
Crowded- Limited shade
- Parking issues
- Steep inclines
- Can get hot
2.
Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon is known for its social scene and panoramic city views, attracting locals, celebrities, and tourists alike. The trails are moderate in difficulty, and it's a favorite spot for dog-walkers and fitness enthusiasts.
Pros
- Amazing views
- Dog-friendly
- Social vibe
- Close to Hollywood
- Good workout
Cons
- Crowded
- Limited parking
- Hot in summer
- Steep areas
- Erosion issues
3.
Franklin Canyon Park
Franklin Canyon Park offers a peaceful escape with serene lakes and lush greenery. It has easy-to-moderate trails, perfect for birdwatching, picnicking, or casual strolls through the park’s rich natural habitat.
Pros
- Quiet
- Scenic lake
- Family-friendly
- Good for beginners
- Wildlife
Cons
- Limited facilities
- Can get muddy
- Narrow trails
- Limited shade
- Parking fees
4.
Wilacre Park
Wilacre Park features the Betty B. Dearing Trail, which offers scenic valley views and is known for its wide paths and moderate incline, ideal for a quick hike with rewarding views.
Pros
- Good valley views
- Wide trails
- Moderate difficulty
- Clean facilities
- Dog-friendly
Cons
- Crowded weekends
- Limited parking
- Sun exposure
- High foot traffic
- Few shaded spots
5.
Eaton Canyon
Eaton Canyon is famous for its waterfall at the end of a scenic trail filled with native flora and occasional stream crossings. This family-friendly hike offers an adventurous yet accessible experience, especially during the spring months.
Pros
- Waterfall
- Scenic nature
- Stream crossings
- Family-friendly
- Pet-friendly
Cons
- Crowded
- Waterfall seasonal
- Limited parking
- Can be slippery
- Some areas muddy
6.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
This park features trails that pass through historical Will Rogers Ranch, offering scenic mountain and ocean views. The moderate Inspiration Point hike is popular and provides an educational experience on LA’s rich history and natural beauty.
Pros
- Historical site
- Ocean views
- Educational
- Well-maintained
- Family-friendly
Cons
- Limited parking
- Entrance fees
- Busy weekends
- Steep parts
- No dogs on some trails
7.
Topanga State Park
Topanga State Park offers extensive trails through coastal landscapes with breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Its challenging trails appeal to avid hikers looking to explore diverse terrain and enjoy California’s natural beauty.
Pros
- Stunning views
- Diverse terrain
- Less crowded
- Wildlife
- Great exercise
Cons
- Remote
- Limited facilities
- Few shaded areas
- Rough terrain
- Difficult parking
8.
Malibu Creek State Park
Known for its rock pools, mountain views, and film locations, Malibu Creek State Park offers a variety of scenic trails for all levels. It’s a family-friendly destination for hiking, picnicking, and exploring California’s rugged landscape.
Pros
- Rock pools
- Film location
- Family-friendly
- Scenic views
- Good facilities
Cons
- Crowded on weekends
- Hot in summer
- Limited shade
- Entrance fees
- Long drive from city
9.
Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon is known for its unique mix of waterfalls, historic ruins, and scenic trails through Malibu. It offers a moderate, shaded hike, allowing visitors to explore the remains of the Keller House and other historical structures.
Pros
- Waterfalls
- Historic ruins
- Shaded areas
- Pet-friendly
- Moderate difficulty
Cons
- Limited parking
- Can get crowded
- Limited facilities
- Seasonal water flow
- Longer drive
10.
Escondido Canyon
Escondido Canyon’s highlight is the Escondido Falls, reached after a moderately challenging hike. The trail offers beautiful scenery with plenty of greenery, making it a popular spot for those looking for a waterfall adventure near Malibu.
Pros
- Waterfall
- Scenic views
- Pet-friendly
- Moderate difficulty
- Popular
Cons
- Seasonal waterfall
- Slippery in places
- Limited parking
- Can be crowded
- Muddy after rain