15 Scenic, Easy and Hidden Routes in LA – From Hollywood Hills to Malibu Coast
Los Angeles is often seen as a city of highways, beaches, and film studios – but once you step outside the urban core, it quickly becomes one of the most diverse hiking destinations in the United States. Within less than an hour, you can hike above the Hollywood Sign, walk along coastal cliffs in Malibu, or explore quiet canyons in the Santa Monica Mountains.
If you’re planning your trip, hiking is one of the best ways to experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots. It also pairs perfectly with a classic Los Angeles itinerary, especially if you want to balance sightseeing with nature.
This guide covers the best hiking trails in Los Angeles for 2026, including beginner-friendly routes, scenic viewpoints, and hidden trails away from the crowds.
Why Los Angeles Is One of the Best Cities for Hiking
Most visitors don’t expect a major city like Los Angeles to offer such easy access to nature. But thanks to its location between the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains – along with over 100 km of Pacific coastline – LA is uniquely positioned for outdoor activities.
One of the biggest advantages is variety. In a single trip, you can hike:
- dusty chaparral hills with city views
- shaded canyon trails with waterfalls
- dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific
And because of the mild climate, hiking is possible almost year-round.
If you’re building a broader trip across the region, these hikes also fit perfectly into a California road trip, especially when combined with visits to places like the California national parks.
The Best Hiking Trails in Los Angeles
Griffith Park – Mount Hollywood Trail
Griffith Park is the most iconic hiking area in Los Angeles and an essential stop for first-time visitors. The Mount Hollywood Trail is one of the best routes in the park, offering wide, well-maintained paths and panoramic views of the city.
From the summit, you’ll see the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and – on clear days – even the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the best options if you’re looking for a scenic but relatively easy hike.
This is also a great activity to combine with other attractions nearby, especially if you’re exploring what to do in Los Angeles beyond the typical tourist highlights.
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular hiking spots in LA, known as much for its views as for its atmosphere. Located just minutes from Hollywood, it attracts a mix of locals, tourists, and fitness enthusiasts.
The trails are short but steep in places, making them perfect for a quick workout with a big reward — incredible views over the city skyline.
Because of its central location, Runyon Canyon is easy to include in almost any Los Angeles itinerary, especially if you’re staying in Hollywood or West Hollywood.
Temescal Canyon Loop – Santa Monica Mountains
If you’re looking for a more immersive nature experience, head to the Santa Monica Mountains. The Temescal Canyon Loop is one of the best hikes in the area, combining forest trails, ridge views, and glimpses of the ocean.
The variety of landscapes makes this one of the most rewarding hikes in Los Angeles. It’s also a great choice if you want to escape the city without driving too far.
Point Dume State Beach Trail – Malibu
For coastal scenery, few places in LA compare to Point Dume. This short but stunning trail takes you up above the cliffs of Malibu, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
It’s one of the easiest hikes on this list, making it perfect for a relaxed day. After the hike, you can head down to the beach – one of the best ways to combine outdoor activity with a classic California experience.
Solstice Canyon – Malibu
Solstice Canyon is one of LA’s hidden gems. The trail follows a shaded path through a canyon, leading to the ruins of an old ranch house surrounded by lush vegetation.
It’s a peaceful and less crowded alternative to the more popular Malibu hikes, making it ideal if you’re looking for something quieter.
Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail
For more experienced hikers, Echo Mountain offers one of the best challenges near Los Angeles. The trail climbs steadily through the San Gabriel Mountains to the ruins of a historic railway station.
The effort is rewarded with expansive views across the LA basin – some of the most impressive in the region.
Eaton Canyon Falls – Pasadena
If you’re traveling with family or looking for a relaxed hike, Eaton Canyon is one of the best options. The trail leads to a beautiful waterfall and is relatively easy to navigate.
It’s especially popular after winter rains, when the waterfall is at its strongest.
Best Ocean View Hikes in Los Angeles
If ocean views are your priority, the Santa Monica Mountains are the place to go. Trails here offer a unique combination of mountain terrain and coastal scenery.
The Backbone Trail is one of the most famous long-distance routes in the area, while shorter hikes like Temescal Canyon or Point Dume provide equally impressive views with less effort.
For the best visibility, plan your hike after rain – the air is clearer, and the views stretch much farther across the ocean.
Hidden Hiking Spots in Los Angeles
While places like Runyon Canyon can get crowded, Los Angeles also has plenty of lesser-known trails.
Areas like Topanga State Park, Serrano Valley, or Arroyo Seco offer a completely different experience – quieter, more remote, and often more scenic.
These hidden spots are perfect if you want to avoid crowds and experience a more authentic side of LA.
3-Day Hiking Itinerary in Los Angeles
If hiking is a key part of your trip, you can structure your visit like this:
Day 1: Griffith Park + city views
Day 2: Santa Monica Mountains + ocean views
Day 3: Malibu coast + beach time
This plan fits easily into a longer Los Angeles itinerary, especially if you’re combining hiking with beaches, city attractions, or even attending events or games – for example, exploring Los Angeles sports culture in the evening.
What to Pack for Hiking in Los Angeles
Hiking in LA is relatively accessible, but preparation is still important.
Bring:
- plenty of water (at least 2 liters)
- sunscreen
- comfortable hiking shoes
- a light layer for cooler elevations
Mobile signal can be unreliable in some areas, so downloading offline maps is always a good idea.
Hiking trails in Los Angeles
If hiking is a priority, your choice of location matters.
- Hollywood / Los Feliz → best for Griffith Park
- Santa Monica → best for coastal hikes
- Malibu → best for nature and quieter stays
- For a full breakdown, check our guide on where to stay in Los Angeles, including the best areas depending on your travel style.
Hiking trails in Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers far more than most visitors expect. Beyond the beaches and city life, it’s a destination where you can explore mountains, forests, and coastlines – all within a short distance.
Whether you’re looking for an easy walk with views or a challenging mountain hike, the best hiking trails in Los Angeles offer something for everyone.
And if you’re planning a bigger adventure across the state, these hikes are just the beginning – California’s landscapes only get more impressive from here.
FAQ: Hiking in Los Angeles
What are the best hiking trails in Los Angeles?
The best hiking trails in Los Angeles include Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon, the Santa Monica Mountains, and Malibu trails. These offer a mix of city views, ocean scenery, and easy to moderate difficulty levels.
What is the best hike in Los Angeles for views?
The best hike for views is Griffith Park (Mount Hollywood Trail), offering panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
Are there easy hikes in Los Angeles for beginners?
Yes. The best beginner hikes in Los Angeles include Griffith Observatory trails, Eaton Canyon Falls, and Solstice Canyon. These are short, well-marked, and accessible.
Where can I find ocean view hikes in Los Angeles?
You can find the best ocean view hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu. Top trails include Temescal Canyon and Point Dume.
What is the best time to hike in Los Angeles?
The best time to hike in Los Angeles is spring (March-May) and fall (October-November). For summer, hike early morning or at sunset to avoid heat.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Los Angeles?
Yes. Family-friendly hikes include Eaton Canyon, Franklin Canyon Park, and Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. These trails are safe, short, and easy.
Do I need a car for hiking in Los Angeles?
Yes, in most cases. While some trails like Runyon Canyon are central, many of the best hikes in Los Angeles (Malibu, Santa Monica Mountains) require a car.
Are there hidden hiking spots in Los Angeles?
Yes. The best hidden hiking spots include Topanga State Park, Serrano Valley, and Arroyo Seco. These offer fewer crowds and more nature.
