15 LA Hikes That Will Quite Literally Take Your Breath Away

You don't have to go far to get out of the city and into nature.

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Even the most die-hard Los Angelean needs to get out of the city every once in a while — and when you do, you don't have to go far.

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There are tons of hiking spots in and around the city — from trails with views of the Hollywood sign to routes that traverse alongside the coast. Just make sure that you follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace so you can leave area trails as clean as (or cleaner than) you found them.

1. Wisdom Tree, Cahuenga Peak, and Mount Lee Summit Loop

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There are plenty of hikes in Griffith Park, including several that go to the Hollywood Sign, but unlike most, this 3.9-mile loop actually makes you feel like you're out of the city and in the wilderness. On the way to Cahuenga Peak and Mount Lee, you'll pass the city's beloved Wisdom Tree — the only tree in the area to survive a wildfire.

2. Runyon Canyon Trail

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Located in the Hollywood Hills, this 2.7-mile loop may be popular, but sometimes popularity is a sign of quality. You can bring your pooch and run or hike alongside the beautiful people (and occasional celebrity) of LA.

3. Betty B. Dearing Trail

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This 5-mile out-and-back trail crosses three LA parks — Wilacre, Fryman Canyon, and Coldwater Canyon — and has plenty of shade (a crucial factor in the middle of summer). Known for its wildflowers, this trailhead is just over 25 minutes by car from Downtown LA.

4. Rustic Canyon Loop Trail

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If you're looking for more of a challenge, head to Topanga State Park just north of Santa Monica. While this trail is only 4.5 miles, the first 2 miles can be steep. Bring plenty of water, and keep in mind that the waterfall and graffiti-covered buildings are well worth the climb. For the best views, follow signs for Inspiration Point mid-journey for a detour with views over the Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles Basin, and the Santa Monica Mountains.

5. Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail

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About 30 minutes north of Downtown LA is the community of Altadena. Here, in the Las Flores Canyon of the San Gabriel Mountains, you'll find the Sam Merrill Trail, which leads to Echo Mountain. The 5.4-mile route is well worth the drive, thanks to wildflowers and views of Downtown LA and the San Gabriel Valley.

At the top, keep an eye out for charred, long-forgotten train tracks and ruined foundations — a steep railway once linked the mountaintop to Pasadena, but it was damaged by fires and eventually closed. Which, speaking of, fires can and do happen, so always check weather conditions before you go.

6. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Culver City Steps

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If you're up for short and steep, it's hard to beat the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Culver City Steps, a short loop (1.3 miles total) near Culver City with two routes up. Take the zig-zag trail or hop on the stairs for the most direct (and steepest) journey to the top. Once you arrive at the overlook (and catch your breath), enjoy the view of the city's east-to-west spine. Totally worth the climb.

7. Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon

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Directly west of Downtown LA near Malibu is Corral Canyon Park and within it, the Sara Wan Trailhead, which leads to the Corral Canyon Trail. While somewhat of a drive from the city (35 to 45 minutes), this trail is relatively quiet (!!) and boasts both ocean and mountain views. Along the hike's 2.5 miles, you'll walk beneath coast live oak, California sycamores, and willow trees — it feels like wilderness after a day spent in LA.

8. Escondido Falls Trail

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This pup-friendly 3.7 mile out and back trail is also near Malibu in Escondido Canyon Park. If you make the trip, you'll definitely want to venture to the mossy Upper Escondido Falls, pull out some picnic provisions, and settle in before you head back.

9. Vasquez Rocks Trail

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The otherworldly rock formations found along the Vasquez Rocks Trail are so distinct, they might almost look familiar. Located near Santa Clarita, the terrain was used as a backdrop in TV shows such as Star Trek, Bonanza, Mission: Impossible, and The Twilight Zone, as well as some movies. In addition to being a TV and film-buff hot spot, this 2.6-mile loop provides a great heart-pumping workout that gets you away (somewhat) from the buzz of the city.

10. Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail

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It might be the hardest hike on this list, but it's kind of a must if you're into the LA hiking scene. The 9.6-mile loop trail ascends the 10,068-foot summit of Mount San Antonio (which is also known as Mount Baldy). On the way down, leave time to hang at the beautiful San Antonio Falls and bring along a post-summit treat — you'll have earned it.

11. Mandeville Canyon Trail

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For incredible views of the coastline and greater LA, head to Mandeville Canyon Trail north of Brentwood. This 7.1-mile out and back trail runs along a canyon pinched between two ridges. Known for its wildflowers and dog-friendly access, this hike is relatively flat and perfect for newbies.

12. Palos Verdes Bluffs Trail

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Within Portuguese Bend Reserve — which has a maze of trails and is less crowded than most LA parks — you'll find the Palos Verdes Bluffs Trail, a 2.7-mile loop near Rancho Palos Verdes. In addition to more space to yourself, the hike delivers Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island views.

13. Mishe Mokwa to Tri-Peaks and Sandstone Peak

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Just over one hour from LA, beyond Malibu, you'll have access to the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains. The 6.8-mile trail traverses past canyons and peaks to Sandstone Peak, the highest point in the mountain range. From the top, you'll catch unparalleled views over the ocean and Santa Monica Bay.

14. Elysian Park West Loop Trail

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It doesn't get more LA than Elysian Park, which sits just north of Downtown and houses Dodger Stadium. But even with its central location, the Elysian Park West Loop Trail somehow manages to offer up a hefty dose of nature along the trail's 2.3 miles. Don't expect solitude — but sometimes, all you need is a little jaunt among all things green.

15. Glendale Peak Trail

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When it comes to hiking in LA, it really is hard to beat Griffith Park. And inside the popular hiking destination is the Glendale Peak Trail, a 3.6-mile loop that takes you to the top of the peak — and delivers stellar views. On a clear day, you might even be able to see from the San Gabriel Mountains to the sea.

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