Los Angeles is known for movie studios, beaches, and endless freeways, but step away from the streets and you’ll find some great hiking. The city is surrounded by trails that offer epic views, fresh air, and a totally different side of LA. The best part? Many of these hiking trails are just minutes from popular neighborhoods, making them easy to fit into your day.
You can hike to skyline viewpoints, walk along ocean cliffs, explore quiet canyons, or even reach famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign. Some trails are perfect for beginners, while others are better for hikers who want a challenge.
In this guide, we’re sharing 6 of the most popular hiking trails in Los Angeles, along with what to expect, difficulty levels, and why locals love them. Lace up your sneakers, it’s time to explore LA from a whole new way!
1. Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park, a top LA spot for hiking | Photo Credits: Geographer on Wikimedia
Runyon Canyon is a classic LA hike experience. Just right above Hollywood, this trail has great city views with that fun, energetic LA vibe. It's where you might spot a celebrity walking their dog or catch a free outdoor yoga class.
The hike is easy to moderate, making it a good choice if you want some exercise without a full-day trek. So, you don’t need much hiking experience to enjoy it. On a clear day, you’ll also get great views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and even the ocean. It’s a solid pick for a morning hike or a relaxed sunset walk with friends.
⛰️ Distance: ~3.3 miles (full loop)
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Early mornings or late afternoons (avoid midday heat)
2. Hollywood Sign Trail
Hike up to the iconic Hollywood Sign!
You can’t visit LA without getting a close-up of the world-famous Hollywood Sign. This trail takes you behind and above the sign for that epic, over-the-shoulder selfie moment. It’s a bit longer and steeper than some others, but totally worth the effort for that iconic LA photo.
For the best photo spots and local tips along the way, joining a guided Hollywood Sign hike is a great idea. A guide can take you to the best angles, help with timing for photos, and share fun facts about the sign and the surrounding area, so you leave with great shots and a better story to tell.
⛰️ Distance: ~6 miles round trip
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Moderate
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Weekdays to avoid the crowds
3. Parker Mesa Overlook
Catch epic ocean views at Parker Mesa Overlook
If you want ocean views without leaving the city, head to Parker Mesa Overlook in the Santa Monica Mountains. This trail is quieter than many of LA’s more famous hikes, making it a great option if you want a calm walk. The path is mostly flat and well-marked, so it works well for anyone looking for an easy hike.
But, the real highlight is the overlook at the end of the trail. On clear days, you can see the Pacific Ocean stretching out toward Catalina Island, with rolling hills and coastline below. It’s especially popular at sunset, when the sky lights up in soft colors.
⛰️ Distance: ~7.5 miles round trip
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Easy
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Late afternoon for sunset views
4. Griffith Observatory Trail
Hiking adventure with a Griffith Observatory view
Looking for a hike that mixes great views with one of LA’s most famous landmarks? The trail up to Griffith Observatory is a top choice pick. As you climb, you’ll get panoramic views of the city, the Hollywood Sign, and Downtown LA. On clear days, you can even see all the way to the ocean.
This hike is popular because it offers more than just scenery. Once you reach the top, you can explore the Griffith Observatory’s free exhibits, learn about space and science, or look through the telescopes in the evening.
If you want the best viewpoints and some local insight, booking a Griffith Observatory hiking tour is a great option. A guide can lead you along the most scenic routes, share fun facts, and help you time your visit for the best views!
⛰️ Distance: ~6 miles round trip
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Late afternoon for golden hour views
5. Sandstone Peak
Mountain views at Sandstone Peak | Photo Credits: Wasquewhat on Wikimedia
Ready to feel on top of the world? Sandstone Peak is the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, and the views are incredible. You’ll see valleys, cliffs, ocean views, and even the Channel Islands on clear days.
Don’t let the word “peak” scare you, it’s a steady climb that rewards you every step of the way. This hike is ideal if you want a true nature experience without driving too far from the city.
⛰️ Distance: ~6.25 miles round trip
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Moderate
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Morning to avoid heat
6. Bridge to Nowhere
Canyon views at the Bridge to Nowhere trail
Looking for something totally different? Try the Bridge to Nowhere trail. This one takes you deep into the San Gabriel Mountains, past rivers, boulders, and shady canyons, ending at a random bridge built in the 1930s that was never used.
It’s a long hike, but the scenery is worth it. There are swimming spots in the river, and if you're feeling brave, there’s even bungee jumping off the bridge. This one’s for the adventurous crowd who want an off the beaten path.
⛰️ Distance: ~9.5–10 miles round trip
🏃🏻♂️➡️Difficulty: Moderate
🕒 Best Time to Hike: Morning to avoid heat
Tips for your Los Angeles hike
Make your hiking in LA, California experience more enjoyable with these tips:
🗺️ Stay connected with a US eSIM
Cell service can be spotty on some trails, so having data helps a lot. A US eSIM lets you check trail maps, look up nearby parking, track weather changes, and share photos without hunting for Wi-Fi. Download your maps ahead of time just in case.
🎟️ Bundle nearby attractions to save time
Many popular hikes are close to major attractions. If you’re hiking near Griffith Park or the Hollywood Sign, you can plan the rest of your day around spots like observatories, studios, or museums nearby. Consider booking a Klook Pass Los Angeles to bundle all your activities ahead of time to fit more activities into your LA trip!
📅 Hike on weekdays if you can
Trails in LA get busy, especially popular ones like Runyon Canyon and Griffith Observatory. Going Monday through Thursday means fewer crowds, quieter paths, and way better photo opportunities, especially at viewpoints.
FAQs about Los Angeles hiking trails
What is the famous hike in LA?
The most famous hike in LA is probably the one to the Hollywood Sign. It's iconic, easy to access, and gives you incredible views of Los Angeles. Plus, you get to brag that you hiked to one of the most photographed landmarks in the world.
Is LA good for hiking?
Yes, LA is a fantastic place for hiking! You’ll find mountains, beaches, canyons, and city views, all within a short drive. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, there’s a trail that suits your style.
How many hiking trails are there in Los Angeles?
There are over 100 hiking trails in the Los Angeles area, from easy walks to full-day treks. With national forests, city parks, and coastal cliffs nearby, you’ll never run out of new paths to explore.
Which hiking trails are open in Los Angeles?
Most hiking trails in Los Angeles are open year-round, but it’s always a good idea to check local park websites for closures due to weather, maintenance, or fire risks. Trails in Griffith Park and the Santa Monica Mountains are usually open.
What are the best hiking trails in Los Angeles?
Some of the best hiking trails Los Angeles has to offer include Runyon Canyon, the Hollywood Sign Trail, and the Griffith Park hike Los Angeles is known for. If you’re into nature and coastal views, try Parker Mesa or Sandstone Peak. For something wild and different, go for the Bridge to Nowhere.
Ready to lace up? Let’s hike LA!
Los Angeles is more than just movie sets and palm-lined streets, it’s also a paradise for hikers. So pick a trail, grab your water bottle, and explore LA in a whole new way. And hey, don’t forget to share those photos, because if you didn’t post it, did it really happen? Let’s go hiking!
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