The best walks and hikes in Los Angeles County

This Venice Beach to Santa Monica Pier walking route offers a quintessential Southern California experience, blending lively beach culture with expansive ocean views. You'll stroll along a mostly flat, paved path, transitioning from the eclectic energy of Venice Beach, with its street performers and the famous Venice Skatepark, to the classic amusement park charm of the Santa Monica Pier. Expect continuous sea breezes and a dynamic backdrop of beach life, making for a memorable coastal journey.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though starting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends. The trail is easily accessible, but parking can be tricky in both Venice and Santa Monica, so exploring public transport options might save you some hassle. This moderate 7.5-mile (12.1 km) loop, with only 69 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes, making it a great option for a relaxed day out.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its seamless connection between two distinct, iconic beach communities. It's not just a walk; it's an immersion into Los Angeles' vibrant coastal scene, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban culture. You'll pass historic landmarks like the Santa Monica Pier, which also marks the end of Route 66, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Venice Beach Boardwalk, making it a fantastic choice for a family-friendly outing.

Hike the Back of Hollywood Sign via Hollywood Revisor for a unique perspective of the iconic landmark. This moderate route covers 7.9 miles (12.6 km) with an elevation gain of 1183 feet (361 metres), leading you up Mount Lee. As you ascend, the path shifts from paved sections to unpaved dirt, offering varied terrain and expansive views of the Los Angeles cityscape, including the Downtown LA skyline and the San Fernando Valley. You can expect to complete this adventure in about 3 hours and 43 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with several starting points available. Many hikers begin near Lake Hollywood Park, where you can often find good parking availability close to the trailhead. The trail is generally accessible, but be prepared for the transition from paved surfaces to natural dirt paths as you get closer to the summit. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer views.

This trail is notable for providing an uncommon vantage point of the Hollywood Sign, often placing you directly behind it. Beyond the sign, you will also catch glimpses of the Hollywood Reservoir nestled below, adding another scenic element to your journey. The route offers a blend of urban views and natural surroundings within Griffith Park, making it a popular choice for those wanting to experience the Hollywood Hills.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Wisdom Tree, Hollywood Sign, and Lake Hollywood Loop, a 7.0 miles (11.2 km) route that offers a rewarding workout with iconic Los Angeles scenery. You will gain 1073 feet (327 metres) in elevation over an estimated 3 hours and 20 minutes. As you hike, you will experience panoramic views of the Hollywood Reservoir, downtown Los Angeles, and the San Fernando Valley. The trail brings you to the Wisdom Tree on Burbank Peak, providing 360-degree city views, and offers an up-close perspective of the Hollywood Sign from behind. You will also pass Cahuenga Peak, the highest point in Griffith Park, which provides expansive vistas.

When planning your visit, be aware that the initial climb towards the Wisdom Tree is steep and can be strenuous. It is advisable to wear footwear with good grip, as you will encounter loose dirt and rocks on the trail. The area is typically hot and dry with minimal shade, so remember to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout your hike. Parking for the Wisdom Tree Hollywood Sign hike can usually be found near the trailhead, but it is always good to arrive early, especially on weekends.

This loop is notable for combining several of Los Angeles's most famous landmarks into a single, accessible hiking experience. Beyond the well-known Hollywood Sign, the trail also highlights the natural beauty of Griffith Park, offering a unique blend of urban views and natural landscapes. It provides a different perspective on the city, allowing you to connect with both its cultural icons and its surrounding environment. The route is a popular choice for those looking to combine exercise with sightseeing in a single outing.

Embark on a difficult 12.1-mile (19.4 km) hike along the Bridge to Nowhere via East Fork Trail, a journey that typically takes around 6 hours and 54 minutes. You will gain 1285 feet (392 metres) in elevation as you navigate diverse terrain, from lush wooded sections with wildflowers to dry riverbeds. The route follows the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, offering views of steep, pink-tinted granite walls and prominent features like Swan Rock. Prepare for numerous river crossings that define the experience, leading you to the iconic Bridge to Nowhere.

Planning your visit requires preparation for the trail's frequent river crossings. During winter and spring, water levels can be higher, making these sections more challenging; consider bringing water shoes for comfort and safety. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, but this route is very popular, especially on weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.

This trail is renowned for its unique destination: an isolated arch bridge that stands as a testament to an ambitious, unfinished road project from the 1930s. The journey itself is a rugged adventure through the Angeles National Forest, characterized by its challenging river fords and the dramatic canyon scenery. It offers a distinct blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, setting it apart from other hikes in the region.

The Hogback Loop offers a challenging hike through the rugged, hilly terrain of Griffith Park. You will cover a significant distance of 10.6 miles (17.0 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 1594 feet (486 metres), making this a difficult route that takes around 5 hours and 1 minute to complete. As you ascend, you are treated to expansive views of the Los Angeles skyline and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign, which provides a clear landmark against the urban backdrop. This trail provides a rewarding workout with a constant change of scenery.

Planning your visit to the Hogback Loop requires some consideration, as Griffith Park is a very popular urban destination. Parking is generally available, but it can become quite busy, especially on weekends. To ensure you secure a spot, it is advisable to arrive early in the day. The park is easily accessible if you are driving, and various public transport options also serve different points within the park, offering flexibility for your journey.

This route is notable for its unique position, blending the natural environment of Griffith Park with striking views of the sprawling Los Angeles metropolis. You will experience a diverse landscape that transitions from natural chaparral to vistas dominated by urban landmarks. The trail's challenging nature and the panoramic views it offers make it a standout option for hikers seeking both a physical test and a memorable visual experience within the city's green heart.

The Rose Bowl Loop is a beloved community hub, offering a pleasant, paved path that circles the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. As you walk, you'll enjoy diverse scenery, from the stadium itself to the adjacent Brookside Golf Course, with the majestic San Gabriel Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) route has a minimal 111 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes, making it a perfect outing for all ages and fitness levels.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the loop is open daily, year-round, from early morning to evening. Ample parking is available on non-event days, and restrooms are on site. It's a fantastic option for families with strollers and is also a popular dog-friendly trail, just remember to keep your pet on a leash. For a more serene experience, try visiting in the mornings.

Beyond its accessibility, the Rose Bowl Loop holds significant historical value, encircling a U.S. National Historic Landmark that has hosted countless major events. It serves as a vibrant outdoor community center, attracting thousands daily, and you can even find historical plaques dedicated to Jackie Robinson nearby. This route is a versatile choice for both leisurely strolls and more structured workouts, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and community.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Trans-Catalina Trail from Little Harbor to Two Harbors, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) segment that rewards you with sweeping ocean views. You will gain 1343 feet (409 metres) over an estimated 2 hours and 58 minutes, encountering dramatic west-facing cliffs and a particularly steep climb from Little Harbor. Look for the shaded picnic table lookout point, often praised for offering some of the best panoramas on the entire trail.

When planning your visit, be aware that this route is largely exposed with very little tree cover, making it challenging during warmer months. Water sources are limited along the way, so you must carry sufficient water for your entire hike. The relentless uphill sections contribute to the difficulty, especially if you are carrying backpacking gear, so prepare accordingly.

This segment of the Trans-Catalina Trail lies within the Catalina Island Conservancy, offering a unique natural environment. Keep an eye out for wild bison, which are often spotted along this part of the trail, adding a distinctive wildlife element to your adventure. It's a notable section for its challenging terrain and expansive vistas, connecting two key points on Catalina Island.

The Silver Lake Reservoir Trail offers a delightful urban escape, looping around the shimmering waters of the reservoir. This easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route combines paved sidewalks and wide dirt paths, with just 131 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect casual walk that takes about 56 minutes. You'll enjoy views of the Silver Lake hills, distant mountains, and even catch glimpses of unique architectural homes like Silvertop by John Lautner, all while spotting local wildlife like great blue herons.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible and popular for its family-friendly and dog-friendly nature (just remember dogs need to be leashed and aren't allowed in the Silver Lake Meadow). Restrooms are available in the Meadow area, which is also a great spot for a picnic. Parking is generally available around the area, but it's always a good idea to arrive earlier on busy days.

This trail is more than just a walk; it's an iconic "Eastside Los Angeles" experience, frequently featured in TV shows and movies. The reservoir itself has historical significance, first put into service in 1908, and the entire area serves as a vital urban oasis. For those looking to extend their workout, the nearby Mattachine Steps offer an additional challenge, making this a versatile spot for all types of recreation.