Hiking probably isn’t the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Los Angeles but the city is home to gorgeous mountain ranges which provide a lot of hiking options. Here are three totally different hikes located in LA for those of you who want to trade in the treadmill for some exercise outside in the sunshine that we often brag about.
The Runyon Canyon Park hikes are probably the most well-known and well-tread hikes in the Los Angeles area. Considered a bit pretentious by nature nuts who claim people just come to the trail to stalk celebrities, it’s still something all LA residents should do at least once; a couple of the trails will have even the fittest of us all waking up with sore glutes. The three main trails offer varying levels of difficulty but all of them either begin or end with a stellar view of the valley below including the skyscrapers of downtown, if the smog isn’t too thick. It’s unlikely that you will find yourself alone on the trail even on the weekdays and the parking tends to be an issue, so … carpool. The earth will thank you. Side note: If you have house guests, it’s a fun hike to take visitors on, as you can see the Hollywood sign from the trail. The Runyon Canyon main trail head is located at 2001 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
Another great hiking spot is the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve. Despite it’s arduous name, this preserve is full of picturesque wide open spaces. In the fall and spring the meadows are green and dotted with wildflowers. If the sight of it doesn’t make you break out into Belle’s Reprise from Beauty and the Beast, I will now take a moment to mourn your inner child as it obviously died, sad and alone, in that box of VHS tapes you donated to Goodwill. The victory trailhead is an easy path for the novice hiker. Be sure to pack some food and lots of water. And watch out for snakes. I don’t think I’ve ever been there without seeing at least one. Enjoy the great wide somewhere. The trail head for this hikes starts at Victory Blvd & Gilmore St, West Hills, CA 91307 .
Sturtevant Falls is another must see hike for nature enthusiasts in the city of angels. The six and a half mile hike from the trailhead to the falls and back, follows a creek in the winter and early spring. The rest of the time it’s a series of swampy looking puddles. The first half mile is pretty rough because it’s so steep, but at least that portion is paved. On your way up you’ll pass some adorable little vintage cabins which add to the rustic feel. The falls are about 50 feet high and the sound they make as they slap into the rocks at the bottom is better than any white noise machine money can buy. The novelty of the falls brings large weekend crowds, so if you’re planning to hit these trails on a Saturday come early because parking is limited. The trailhead for this hike starts at Santa Anita Canyon Rd, Sierra Madre, CA 91025.
The mountains lining Los Angeles are often less moderate temperature wise, considerably warmer in the summer and colder in the winter. Check the weather before you head out, dress accordingly, wear sunscreen (even if it’s overcast), and always bring extra water. The foothills are also home to many indigenous animals, including but not limited to coyotes, snakes, bunny rabbits, and rodents of all sizes. Tread carefully and take care of the plants and animals. After all, they are welcoming you into their home for the day.