10 Spectacular Hiking Trails in Los Angeles For A Thrilling Adventure (2024)
Los Angeles, or the City of Angels, has some of the best hiking trails in the country. The locals and tourists, both enjoy exploring these trails and going on a thrilling adventure in Los Angeles. Most of these hiking trails offer an amazing view of the city of Los Angeles.
10 Spectacular Hiking Trails in Los Angeles For A Thrilling Adventure
So, if you are looking for adventure, then you too must hit these hiking trails to experience the best of Los Angeles. Take a look at this compilation of the most spectacular hiking trails in Los Angeles. You will surely be pleasantly surprised at their beauty!
1. Runyon Canyon Park
The Runyon Canyon Park is one of those hiking trails in Los Angeles that will give you the feeling that it is straight out of Hollywood. Are you wondering why? It’s because you will see plenty of models, both male and female, all around you on this trail. This hiking trail is on the more popular side in the city and definitely attracts a fair share of the fancy locals.
There are two different routes in this trail. Out of the two, one is really long and difficult. So, if you are looking for a real workout, pick that route. The Runyon Canyon Park is very easy to navigate. If you are a beginner, you will have no issue with hiking on this trail. The starting might be a bit difficult, and you will likely have to take one or two small breaks in between. But as you cover more distance, you will be surprised at how smooth the trail is.
And, there will also be endless opportunities to take the perfect selfie as this trail has some of the best view points.Image Source
2. Castle Peak
If you are looking for a hiking trail that offers a bit more challenge, then Castle Peak is the right choice for you. This trail requires a lot of bouldering and scrambling. Castle Peak is located to the north of Calabasas and is one of the most well-kept hiking trails in Los Angeles.
This place is also a sacred location for the Native Americans. If you get a chance to take a trip inside Castle Rock, you will understand why. This cave has lots of cracks and crevices that you can use to support yourself to the top. However, keep in mind that you should only attempt this, if you are confident about your climbing skills.
Once you reach the top, you will get an amazing view of the San Fernando Valley. The rolling hills of this valley are sure to take your breath away!
3. Paseo Miramar
Paseo Miramar is more common amongst the locals and a very favourite hiking trail for those who are looking to burn a lot of calories. The entire trail is 5.5 miles long and covers a vast area with different kinds of terrain.
You can visit this hike early in the morning, as that is the ideal time for taking a trip to Paseo Miramar. This trail offers a wonderful view of the ocean as well at a spot known as Parker Mesa Overlook. This can easily be one of the best vantage points in Los Angeles.
The climb to the top of Paseo Miramar could be a bit difficult for those who have no experience with hiking or mountain climbing. If you are a beginner, make sure that you have someone along with you, so that you can have support.
4. Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park and Nature Centre
The Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park and Nature Centre is one of those hiking trails in Los Angeles that offers a complete package. It is actually a reserve for zoological, botanical, and geological aspects. However, it also offers a long distance of hiking trail, right at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains.
You will also be able to catch a glimpse of the spectacular waterfall that is present on this trail. The waterfall is nearly 40 foot in height and enhances the beauty of the place several times. Additionally, the good thing is, this trail is usually not that crowded. Hence, you will be able to have some quiet time with yourself and nature, easily.
The best time to visit this place would be after a rainfall. Why? Because that is when the waterfall looks the liveliest!
5. Bridge to Nowhere
This hiking trail surely has an interesting name and also is a good option, if you are looking to hike for a long distance. The Bridge to Nowhere covers 10 miles of distance and is stretched out across rivers and canyons. This trail is surely a treat, especially during the summers.
One of the best things about this trail is that it offers bungee jumping as well. So, if you are looking for the ultimate thrill in life, a trip to the Bridge to Nowhere is just what you need! Make sure to carry plenty of water if you are hiking during the summer, as the trail is pretty long and somewhat complicated. Also note that during winter, this trail has some flash floods from time to time. So, summer may be the best time to plan your hike here.
Bridge to Nowhere does require a wilderness pass that you have to pay for, in order to hike the trails there.
6. Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy happens to be the highest point in Los Angeles County. So, the most seasoned and experienced hikers are usually the ones who like to take on this trail. This hiking trail is truly a challenge for anyone!
Mount Baldy is located at an elevation of 10,068 feet. It is one of the peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains and also the highest peak there. The hiking trail is 6.5 miles long, and you will have to climb nearly 2,300 feet to get to the top. However, you can also opt for a chair lift while going up or coming down, as most people do.
Once you get to the top, you will notice the lack of trees. That is how this peak got its name. The view from the top is also spectacular and will forever be etched in your memory. Don’t forget to carry a camera to catch this amazing view!
7. Escondido Falls
If you are looking for one of the most alluring hiking trails in Los Angeles, then Escondido Falls is the right place to go. This hiking trail has its route through ancient oaks, sage, and chaparral. All this leads to a spectacular waterfall.
The hike is also not that long and only about four miles. So, if you are a novice, this would be a good place to start gaining hiking experience. If you visit this trail during the winter, the waterfall might seem even more beautiful due to rainfall. But even if the water in the falls is flowing, the location is still pretty enchanting.
The trail only has one track, so you will be able to navigate through the route pretty easily. Following two hours of walking at a moderate pace, you will be able to complete the hike.
8. Switzer Falls
Another popular hiking trail with an alluring waterfall would be the Switzer Falls trail. This one usually is crowded due to its popularity among the locals. So, if you are looking for isolation, this might not be the perfect location for you.
The trail covers chaparral forest, Arroyo Seco, and the lower area of the waterfalls. As you can imagine, all this together offers an amazing view of the place. If you visit the trail during the weekdays, you can expect to see lesser crowds.
Also, don’t miss out on the Switzer Trail Camp, which was built in 1884. This camp was established by Commodore Perry Switzer that became a camping resort. This resort has a whole network throughout Los Angeles.
9. Inspiration Point Trail
Inspiration Point Trail is a very easy and doable hiking trail that can be used by people from all ages. This trail is located in the Will Rogers State Historic Park and usually is crowded. Especially on the weekends.
This particular hiking trail is only two miles long and has the least amount of climbing, amongst all the other trails mentioned here. You will also be able to catch a glimpse of Will Rogers’ ranch home, which has 31 rooms in total. Apart from that, it also has stables, a polo field, riding ring, etc.
You can also book a tour of the place. However, make sure to check if the tour is available before visiting the place.
10. Rock Pool and Century Lake Trails
The Rock Pool and Century Lake Trails is 4.4 miles long and an ideal hiking trail for those who are experienced. This trail is near enough to the city, which means you don’t have to spend the entire weekend in a trailer, which is also good for those who are looking for a good hiking trail at a short distance.
Once you are 2.5 miles into the trail, you will also be able to view the M*A*S*H set which was once located there. Further inside, you can get a glimpse of the Rock Pool, which hikers climb to reach at a higher elevation point.
Make sure to follow a GPS, otherwise you might end up getting lost!
Conclusion:
So, these are some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Los Angeles. Take a hike on any or all of these trails and catch the best sights of this marvelous city!