The 13 Best Hikes in Los Angeles

By Abigail Pacheco and Hannah George

It’s time to get out into nature and escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. These are 13 of the best hikes in L.A., ranging from difficult to easy for hikers of all abilities.

Photo Courtesy of JuanCarlos Chan/City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Runyon Canyon

With a striking view of the Hollywood sign, the greater L.A. area and even the ocean, Runyon Canyon attracts plenty of visitors per day to trek the winding course inside this 160-acre Eastern Los Angeles park. Only slightly challenging, this is a great hike to take beginners on or to treat out-of-town guests to a slice of the city’s wellness culture.

Runyon Canyon; photo Courtesy of JuanCarlos Chan/City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Fryman Canyon

Located in Studio City, Fryman Canyon Park features 122 acres of lush greenery, fitness courses and the Betty B. Dearing Cross Mountain Trail. Year-round, Angelenos venture here to check out bubbling springs, wooded canyons and native chaparral. Leashed dogs are welcome, too!

Will Rogers State Historic Park

Recognized as a California State Park, Will Rogers State Historic Park—named after the 1930s Hollywood actor—has something for everyone, including ranch house tours and horseback riding lessons. Embark on a two-mile hike to Inspiration Point or tackle the Backbone Trail National Trail, a challenging trek into the Santa Monica Mountains that continues for 70 miles.

Rising Sun Trail

Malibu’s unequivocal beauty can be appreciated from sea level—and nearly 700 feet above it! The Rising Sun Trail is a mildly difficult undertaking with a 469-foot elevation gain, winding through rocky knolls, steep paths and thick forests. Be sure to stop by the canyon’s ruins of a once Paul-Revere-Williams-built estate.

The West Observatory Trail

Beginning in Griffith Park, this beginner-friendly hike is relatively easy and transports hikers straight to the incredible Griffith Observatory. With a distance of two miles, frequent trailblazers note this hike takes around two hours, perfect for an afternoon activity this summer in Los Angeles.

Griffith Park; photo Courtesy of JuanCarlos Chan/City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Temescal Canyon Park

This beloved three-mile hike loops into the mountains of the Pacific Palisades with a staggering 833-foot elevation gain. Scenic views of the mountains, ocean and city make this trail so popular, although moderate hiking experience is recommended.

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

For those looking for a quick escape from the city, traverse the Baldwin Hills steps, an efficient workout that ends with stunning scenery of the downtown area, the Los Angeles Basin and beyond. Or opt for the short and sweet hiking trail that crowns the 58-acre property.

El Scorpio Canyon Park

This 2.1-mile hike takes two hours and is on the moderate side. It lets you explore the Cave of Munits and Simi Hills. These caves have a long history of rich Native American culture and are beautiful to see once in your life.

Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa

This hike is for sight seekers. This moderate option is 7.3 miles and takes about 4 hours. Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa takes you through Topanga State Park and gives you remarkable views of the Pacific Ocean that you can’t get anywhere else in L.A.

Santa Anita Canyon

For waterfall lovers, the Santa Anita Canyon is definitely a must-do trail. Coming in at 8.7 miles and taking about 4.5 hours, this hike ranges on the moderate side. Thankfully, if hiking isn’t your thing, you can still see the gorgeous 50-foot Sturtevant Falls that sits slightly into the trail.

Bronson Canyon

The Bronson Canyon is one of the best hikes to see the Hollywood sign. It’s an easy feat, taking about an hour with 0.6 miles covered. Afterward, relax in Griffith Park, a perfect place to enjoy a picnic or read on a sunny summer day.

Bronson Caves; photo Courtesy of JuanCarlos Chan/City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

East Fork to Bridge to Nowhere

The Bridge to Nowhere is definitely the most difficult and extraneous hike on this list. However, the 10.1-mile walk is worth the 7 hours for the views alone. If you are more on the adventurous side, you can even make reservations for bungee jumping. At an impressive 120 feet, it is the only place in California where bungee jumping is legal, but make sure to go with a trained professional.

Tuna Canyon Park Trail

This hike may not have a jaw-dropping attraction, but it has jaw-dropping views of the sprawling Verdugo Mountain range. While it is only a 2.5-hour hike, the Tuna Canyon Trail errs more on the challenging side due to steep trails. Nevertheless, this will give you a much-needed escape from the city and a workout to clear your mind.

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