The 15 Most Amazing Peaks around Beverly Hills

While Beverly Hills itself is known for urban luxury, it borders the Santa Monica Mountains, offering several popular elevated areas and viewpoints. Highly regarded spots include the Back of the Hollywood Sign on Mount Lee, which provides magnificent views over the Hollywood Hills and Los Angeles, and the Wisdom Tree on Burbank Peak, known for its panoramic vistas, especially at sunset. Another favorite is Mount Hollywood Summit, offering spectacular views across Los Angeles and the surrounding mountains.

For those seeking a more strenuous experience, Runyon Canyon Park offers trails with significant elevation gain, including a 3.3-mile hike that ascends 800 feet to its highest points. While not a traditional 'mountain climb,' the trails within Runyon Canyon provide a vigorous workout with rewarding views. Additionally, the Hogback Trail leading to Mount Hollywood Summit is popular for trail running and hiking, offering a good challenge.

From various elevated points, you can enjoy diverse natural features and iconic landmarks. For instance, from 'The Mountain of Beverly Hills' or other high points in the Santa Monica Mountains, you can see the vast Los Angeles Basin, the downtown skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and even Catalina Island on clear days. From Mount Lee, you stand directly above the famous Hollywood Sign and can view the Hollywood Reservoir. Glendale Peak offers views over the San Gabriel Mountains and downtown Los Angeles.

'The Mountain of Beverly Hills' refers to a 157-acre undeveloped private property that represents the highest elevation within the 90210 ZIP code, reaching approximately 1,400 feet above sea level. It offers unparalleled 360-degree views across the Los Angeles Basin and beyond. However, it is a private estate and not publicly accessible for hiking or visits.

Yes, Franklin Canyon Park, located just north of Sunset Boulevard, offers several family-friendly trails. The Hastain Trail has a shorter 1.8-mile option, providing moderate hiking with panoramic views. The park's diverse ecosystems and tranquil reservoir make it an enjoyable outing for families, though it doesn't feature distinct 'peaks' in the traditional sense.

Runyon Canyon Park is a very popular dog-friendly destination. It offers various trails where dogs are welcome, making it a local favorite for a quick, invigorating workout with impressive urban and natural backdrops. Many trails in Griffith Park, which includes peaks like Cahuenga Peak, are also dog-friendly.

The best time to hike the elevated areas and trails around Beverly Hills is generally during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (roughly November to May). During these periods, temperatures are more moderate, making for more comfortable hiking conditions. Summers can be very hot, so if hiking then, it's best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

Beyond hiking, the areas around Beverly Hills offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling opportunities, including road cycling routes like the 'Mulholland Drive & Beverly Hill loop' or the 'Griffith Park loop' mentioned in the Road Cycling Routes around Beverly Hills guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Old Nike Missile Tower – San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint loop' detailed in the MTB Trails around Beverly Hills guide.

While popular spots can get busy, Glendale Peak in Griffith Park is often considered a hidden gem. Despite offering excellent views over the southeast end of Griffith Park, the San Gabriel Mountains, and downtown Los Angeles, it tends to be overlooked by many hikers who bypass it on lower trails, making it a good option for a quieter experience.

When hiking in the elevated areas around Beverly Hills, it's essential to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) is also crucial due to the often exposed trails. Comfortable hiking shoes, snacks, and a charged phone for navigation or emergencies are also recommended. Layers of clothing can be useful as temperatures can change, particularly at higher elevations or during different times of day.

While some parks like Runyon Canyon and Griffith Park are relatively accessible by public transport with bus stops nearby, direct access to trailheads can sometimes be limited. Planning your route using public transport apps is advisable. For many trailheads, driving and parking remain the most convenient options, especially for those further into the Santa Monica Mountains.

Parking availability varies by location. For Runyon Canyon Park, street parking can be found in surrounding residential areas, though it fills up quickly. Franklin Canyon Park has designated parking lots. For trails leading to Mount Lee and the Hollywood Sign, parking near Lake Hollywood is often recommended, from where you can walk to the viewpoints. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and hours.