The Best Hiking Trails in Runyon Canyon Park
L.A. is known for a lot of things—Hollywood, celebrities, LA traffic—but one thing that sometimes gets overlooked is our great outdoors. The city may be mostly concrete and buildings, but there are plenty of green spaces to enjoy if you know where to look. And one of the best places to start is Runyon Canyon Park.
Situated in the Hollywood Hills, Runyon Canyon Park offers amazing views of the city while still feeling miles away from the hustle and bustle. The park is home to a number of hiking trails of varying difficulty, so whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for you. Here are some of our favorites:
The Loop Trail: This is the shortest and easiest trail in the park, making it perfect for beginners or those short on time. The loop is only about 1.6 miles long, but don’t let the short distance fool you—you’ll still get a good workout in thanks to the elevation gain. And of course, the views from the top are well worth the effort.
The River Trail: If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, try the River Trail. This trail adds an extra mile to The Loop, and includes a section that runs along Mulholland Drive—one of L.A.’s most iconic roads. The River Trail is also one of the best spots in the park for birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled!
The Fire Road Trail: For hikers who really want to earn their views, the Fire Road Trail is definitely the way to go. This trail is almost three miles long and has an elevation gain of over 600 feet, so come prepared with plenty of water and snacks. But trust us, it’s worth it—the views from up here are incredible.
So next time you’re looking for something to do on a free weekend day, head on over to Runyon Canyon Park and explore one (or all!) of these great hiking trails. And don’t forget your camera—you’re going to want to remember this hike for years to come.