Most tourists who visit Los Angeles go to the typical places: the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, Universal Studios and Rodeo Drive. They spend a lot of time fighting the crowds, and navigating the city’s congested freeways. But there’s another way to see the sights of the city that will give you a unique perspective: take a hike.
A city known for glitz and glamour, L.A. doesn’t seem like the kind of place where you could get close to nature. Prepare to be surprised. Trails for hiking, walking or jogging are scattered throughout the city in parks, along rivers, through famous neighborhoods and in the mountain ranges. For everyone planning California vacations this summer, check out some of these hikes for a taste of the diversity and singular personality of California’s largest city:
Runyon Canyon Loop (about three miles)
This is the kind of hike that can only be found in Los Angeles. The trail winds through the heart of the Hollywood Hills, and features views of million dollar mansions, the Hollywood sign and the Sunset Strip. From the trail summit, known as Cloud’s Rest, you’ll see vistas of the L.A. basin. If you want solitude, you won’t find it here: count on good people-watching.
Topanga State Park (about five miles)
If you are on a budget, and have already saved a bundle on cheap flights, you’ll be happy to know that the priceless views you’ll discover on these trails won’t cost you a cent. Considered to be the world’s largest wild land located within the boundaries of a major metropolitan area, Topanga State Park is situated in the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains and offers 36 miles of trails. Check out the trail that begins at Temescal Canyon Fire Road trailhead. This strenuous hike in the hills above the Pacific Coast Highway features a unique geologic landscape and stunning views of the Pacific to the west and the glittering city to the east.
Griffith Park (about one mile)
Right in the center of the city of Los Angeles, Griffith Park, at 4,107 acres, is the largest urban park in America. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails, but one of the prettiest is Fern Dell trail, which begins near the Western Avenue entrance. It’s a lush, shady walk filled with ferns and other tropical plants, streams and waterfalls. The upper part of the trail offers views of the Griffith Observatory, the city and beyond.
You should have no problem finding cheap flights into Los Angeles most times of the year. It’s time to get out there and enjoy the view – the trails are waiting.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
