Top 10 Hiking Trails in Los Angeles County: A Guide for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Los Angeles County is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse array of trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging ascent or a leisurely stroll with breathtaking views, LA’s trails have something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top 10 hiking trails in LA County, including how to get there, what to prepare, the difficulty level, and what makes each trail unique.

1. Griffith Observatory and Mount Hollywood Trail

• Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles

• How to Get There: Enter Griffith Park from the Vermont Avenue entrance and head towards the Griffith Observatory parking lot.

• What to Prepare: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera for the panoramic views.

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Famous For: Sweeping views of downtown LA, the Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory.

2. Runyon Canyon

• Location: Hollywood, Los Angeles

• How to Get There: The main entrance is at Fuller Avenue, north of Franklin Avenue.

• What to Prepare: Water, sunscreen, and a hat. The trail is popular with dog owners, so expect to share the path with furry companions.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Famous For: Celebrity sightings, wide trails, and spectacular city views.

3. Eaton Canyon

• Location: Pasadena

• How to Get There: Start at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center, located on Altadena Drive.

• What to Prepare: Water, sturdy shoes, and a snack. The trail can be busy, so consider going early.

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Famous For: A picturesque waterfall at the end of the trail, especially popular after rains.

4. Escondido Falls

• Location: Malibu

• How to Get There: Park at Winding Way, off Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

• What to Prepare: Water, sturdy hiking boots, and a camera for the waterfall.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Famous For: The tallest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains, cascading down in three tiers.

5. Sandstone Peak

• Location: Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu

• How to Get There: Park at the Sandstone Peak trailhead off Yerba Buena Road.

• What to Prepare: Plenty of water, snacks, and layered clothing for varying temperatures.

• Difficulty Level: Hard

• Famous For: The highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains with stunning views of the ocean and valleys.

6. Bridge to Nowhere

• Location: Angeles National Forest, Azusa

• How to Get There: Start at the East Fork Trailhead off East Fork Road.

• What to Prepare: Water, snacks, sturdy shoes, and an adventurous spirit. The trail crosses a river several times.

• Difficulty Level: Hard

• Famous For: A mysterious bridge built in the 1930s that leads to nowhere, surrounded by rugged wilderness.

7. Santa Anita Canyon

• Location: Sierra Madre

• How to Get There: Begin at the Chantry Flat Trailhead, accessible via Santa Anita Avenue.

• What to Prepare: Water, snacks, a camera, and possibly a swimsuit for the pools.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard

• Famous For: Historic cabins, lush scenery, and the popular Sturtevant Falls.

8. Solstice Canyon

• Location: Malibu

• How to Get There: Park at the trailhead off Corral Canyon Road, just off PCH.

• What to Prepare: Water, sunscreen, and a picnic if you want to relax post-hike.

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Famous For: Scenic ruins of the Roberts Ranch House, peaceful creek, and a gentle waterfall.

9. The Wisdom Tree and Cahuenga Peak

• Location: Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles

• How to Get There: Start at the trailhead near Lake Hollywood Drive.

• What to Prepare: Water, sunscreen, and good hiking shoes. The trail is steep and exposed.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard

• Famous For: The iconic “Wisdom Tree” and views of the Hollywood Sign from the back.

10. Temescal Canyon Loop

• Location: Pacific Palisades

• How to Get There: Park at the Temescal Gateway Park off Sunset Boulevard.

• What to Prepare: Water, snacks, and good hiking shoes.

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Famous For: Ocean views, a seasonal waterfall, and lush canyon scenery.

Preparation Tips for Hiking in LA County:

1. Water: Always bring enough water, especially during hot weather.

2. Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.

3. Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

4. Snacks: Pack energy-boosting snacks like trail mix or fruit.

5. Timing: Start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

6. Navigation: Download trail maps or use a GPS app.

Exploring LA County’s diverse hiking trails offers not only a great workout but also the chance to see some of the most stunning natural beauty Southern California has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these trails provide something for everyone. So, lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and hit the trails for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

This article guides readers on how to enjoy the best hiking spots in Los Angeles County while preparing them for what to expect on each trail.