Menu Close

Los Angeles Hiking Trails For Outdoor Fun

Submitted by: Darla Blackmon

There is much to like about living in Los Angeles. The warm climate, the proximity to the ocean, Hollywood and a many other attractions make this a great place to call home. A person who lives in this city never needs to feel bored. Los Angeles has long been a magnet attracting all kinds of people who seek the delights of a southern California lifestyle. There are many choices of things to do out-of-doors for Angelinos. That includes hundreds of hiking trails. Here are four trails you may want to check out. Most are a moderate length, so you need not be a dedicated hiker to enjoy them. As you take a hike, think about this: LA is not famous for its hiking, but it should be.

1. The Hollywood Sign Hike

Tourists and locals alike enjoy the Hollywood Sign Hike in Griffith Park. This five-mile hike takes you within about 20 feet of the world-famous Hollywood sign. A fence prevents hikers from going closer or touching it. The highlight of this hike is the fabulous view of the Los Angeles urban area. The trail goes up the backside of the hill. It is not usually crowded, and hikers can take a picnic lunch if they desire.

2. Runyon Canyon Park

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHV4js8BzxQ[/youtube]

This park, located at Franklin and Fuller Avenues in Los Angeles, has the ideal hike for dog lovers. Unlike most parks, here your dog can run free and enjoy the day as much as his master. For those who don t have a dog, or are afraid of dogs, this particular park might not be the best choice. However, it is a good place to get a cardio workout, and there are terrific views of Los Angeles.

3. The Santa Monica Mountains Trails

These mountains, peaking at 3,111 feet, are in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This hiking and recreation area covers 65,000 acres and is the home of deer, skunks, rabbits, coyotes, rattlesnakes, foxes, hawks and quails. In the spring, flowers are in bloom and everything is green. A variety of trails are available, so a hiker may want to come here frequently. A favorite trail is the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook Trail. It is only 0.7 of a mile round-trip but gives hikers access to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook at the top of the ridgeline. There are panoramic views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Point Dume, Santa Monica Bay and Balloria Creek. This trail is located at the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, 4100 South La Cienega Boulevard in Los Angeles.

4. Sullivan Canyon

Sullivan Canyon offers a fourth great hiking trail. This 7.5 mile long trail passes through a canyon shaded by beautiful sycamore, oak and willow trees. The first few miles are a gradual uphill climb, but the last mile or so is a bit steeper. The trail is well-maintained, and there are unusual colored rock formations. This hike does not feature particularly beautiful views; however it is very quiet and peaceful and has little creeks running though the main trail. It is a nice place to go to just enjoy nature.

Few cities offer so many diverse and beautiful hikes as Los Angeles. It provides a great experience to get out and enjoy them.

About the Author: If you’re planning a Southern California vacation, plan a few days to visit

Long Beach attractions

like the El Dorado Nature Center or the aquarium. You’ll find plenty of

events in Long Beach

for outdoor fun.

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=604633&ca=Travel