8 Best Hiking Trails Near Los Angeles in 2026

You've got one day in Los Angeles, and everyone in your group wants something different. A first-time visitor may be set on Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign, while a family may prefer a shaded waterfall route, and a couple may want an easy coastal walk that ends with a Malibu or Santa Monica sunset. The best hiking trails near Los Angeles aren't interchangeable. The right choice depends on your energy, timing, scenery priorities, parking tolerance, and what you want the rest of the day to feel like.

This guide pairs eight Los Angeles-area hikes with the visitor each route suits best. You'll find practical notes on distance, difficulty, highlights, timing, parking, access, seasonal conditions, and whether a private guided hike, e-bike outing, or combined city experience makes sense. For travelers who want more than a trailhead and a map pin, browse secret hiking spots before deciding how far off the obvious route to go.

Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours can also remove the navigation and transport guesswork. A private guide makes it easier to connect a hike with Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu, or Griffith Observatory without losing time to unfamiliar roads, crowded parking areas, or a poorly matched route.

Table of Contents

• 1. Griffith Observatory to Mount Hollywood Loop
  • The iconic LA overlook
• 2. Runyon Canyon
  • Hollywood energy on a short, steep route
• 3. Solstice Canyon to Waterfall
  • A shaded Malibu escape
  • The best fit for families and couples
• 4. Eaton Canyon to Waterfall
  • Pasadena's accessible family gem
• 5. Temescal Canyon to Ridge Trail
  • Flexible coastal hiking in Pacific Palisades
• 6. Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak
  • Malibu's serious ridge challenge
• 7. Henninger Flats Trail
  • Cooler mountain scenery with history
  • When it works best
• 8. Torrance Beach to Bluff Trail
  • Accessible ocean views and an easy day
• Top 8 LA Hiking Trails Comparison
• Match the Trail to Your Ideal LA Experience

1. Griffith Observatory to Mount Hollywood Loop

The iconic LA overlook

For a first visit to Los Angeles, this is the most complete introduction to the city's outdoor identity. The 6.5-mile round-trip route begins at Griffith Observatory and climbs through chaparral and oak woodland toward Mount Hollywood's 1,625-foot summit, with broad views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown Los Angeles, and, on clear days, the Pacific.

The trail combines recognizable landmarks with a genuine sense of open space. Families can use the fire-road section near the Observatory as a more manageable outing, while stronger hikers can continue toward the summit for a more rewarding climb. Loose soil can become slippery, so supportive hiking shoes are a better choice than casual sneakers.

Arrive by 8 a.m. on weekends if you want a realistic chance at convenient parking and a quieter start. Weekday mornings are usually more relaxed. Starting the hike by 9 a.m. helps you avoid the strongest afternoon heat, while the summit can be especially atmospheric near 5 p.m. for sunset.

Practical rule: There aren't water sources on the trail itself, so carry at least 3 liters per person and plan around heat rather than scenery alone.

A private guide adds real value here because the Observatory, Hollywood Sign, and surrounding hills are tied to Los Angeles film, music, and civic history. A Griffith Park hiking experience can also fit naturally into a day that includes Hollywood Boulevard or a hotel pickup, rather than leaving guests to coordinate every connection themselves.

2. Runyon Canyon

Hollywood energy on a short, steep route

Runyon Canyon is the choice for visitors who want a compact Hollywood workout with a social atmosphere. The main loop is commonly described as about 1.5 miles, while longer variations reach approximately 3.3 to 3.5 miles and include roughly 750 to 900 feet of climbing according to this route guide. That range makes it easy to scale the outing for a couple, a small group, or a quick morning before sightseeing.

The route delivers views toward the Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Bowl, and Griffith Observatory, but the experience is more urban and energetic than Griffith Park. Heavy foot traffic is part of the character. If you're seeking quiet woodland or solitude, this isn't the strongest match. If you want a recognizable Hollywood setting and a vigorous climb without committing to a full day, it works well.

The eastern paved loop is the gentlest option and offers strong views with limited technical difficulty. The steeper switchback sections demand proper footwear, and electrolyte drinks are useful alongside water on warm mornings.

• Best timing: Aim for sunrise, around 6:30 to 7:30 a.m., or choose a weekday morning.
• Parking reality: Nearby street parking may be available when the official lot is full, but restrictions and enforcement can change. Check posted signs rather than relying on informal local assumptions.
• Tour pairing: Follow the hike with Hollywood landmarks, celebrity-home viewing, or a relaxed breakfast away from the trailhead.

Runyon's celebrity and influencer reputation can be fun, but it shouldn't be the sole reason to choose it. A private guide gives a group more context through local film and music history and helps keep the morning moving. The dedicated Runyon Canyon hiking tour is a natural fit for guests who want the route without having to organize the experience themselves.

3. Solstice Canyon to Waterfall

A shaded Malibu escape

Solstice Canyon offers a different side of Malibu, one that feels removed from the beach despite being close to the coast. The 3.7-mile round-trip route follows a seasonal creek through shaded canyon terrain to a 50-foot waterfall and the remains of a mid-century modern home from the 1960s.

The appeal is the contrast. You get riparian vegetation, quiet canyon walls, and architectural history, then you can finish the day with a Malibu meal or a coastal drive. It's less about conquering elevation and more about creating a calm outdoor interlude between beach stops, scenic overlooks, and lunch.

Waterfall conditions are seasonal. November through April generally offers the best chance of seeing stronger flow and greener vegetation, while recent rain can make creek crossings slippery or ankle-deep. Waterproof hiking boots are sensible after wet weather, and creek water should be treated before anyone drinks it.

The best fit for families and couples

The route suits families with children aged 8 and older who are comfortable walking on uneven ground. Arrive by 9 a.m. if solitude matters, since the trail can become busier later in the morning. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, even though the canyon may feel cool and shaded.

The ruins sit slightly away from the main trail. Rather than following every worn social path, ask a ranger for current access guidance. A local guide can make the experience more meaningful by explaining the canyon's geology, history, and Malibu context, then linking the hike with beaches and a carefully timed meal.

This is one of the strongest choices for a private half-day or full-day outing. Guests can hike at a comfortable pace, avoid overpacking the itinerary, and continue toward Malibu's coastline without treating transportation as an afterthought.

4. Eaton Canyon to Waterfall

Pasadena's accessible family gem

Eaton Canyon is a practical choice when a group wants nature without giving up Pasadena's restaurants, cultural attractions, and easy urban connections. The 3.5-mile round-trip hike follows a permanent stream through riparian habitat to a 40-foot waterfall and natural pool, with shaded corridors and interpretive signs along the way.

The route works especially well for families and casual hikers because the destination is clear and the surrounding terrain changes gradually. It doesn't require the commitment of a major ridge hike, yet it still feels like a proper canyon outing. Waterproof boots with ankle support are useful, particularly where damp ground and streamside rocks make footing less predictable.

Spring, from March through May, is a strong season for higher water flow and wildflowers. During the warmer period from June through September, some visitors bring swimwear for the pool, but conditions can vary. Don't assume swimming is appropriate without checking current guidance and water conditions.

• Arrive early: Reach the trailhead by 8:30 a.m. on weekends to improve your parking prospects.
• Plan beyond the trail: Pack a picnic or continue to Old Town Pasadena for dining and a more polished afternoon.
• Prepare offline: Download maps before arrival, since reception can be inconsistent in canyon terrain.
• Make it cultural: A guided outing can combine Eaton Canyon with Pasadena architecture, neighborhood history, or local dining.

For visitors staying in Beverly Hills, Hollywood, or central Los Angeles, Pasadena can feel like a separate excursion. That's where a private itinerary helps. You can spend the morning outdoors, then transition smoothly into Pasadena sightseeing rather than managing unfamiliar roads and parking on your own. A broader guide to cities close to Los Angeles can help place this hike within a wider day plan.

5. Temescal Canyon to Ridge Trail

Flexible coastal hiking in Pacific Palisades

Temescal Canyon is one of the best hiking trails near Los Angeles for travelers who want options. The route combines shaded canyon sections, seasonal creek crossings, and ridge walking with ocean and mountain views. Because you can choose shorter or fuller variations, it's easier to match the outing to a group's fitness, schedule, and appetite for climbing.

Start with the 3-mile loop if you're unsure how the group will respond to the terrain. The canyon feels relatively protected, while the ridge sections become more exposed and require sun protection. Carry at least 3 liters of water per person, especially if the day is warm or your group plans to linger for photographs.

Spring, particularly April and May, brings greener vegetation and wildflowers. Starting by 8 a.m. helps with parking and limits exposure to afternoon heat. If the main lot is full, street overflow may require walking a few minutes before reaching the trailhead, so build flexibility into the schedule rather than arriving with a tightly timed restaurant reservation.

The best route here isn't always the longest loop. It's the version that leaves enough energy for the coast, lunch, and the rest of the day.

Temescal is a strong half-day choice for couples and small groups staying near Santa Monica, Brentwood, or the Westside. Afterward, continue to Pacific Palisades amenities, Santa Monica, or nearby beaches. A private guide can also add neighborhood architecture and dining, turning a standard hike into a more curated coastal experience.

For families, ask about the current route conditions before choosing the full loop. For corporate groups, the flexible format can work better than a demanding summit because participants can enjoy shared scenery without making the day feel like a fitness test.

6. Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak

Malibu's serious ridge challenge

Sandstone Peak is for experienced hikers who want a demanding Los Angeles-area mountain day. The 6.5-mile round-trip section of the Backbone Trail climbs through chaparral and sage scrub toward Sandstone Peak at 3,111 feet, with wide views across the ocean, valleys, and islands when visibility is favorable.

The trail is technically straightforward, but the sustained climbing makes it physically demanding. There's limited relief from sun on exposed sections, and ridge winds can be strong. This is not the route to choose for a first casual hike, a mixed-ability corporate group, or a family hoping for a relaxed Malibu morning.

Start no later than 6:30 a.m. during warmer conditions, with an early arrival around 6 a.m. on weekends if parking is important. Experienced hikers may aim to reach the peak by 8 a.m. for clean morning light and cooler conditions. Bring 4 to 5 liters of water, electrolyte replacement, high-quality hiking boots, and layers that secure loose gear against wind.

• Best season: October through April, when heat is generally easier to manage.
• Fitness standard: Choose this only if every participant is comfortable with sustained elevation gain.
• Special occasions: A professional guide is useful for group events, milestone outings, and guests unfamiliar with exposed ridge terrain.
• Private-day pairing: Continue toward Malibu beaches, a scenic lunch, or a coastal sunset rather than adding another strenuous activity.

Sandstone Peak rewards preparation, not improvisation. Check weather and current trail access before departure, and give the group permission to turn around if heat, wind, or fatigue changes the risk profile.

7. Henninger Flats Trail

Cooler mountain scenery with history

Henninger Flats gives visitors a genuine San Gabriel Mountains escape without requiring a remote backcountry plan. The 4.8-mile round-trip hike climbs through mixed conifer forest to Henninger Flats at 4,570 feet, where historic tree nursery remains, picnic areas, and mountain scenery create a destination that rewards staying awhile.

The elevation changes the feel of the outing. Summer visitors can leave the basin heat behind for noticeably cooler conditions, although the trail still requires water and sun protection. Parking fills quickly on weekends, so an early start is wise. Aim for 8 a.m. if you want to reduce exposure to intense afternoon sun and have more time at the Flats.

This is a strong family option for children aged 8 and older who can manage a sustained uphill walk. Bring a picnic and plan to spend 2 to 3 hours at the destination rather than treating the hike as a quick turnaround. Spring wildflowers are worth watching for in April and May, while summer is especially appealing when the Los Angeles basin feels hot.

Henninger Flats also suits guests who enjoy stories as much as scenery. A guided experience can connect the hike with the history of the tree nursery and continue toward Mount Wilson Observatory, creating a mountain-focused itinerary with educational depth.

When it works best

Choose Henninger Flats for a visitor who has already seen the central Los Angeles icons and wants a cooler, quieter-feeling day. It's less suitable when the priority is the Hollywood Sign, oceanfront dining, or a short walk before an evening reservation.

For a private group, the route can be paced around photography, conversation, and a picnic. That makes it more comfortable than a rigid sightseeing schedule, especially for families or corporate guests who want time outdoors without committing to the technical demands of Sandstone Peak.

8. Torrance Beach to Bluff Trail

Accessible ocean views and an easy day

Torrance Beach to Bluff Trail is the most accessible choice on this list for visitors who want coastal scenery without a demanding climb. The 3-mile coastal bluff walk offers consistent ocean views, tidepools, and access to nearby beach communities. Its flat character and nearby amenities make it suitable for leisure days, mixed-ability groups, and travelers with mobility considerations.

The trail's appeal is its flexibility. You can walk for a shorter period, continue toward Hermosa Beach, or build the outing around tidepooling, lunch, boutiques, and sunset photography. A light jacket is useful because coastal breezes can make the bluff feel cooler than inland Los Angeles.

For fewer crowds, visit mid-week mornings, particularly Tuesday through Thursday between 9 and 11 a.m. Parking is generally available throughout the beach communities, though conditions still vary by exact location and time. Check tide timing before planning tidepool exploration, and keep the route easy enough that the group can enjoy the coast rather than rushing to finish.

• Best for mobility considerations: The accessible trail infrastructure reduces friction for guests who don't want steep or technical terrain.
• Best for couples: Pair the walk with a beachfront lunch, spa time, and a sunset dinner.
• Best for content creators: Bring a camera for open ocean views and changing evening light.
• Best for groups: The flat route makes conversation easier than a steep canyon climb.

This is also a useful alternative when a group's hiking abilities vary widely. Instead of splitting participants between difficult routes, everyone can share the same coastal setting and choose how far to walk. A private tour can coordinate the beach, restaurants, transportation, and sunset timing into one relaxed day.

Top 8 LA Hiking Trails Comparison

Match the Trail to Your Ideal LA Experience

The best hiking trails near Los Angeles depend less on reputation than on fit. If this is your first visit and you want the city's most recognizable outdoor setting, choose Griffith Observatory to Mount Hollywood. It combines Hollywood Sign views, downtown scenery, the Observatory, and a satisfying summit walk. It also connects naturally with Hollywood Boulevard, Beverly Hills, or a broader city highlights itinerary.

Choose Runyon Canyon for a shorter Hollywood workout with a social atmosphere and strong views. It's a better fit for an early morning before sightseeing than for guests seeking solitude. A private guide can add film and music history, which gives the route more substance than following the busiest path uphill.

For shaded waterfall outings, compare Solstice Canyon and Eaton Canyon. Solstice is the more atmospheric Malibu choice, with seasonal creek scenery, waterfall possibilities, and historic ruins. Eaton Canyon is especially practical for families and casual hikers who want a clear destination, interpretive signs, and easy access to Pasadena dining and cultural attractions.

Temescal Canyon is the flexible coastal option. Its shorter and fuller routes allow a guide to adjust the day around fitness, weather, and the group's interest in Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, or a long lunch. For a serious challenge, select Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak, but only when every participant is prepared for sustained climbing, exposure, heat, and substantial water needs.

Choose Henninger Flats when cooler mountain scenery and history matter more than iconic Hollywood imagery. It's a good summer escape from the basin and can be paired with Mount Wilson Observatory. For accessible ocean views and a low-friction outing, Torrance Beach to Bluff Trail offers the easiest combination of scenery, restaurants, beach amenities, and mobility-friendly infrastructure.

Before leaving, confirm the group's fitness, the season, current weather, water requirements, and parking plan. Trail conditions can change, and popular destinations increasingly require visitors to think about crowding, access rules, closures, and conservation rather than scenery alone. The National Park Service recorded 323 million recreation visits in calendar year 2025, with major trail-access destinations among the most visited units, including Blue Ridge Parkway at 16.5 million visitors, Golden Gate National Recreation Area at 15.7 million, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 11.5 million in its visitor data. Popular trails deserve the same practical planning mindset.

Trail satisfaction also depends on details many scenic lists overlook. A U.S. transportation report identified litter, separation from traffic, surface maintenance, surface type, trail width, and water fountains as important trail attributes for users in its assessment of trail preferences. In Los Angeles, that means a well-timed, clean, safe, comfortably paced outing can be more memorable than the most famous trail chosen at the wrong hour.

Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours can help when you want a private guide, a custom route, an e-bike or hike pairing, hotel-area pickup, or a itinerary across Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu, and Griffith. The value is practical. Guests can focus on the the people they're traveling with while a local team handles route decisions, transportation, pacing, and the transition to the next Los Angeles experience.

Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours offers private and small-group hiking experiences that can be structured around Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, Malibu, coastal routes, e-bike outings, and combined Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice, or Griffith itineraries. For a more relaxed day with local guidance, coordinated transportation, and a route matched to your group, visit Another Side Of Los Angeles Tours and plan your Los Angeles hike with a team that knows how to make the day flow.