My Three Favorite Beginner Hikes in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is known for its beautiful mountains and there are tons of amazing hikes in the area. As a novice hiker, I wanted to share my favorite spots around the city. While most LA natives grew up hiking, I did not. The nearest hike to my home in New York City was probably a state or two over. I’ve never been an outdoorsy person, nor did I like the lack of bathroom accessibility or the dirt that I had to scrub from my ankles.
Hiking has grown on me since moving to Los Angeles and even more so during quarantine. Now is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and Vitamin D. Here are my three favorite hikes that are great if you’re a beginner like me:
Runyon Canyon
Since this trail is only 5 minutes from my apartment, Runyon Canyon is one of my favorite hikes. It is also a favorite of nearly every Angeleno, meaning it can get really crowded. The area offers a variety of trail lengths, ranging from a 2 mile loop, up to a 3.5 mile hike. The breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign and downtown are unbeatable for this convenient spot. Parking is a nightmare, which is the main reason I don’t go more often. There are a limited number of neighborhood spots, and tons of permit restrictions, so it can take a while to park. Currently, half of the 2 mile loop is closed due to COVID, so I recommend planning for the longer trail.
View of the Hollywood Sign from Runyon Canyon
Will Rogers State Park
This was one of my first hikes when I moved to Los Angeles. The park itself is gorgeous: it has a large polo field, horse back riding, and beautiful views. The land used to be owned by famous actor Will Rogers, and his widow eventually donated the area to California State Parks in 1944. The hike is a moderate 2.5 mile loop to Inspiration Point with amazing views of the Pacific Palisades, the ocean, and even downtown on a clear day. Parking starts at $5.00 and this guarantees you a convenient parking spot, a clean bathroom, and a drinking fountain. There are benches along the hike, so you can even bring a picnic for a scenic lunch.
Kids horseback riding along the Inspiration Point Trail at Will Rogers State Park
San Vicente Mountain Park
I tried this hike for the first time two weeks ago as a recommendation from a co-worker and I can’t believe I hadn’t done it before! The trail is a 1.5 mile path, so 3 miles to the end and back. While I wish it had been a loop, the views were amazing with a moderate elevation gain. You can see the valley, downtown, and the ocean. The drive to the hike is stunning. It winds along Mulholland Drive for about 3 miles past the I-405. There is a convenient parking lot at the end of the gravel road, and if its busy, feel free to park on the road itself.
My hiking look ;)
Mask Wearing
I have done all three trails over the last month and only 30% of hikers are wearing masks. This is bad. Especially while hiking a crowded trail like Runyon, mask wearing is essential to stop COVID. Of course it is uncomfortable and inconvenient to wear a mask, but so is getting sick and needing a ventilator machine. Many people hike with friends outside of their households, which makes it so essential to wear a mask. Please help stop the spread, and put on your mask. (As a note, I briefly took of my mask for these photos while maintaining social distance)
What are you favorite hikes in Los Angeles? Let me know in the comments below!
