Los Angeles, a bustling metropolis, is more than just a place for movies, shopping, and food. It also has some amazing natural attractions around it, especially for those who love hiking and exploring nature. Whether it’s mountains, canyons, or coastal hiking trails, there are a series of green and natural landscapes around Los Angeles waiting for you to discover.
1. Griffith Park – The perfect hiking route in an urban oasis
Location and introduction
Griffith Park is the largest urban park in Los Angeles and one of the most popular places for hiking and outdoor activities. This park is located in the north of downtown Los Angeles and is adjacent to the famous Griffith Observatory, one of the most iconic attractions in Los Angeles.
There are many hiking trails of varying difficulty in the park, the most famous of which is the trail leading to the Griffith Observatory, where you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Los Angeles city.
Recommended route
Griffith Observatory Trail: This is a classic route suitable for hikers of all levels. The trail is about 3 kilometers long. Although the slope is steep, the scenery along the way is worth your effort. The observatory at the top is the best place to see the panoramic view of Los Angeles, especially at sunset.
Fern Dell Trail: This route is relatively gentle and suitable for beginners or family tourists. Passing through the dense forest, visitors can see streams, rocks and a wide variety of vegetation, which is very suitable for a leisurely walk.
Opening hours and recommended playing time
Opening hours: Griffith Park is open all day, and the observatory is open from 12 noon to 10 pm every day (for specific times, please refer to the official website).
Recommended playing time: It is recommended to go there in the early morning or evening, so that you can not only avoid the heat at noon, but also enjoy the most beautiful sunrise or sunset.
Transportation and booking platform
Transportation route: Griffith Park is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles. Visitors can choose to drive or take public transportation. The most convenient way is to take a bus to the observatory via Hollywood Blvd.
Cost
Admission to the park is free.
Observatory activity fees: Observatory activities generally cost around $10, and the specific price may vary depending on the event.
2. Joshua Tree National Park-a perfect fusion of desert and mountains
Location and introduction
Located about two hours southeast of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is a unique nature reserve that combines desert landscapes and alpine landforms. There are hiking trails of various difficulties in the park, suitable for hikers of different levels.
Recommended route
Hidden Valley Trail: This 4.8-kilometer circular trail is one of the most famous short hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. It is moderately difficult and suitable for most tourists. The route crosses huge rocks, and visitors can observe the unique Joshua trees and other desert vegetation up close.
Ryan Mountain Trail: This 7-kilometer intermediate trail is suitable for visitors who want to challenge themselves. The scenery along the way includes mountains, canyons and vast deserts. After reaching the top, you can overlook the magnificent view of the entire park.
Opening hours and recommended time to play
Opening hours: Joshua Tree National Park is open all year round, but during the hot summer period, it is recommended to go out in the morning or evening. The park entrance is open 24 hours a day.
Recommended time to play: The best hiking season is spring and autumn, when the temperature is suitable and the scenery is the most charming.
Transportation and reservation platform
Transportation route: From Los Angeles, drive east along I-10 for about 2 hours to reach Joshua Tree National Park. It is recommended to drive there because there is not much public transportation in the park.
Cost
Entrance fee: About US$30/car, and you can enjoy a 7-day pass after entering the park.
Camping Fee: Camping sites in the park charge about $15-25 per night, depending on the season and the campsite.
3. Hiking route around the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Location and Introduction
Located in downtown Los Angeles, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is an oasis in the city. The hiking route here is suitable for tourists who don’t want to leave the city. There are many trails in the park suitable for walking and hiking.
Recommended route
Exposition Park Loop: This route is about 2 kilometers and surrounds the Natural History Museum and the California Science Center. It is a route suitable for a relaxing walk. On the way, you can enjoy the gardens, fountains and grass around the museum.
Southwest Museum Trail: This trail is slightly challenging and suitable for tourists who want to take a longer hike. It will take you through the green space next to the museum, and you can see the distant view of downtown Los Angeles on the way.
Opening hours and recommended play time
Opening hours: The museum and the surrounding green space are open all day. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Recommended time to visit: It is recommended to hike in the morning or evening to avoid the hustle and bustle of downtown Los Angeles.
Transportation and booking platform
Transportation route: The Natural History Museum is located in downtown Los Angeles. Visitors can choose to take the subway or bus to get there. Self-driving tourists can park in the nearby parking lot.
Cost
Museum tickets: Generally $15-20, some exhibitions may be charged separately.
Hiking routes are free: There is no charge for trails around the park and the museum.
4. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area-Charming Hikes in the Coastal Canyons
Location and Introduction
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful natural attractions around Los Angeles, located west of the city, about 30 minutes drive from the city. There is abundant wildlife and a variety of hiking routes, from the coastline to the top of the mountains, suitable for hikers of all levels.
Recommended Route
Solstice Canyon Trail: This 3.2-kilometer circular route is suitable for all levels of hikers. The route passes through a picturesque canyon where visitors can see waterfalls, historical sites, and surrounding vegetation.
Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak: This is an intermediate hiking route in Santa Monica Mountains National Park, with a total length of about 6.5 kilometers. Once at the top, visitors will be able to enjoy the beautiful coastline and stunning views of the Los Angeles Basin.
Opening Hours and Recommended Visiting Times
Opening Hours: Santa Monica Mountains National Park is open year-round. It is recommended to avoid the high temperatures in summer, and the spring and autumn seasons are the most pleasant.
Recommended Visiting Times: The best time to hike is in the morning or evening to avoid the high temperatures during the day.
Transportation and Reservation Platform
Transportation Route: From downtown Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). There are multiple entrances in the park to suit different visitor needs.
Costs
Entrance to the park is free. However, if you choose to camp in the park, the cost of camping is about $20-40 per night, depending on the season and the camping location.
5. California Coastal Trail – A beautiful coastal hike
Location and introduction
The California Coastal Trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, running through the entire coastline of California. Around Los Angeles, especially from Malibu to Santa Monica, this coastal trail offers great natural scenery and outdoor experiences.
Recommended routes
Point Dume State Beach Trail: This short route is suitable for family tourists and is about 1.6 kilometers in total. Along the way, you can enjoy the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and quiet beaches.
Zuma Canyon Trail: This 5-kilometer intermediate trail passes through the coastal canyon and is suitable for more challenging hikers. The scenery along the way is beautiful and there are many hidden beaches along the way.
Opening hours and recommended time to visit
Opening hours: Open all year round, suitable for hiking in the early morning and evening, avoiding the midday sun and heat.
Recommended time to visit: The best time to hike is in spring and autumn, when the temperature is suitable and the scenery is most charming.
Transportation and reservation platform
Transportation route: Visitors can choose to drive there by themselves, and the park provides ample parking. You can also take public transportation, although the service is limited.
Cost
The trails are free, but some beaches and state parks may charge a small parking fee.
With these beautiful hiking routes around Los Angeles, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility and beauty brought by nature. Each route has its own unique charm and is suitable for hikers of all levels. I hope you can find your own green path and start an unforgettable hiking trip!
