Original Post by Andrew Renslow
Best Hiking Trails in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. Whether you’re here pursuing your career or visiting just to see what all the fuss is about, sometimes it’s important to escape the awesome excitement of this metropolis and reset yourself in the tranquility only nature can provide. Fortunately, no matter where you are in LA chances are that there is a hiking trail within 15 minutes by car. Here are some of my favorite hiking trails here in Los Angeles.
Leo Carrillo State Park is located just north of Malibu right off the PCH. A stone’s throw away from the ocean, this campground not only offers reasonably priced campsites (starting at $40 a night) but also one of the prettiest trails in the county. Choose either of the 2 trails in the park to enjoy a seaside hike that gets prettier the higher you climb. The best part about these trails is when you get back down to the bottom you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from cooling off in the Pacific Ocean!
If you happen to be in LA after one of the very rare rain storms then you must visit Escondido Falls! Only few minutes south of Leo Carrillo, Escondido Falls Trail is a relatively flat hike aside the Woodley creek that leads you to the first tier of the falls. If you’re up to the challenge, you may choose to climb a much steeper path to the second and much taller tier which, after you catch your breath, is very much worth the effort. I recommend visiting this trail shortly after a some precipitation because the arid climate takes the water out of the falls most of the year.
Griffith Park has a huge network of trails. My favorite is the boy scout trail located near the Roosevelt Café and Greek Theater. This hike has a fun mix of difficulty that keeps your heart pumping without giving you an heart attack. Once you climb a few switchbacks, you are met with your first breathtaking view of Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign, and the Griffith Observatory, the summit of the trail. On a clear day winter day, you can see the Ocean and Catalina Island on one side and turn to see snowcap mountains on the other! Join us on our most popular Hollywood Sign & Griffith Park Hiking Tour!
These trails are so precious to us because they give us a break from the harsh realities of urban living. Trails that are so conveniently located near the city but within minutes elevate you out of civilization to become one with nature. Instead of exercising at a crowded gym or avoiding eye contact with a bad Monroe impersonator on Hollywood blvd, soak up some sun and fresh air, listen to the birds chirp and possibly see a coyote or red tail hawk. Hiking here in LA on a regular basis is the best way to help stay sane in one of the most insane cities.