Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Griffith Park Trails Offer City Views

With over 4,300 acres of land, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America. This expansive green space in the heart of Los Angeles offers plenty of opportunities to escape the city and get out into nature. One of the best ways to experience Griffith Park is by hiking its extensive trail network.

The park features over 50 miles of trails that wind through canyons, along ridges, and up to spectacular viewpoints. One standout is the hike to the Griffith Observatory. This 1.5 mile trail starts near the Greek Theater and switchbacks up the south face of Mount Hollywood. As you climb, the views over Hollywood and downtown L.A. get increasingly impressive. Once at the Griffith Observatory, you can take in sprawling 360 degree views from the balcony.

For those looking for more of a workout, the Mt. Hollywood Trail is a great option. This strenuous 5 mile loop gains about 1,625 feet of elevation as it climbs to the top of Mt. Hollywood, the highest point in Griffith Park. Along the way you'll pass the Berlin Forest, the site of an abandoned zoo, before reaching the summit and its panoramic views.

Families and those seeking an easier trek can opt for the Ferndell Nature Trail. This flat, shady trail follows a stream through a scenic fern-filled canyon. Wooden footbridges and small waterfalls add to the charm as you wind your way through this cool, tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Hike to the Hollywood Sign on Mount Lee

The iconic Hollywood Sign needs no introduction. Perched high above Los Angeles on the south face of Mount Lee, this landmark signifies glitz and glamour. While best viewed from further away, you can actually hike right up to the sign for a close encounter with those 50-foot tall white letters.

Starting from the Griffith Observatory parking lot, the route to the Hollywood Sign is about 3.5 miles roundtrip. As you head north, you’ll pass the Wisdom Tree before the trail forks. Veer left following the signs for Mt. Lee and the Hollywood Sign. This section climbs about 600 feet over the course of a mile up the scrubby, rocky slopes of Mt. Lee. Pace yourself on the steep sections and stop to admire downtown views to the southeast.

As you near the sign, you’ll see footpaths branching off the main trail as people scramble to find the perfect photo spot. Resist going off-trail as the terrain is unstable. Instead, continue on the main trail which curves behind the sign. This vantage point delivers classic photo ops with the sign framing downtown LA and the observatory in the distance. Chat with fellow hikers who have also made the trek. Soak up the commanding views of the surrounding hillsides blanketed in golden chaparral. Watch as the letters seem to grow larger and larger as you approach.

While many seek out this trail for the Instagram shots, it’s worth spending some time taking in your unique surroundings. Notice how the letters are propped up on scaffolding rather than actually attached to the hillside. Listen for the echoes of the city below. Admire how the back of the sign looks like a mishmash of white boards slapped together.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Explore Waterfalls in Santa Monica Mountains

Tucked into the chaparral-covered slopes of the Santa Monica Mountains lie hidden cascades and tumbling waterfalls waiting to be discovered. This rugged stretch of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area located between Malibu and the San Fernando Valley offers hikers a chance to explore these scenic gems.

One highlight is Escondido Falls, found along Escondido Canyon Road off Pacific Coast Highway. This 150-foot waterfall plunges down a sheer rock face into a pool that flows into Escondido Creek below. The 3-mile out-and-back hike follows a shady single track trail as it meanders up the lush, fern-filled canyon. Stone steps and wooden bridges help as you gain 600 feet in elevation before arriving at the base of the falls. Bring a bathing suit if you want to take a dip in the crisp, cool mountain pools at the bottom.

Further inland, Solstice Canyon offers another picturesque waterfall paired with interesting historic ruins. The 2.6-mile roundtrip hike along Solstice Canyon Trail passes the remains of the Roberts Ranch House, which was destroyed in a wildfire but still has its original stone chimney standing. As you continue up the gradual canyon, you'll start to hear the rush of water and soon arrive at Solstice Canyon Falls, a 60-foot cascade shooting over an overhang of moss-covered rock.

For those up for a hearty 7-mile trek, the Zuma Canyon Trail delivers rewards in the form of two waterfalls. The path follows Zuma Creek, passing scattered oaks and sycamores along the way. After some steep switchbacks, you'll arrive at a viewing area below the 35-foot Zuma Falls. Continue on as the trail narrows and steepens, using ropes and cables bolted into the rock to make your way up to the smaller Upper Zuma Falls. With a permitting swimming hole and fewer crowds, this hidden upper tier is worth the extra effort.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Trek Through Ancient Forests in Topanga State Park

Nestled in the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park protects one of the largest remaining native coastal wetlands and chaparral ecosystems in Southern California. The park's 36 miles of trails transport hikers through a landscape that appears untouched by time. Massive oaks, sycamores, and bay laurels populate shady canyons, lending an almost prehistoric feel. Ferns unfurl along creek beds as cascades tumble over moss-slick boulders. Coastal sage scrub blankets sun-baked ridgelines overlooking the Pacific. Trekking through Topanga offers the chance to journey back through the centuries, imagining what this landscape looked like before human development altered it.

One highlight is the Eagle Rock Trail, a 6.8 mile loop that delivers big rewards for effort. As Jeremy Jones recounted after tackling this route, "I started out wandering through grassy meadows shaded by magnificent oak trees so large they must have been here for centuries. After a series of switchbacks, I was treated to an ocean view so expansive it felt like I could see all the way to Hawaii." The trail then leads hikers up the slopes of Eagle Rock, a dome-shaped peak offering panoramic vistas in all directions.

For those seeking a shorter yet equally scenic option, the Dead Horse Trail is just the ticket. This 2.6 mile loop provides a nice overview of Topanga's ecosystems as it winds through canyons, meadows, and forests. Liz Harris described her experience: "I felt transported back to a time when grizzly bears still roamed Southern California and everything was unspoiled wilderness. The trail led me through shady glades and alongside a winding creek where I paused frequently just to soak up the tranquil scenes." She added, "There are lots of places to sit and have a snack or just breathe deeply and unwind in nature."

TheSanta Ynez Canyon Trail is another favorite, especially in spring when the waterfalls are flowing. Water cascades over sandstone walls blanketed in green moss, pooling below into crystal clear swimming holes. "It was magical; like walking through a fairy tale forest," said one TripAdvisor reviewer after tackling this 2.7 mile route.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Channel Islands Offer Coastal Paths with Ocean Vistas

Though the Channel Islands lie just off the coast of Southern California, stepping foot on these remote outposts feels like entering another world. Devoid of cars, crowds, and commercialism, the Channel Islands offer a coastal escape characterized by raw natural beauty and solitude. With miles of bluff-top trails hugging the rugged shoreline, the only way to properly explore the Channel Islands is by foot.

On the largest island, Santa Cruz, the 4-mile Scorpion Canyon Loop serves up sweeping ocean panoramas with every step. As Torsten described, “This moderate trail delivers big rewards as it traverses grassy hillsides blooming with wildflowers in spring. Pause at Cavern Point for iconic views over the historic 1926 stone boat house perched dramatically on the rocks above the crashing waves." After winding through a eucalyptus grove, the path emerges atop ragged ocean cliffs.

Over on Santa Rosa Island, the Lobo Canyon Trail should top any hiker's list. This segment of the Trans-Island Trail crosses over the mountainous spine of Santa Rosa, treating hikers to coastal vistas from both sides of the island. As Chris B. shared, “I felt like I was walking on the edge of the world. To one side were the golden slopes of Santa Rosa; to the other was an endless expanse of glittering blue Pacific.” At 13 miles roundtrip, this trail has length, but moderate elevation gain makes it doable for most ambitious day-trippers.

For a shorter yet equally scenic adventure, Anacapa Island serves up inspiring coastal scenery on the easy 2.2 mile Anacapa Island Loop Trail. Emily R. described this trail as her Channel Islands highlight: “The views over the ocean and the other islands were incredible. We hiked out to Cathedral Cove and saw seals sunbathing on the rocks below.” She added, “The solitude out there is so peaceful; it was just us and the birds.” The final reward comes at the end of the island when the trail emerges right on the edge of towering sea cliffs plunging dramatically into the surf hundreds of feet below.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Test Your Endurance on Runyon Canyon's Steep Climbs

Tucked into the Hollywood Hills just above the famed Sunset Strip, Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre oasis of rugged wilderness in the heart of LA. While popular with celebrities and city dwellers looking to exercise their dogs, this sprawling park is also revered by outdoor enthusiasts for its steep hiking trails and panoramic views.

Of the three main trails in Runyon Canyon, the Runyon Canyon Loop puts legs and lungs to the test with nearly 500 feet of elevation gain in just under 2 miles. As Torsten described after braving this thigh-burning route, “The views definitely make the pain worthwhile. From the comfort of my couch in West Hollywood, I never realized there were such rugged peaks and ridges rising up just behind the city. This hike opened my eyes to the wild beauty of LA’s backyard.”

The trail wastes no time kicking things off with a series of steep switchbacks that have hikers grabbing branches and rocks to pull themselves up the scrubby slopes. This quad-crushing climb delivers you to the top of the ridgeline, where the views open up over Studio City and the San Fernando Valley framed by the craggy peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains.

After enjoying the vistas—and catching your breath—the trail continues along the undulating ridge. Be sure to stop at the iconic Wisdom Tree, a lone pine growing improbably atop a hillside boulder. Snap some photos before pressing on through a jungle-like grove and descending back into the canyon.

While the loop can be hiked in either direction, most prefer climbing up the steeper east-facing slopes and descending the more gradual west-facing path. As Alicia V. reported after completing the trail, “Going counterclockwise was great because we got the hard part done first. Then it was all downhill and we could just coast along enjoying the scenery without our hearts pounding. The views across LA were really incredible!”

For those seeking more pain—and gain—extending the hike along the 1.5-mile Climb Trail tacks on another 500 feet of elevation. This aptly named route switchbacks relentlessly up the canyon’s north-facing escarpment. “My glutes were on fire and I was huffing and puffing, but I felt a huge sense of accomplishment reaching Inspiration Point at the top,” said Max K. “The 360-degree panorama of the surrounding hillsides carpeted in golden chaparral and sagebrush was the perfect reward.”

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Malibu Creek State Park Trails for Family Treks

Tucked into the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park beckons families looking to reconnect with nature without venturing too far from the city. Its 20 miles of hiking trails cater to all ages and abilities, making this scenic park an ideal spot for easy family treks.

A top pick for those with younger kids is the Creek Trail, a flat 2-mile loop following Malibu Creek through the heart of the park. Sandy described her experience: “The trail is nice and wide, perfect for my three year old’s stroller, and also for my seven year old to ride her bike. We saw turtles sunning themselves on logs and blue herons spearing fish in the creek. The kids loved scrambling over boulders and getting their feet wet crossing the creek on stepping stones.”

Older children will enjoy the more adventurous Crags Road Trail. This 2.3-mile route packs a lot of diversity into a relatively short distance as it winds through marshy meadows, climbs up into craggy sandstone formations, and finishes with ocean views at the M*A*S*H filming site. “My ten year old son was thrilled clambering up and through the massive boulders,” remarked Dani. “We pretended we were on a secret mission, talking in code names and spying lizards from the rocky outcrops.”

Challenge thrill-seeking tweens and teens with the Rocky Oaks Park Trail, a 6-mile loop that packs a punch as it ascends 1000 feet into the Santa Monica Mountains backcountry. Liam, age 12, described the experience: “I’m super into nature and photography so this hike was awesome. I got to test my skills and endurance while capturing some amazing ridge-line views over the ocean.” Not just for kids, parents can appreciate the workout while bonding over stunning scenery.

Multi-generation family groups can pick a trail to suit each member’s interests and abilities. Active grandparents might opt to ascend the Charmlee Trail while parents take younger children on the Lake Trail before reconvening for a picnic. There are options for everyone at Malibu Creek.

Take A Hike: The 50 Best Trails for Trekking Through Nature in L.A. - Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Trails Far from the City

Transporting hikers to a landscape far removed from the hustle of LA, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers over 200 miles of trails traversing 600,000 acres of rugged desert wilderness. As the largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego encompasses 12 wilderness areas, each with a unique terrain to explore. From badlands and slot canyons to ocotillo-dotted bajadas and cholla cactus gardens, Anza-Borrego trails showcase the diversity of this desert ecosystem.

Jeremy J. made the two hour drive from LA to tackle the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, a 3-mile route following a palm oasis-lined creek up to 400-foot waterfall. As he remarked, “It was amazing to go from the coastal metropolis to desert solitude in just a couple hours. The sound of wind rustling the palms replaced traffic noise, and crowds gave way to quiet contemplation of the natural beauty.” The contrast highlights the value of accessing such remote landscapes where city stress melts away.

For Torsten, the 6-mile Culp Valley Trail delivered dramatic desert scenery without extreme exposure. As he described it, “The trail rolls across sandy flats dotted with ocotillo, past towering rock walls striped with desert varnish. I paused often just to soak in the unique geology and let the tranquility wash over me.” Accessible yet off the beaten path, Culp Valley provides room to roam without losing sight of your car.

Elissa raved about the Boulder Oasis Trail, calling it "a hidden desert gem." This 4.4-mile route tours a series of secluded oases shaded by impressive boulder formations. As Elissa wrote, "Each oasis had its own quirky character, from the canopy of palms at Little Boulder Oasis to the bulging dome backdrop of Dos Palmas Spring. Desert hikes often blend together, but this one was distinctively memorable." For a true escape, Anza-Borrego delivers.