L.A.'s Best Trails | Hiking in Los Angeles
2020 has been the year of many things, but I would say “walking” has been a major topic of discussion between friends, family, and social media. As I have mentioned before, #walkingisahobby and this year I even posted a 10 mile walking challenge and encouraged my friends to try walking 10 miles in 24 hours.
When time allows, I expand my neighborhood walks to hiking trails. Getting familiar with the trails in your area is a lovely way to discover where you live. Below, I have listed my top hiking trails in the LA/Santa Monica/Malibu areas.
Before we get started, it must be noted that we are living in a pandemic, so here is some hiking etiquette.
Practice social distancing by staying six feet away from others on the hike.
Face coverings/mask are required. If you are on a trail and passing by someone, it is respectful to have your mask on.
Inspiration Point
Distance:
Where: Will Rogers State Park - Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles
A favorite. If you are an LA local or visiting out of town, Inspiration Point’s view is worth seeing. Once you reach the top you can see from Malibu to Downtown Los Angeles on a clear day. The hike itself isn’t too strenuous, but you will get a pretty decent workout. If you are looking for a new hike to do with your family or for yourself, I highly suggest this one. Side Note: If you’re lucky you’ll see some locals riding their horses up the path.
Photo from: @amyseder
Photo from: @sarakrakovsky
Escondido Falls Trail
Distance: 3.7 Miles
Where: Malibu, Los Angeles
This is another great hike that you and your whole family can do together. While this is also considered an easy hike, you still get a nice workout in and you are rewarded with a beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail! During the spring and summer months, the trail is lined with gorgeous flowers and greenery that you can enjoy on your hike. The trail is open year-round, but if you are looking for a scenic walk, I would highly suggest going from March-September!
photo from All Trails
photo from All Trails
Solstice Canyon Loop
Distance: 3.2 Miles
Where: Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles
The Solstice Canyon Loop hike is on of my favorites if I am looking for a more intense workout. It is a bit rockier and steeper than the first two hikes - making it a moderate-level hike. The hike itself is gorgeous and offers plenty of stops along the way to catch your breath and reel in the scenery.
Photo from All Trails
photo from All Trails
Runyon Canyon Trails
Distance: 2.7 Miles
Where: West Hollywood, Los Angeles
For all the hike-lovers and experienced walkers, Runyon Canyon is for you. If you’re on Instagram, you probably see a lot of influencers posting at this specific hiking trail - and for good reason. Although the hike can be difficult at certain points (listed as “difficult” on All Trails), it has stunning views and you can take your time enjoying the path.
Photo from All Trails
Photo from: @camilacoelho
Franklin Canyon Park
Distance: 5 Trail Options - Ranging from 0.6 to 2 miles
Where: Beverly Hills, Los Angeles
Franklin Canyon Park is for all my Beverly Hills friends. This gorgeous park has 5 different trail options ranging from 0.6 to 2 miles. These trails are perfect for walking your dog or taking an afternoon stroll. They surround a lake and are a hidden gem in Los Angeles.
Photo from All Trails
Photo from All Trails
If you are looking for new ways to move throughout the day, walking is the way to go. The All Trails website is very helpful when I’m traveling and looking for new places to explore.
I hope you enjoy taking in the natural beauty of these trails just as much as I do!
A few of my hiking favorites include:
Like the playlist says, I hope you are nature bound and take in every moment.
