Los Angeles can feel like nonstop noise until you find a trailhead tucked behind a neighborhood street. Hikes in Los Angeles aren’t one thing, they’re a whole menu: ridge walks with skyline views, ocean trails with salty air, and shady canyon paths that make you forget you’re still in the city.
The best part is how fast it all is. Many popular hikes sit 10 to 30 minutes from everyday LA life, so a “quick walk” can turn into a full reset before lunch.
One heads-up: a lot of LA’s most popular trails are moderate, sunny, and short on shade. That’s great for winter mornings, but it also means planning matters. Below are reliable, go to hikes plus fast tips for picking the right trail for your time, legs, and tolerance for crowds.
Best hikes in Los Angeles for big views (iconic, close to the city)
Runyon Canyon: the classic LA workout with Hollywood views
Distance and effort: about 2.7 miles with around 757 feet of gain (moderate), with routes you can adjust to roughly 1 to 4 miles.
Runyon is the “I want views now” hike. You climb quickly, and you get a sweep of Hollywood, downtown LA, and clear days can frame the Hollywood Sign in the distance. It also has a social, dog-friendly vibe, including off-leash areas, so expect to share the trail.
Best time: early morning for cooler temps and calmer trails.
Practical tip: parking is the hardest part. If you can, go on a weekday and arrive early. For route options and what to expect, this Runyon Canyon trail guide is a handy reference.
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Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon: the most famous hike in Los Angeles
Distance and effort: about 6 miles round trip with about 1,171 feet of gain (moderate to challenging for beginners).
Starting from Canyon Drive in Griffith Park, this is steady uphill with a payoff that feels like peak LA. You won’t touch the sign, but you’ll get close enough for classic photos, plus wide views back across the city.
Best time: early morning, especially on weekends, because heat and crowds build fast.
Photo tip: for cleaner shots, aim for viewpoints where the sign sits higher than the ridgeline behind it, and bring sun protection because most of the route is exposed.
Griffith Observatory and Mount Hollywood Trail: skyline views without leaving town
Distance and effort: about a 5.3-mile loop (moderate), with clear signage and multiple viewpoints.
This loop stacks scenic moments. You get the Observatory from above, then the full LA basin opens up as you climb. It’s also easy to shorten if you’re tight on time or hiking with a mixed group.
Best time: sunset is beautiful, but it’s also when parking gets tough.
Practical tip: carry more water than you think you’ll need since shade is limited. If you want to compare alternate routes in the area, the Griffith Park trail listings on AllTrails make it easy to gauge distance and elevation before you go.
Best LA hikes for nature vibes (waterfalls, shade, and ocean air)
January can be a sweet spot for “nature first” hikes around LA. Cooler temps make climbs feel easier, and waterfalls are often best after rain. The tradeoff is mud, slick rock, and the occasional trail closure after storms. Check conditions and don’t force a route that feels sketchy.
Solstice Canyon Loop in Malibu: shade, ruins, and a seasonal waterfall
Distance and effort: about 3.0 miles with around 669 feet of gain (moderate).
Solstice Canyon feels softer than most LA hikes. You get more shade than the typical ridgeline grind, plus creekside scenery, a small seasonal waterfall, and the ruins of a past mansion that add a weird, cinematic twist.
Seasonal note for January: go after a rainy week for better water flow.
Practical tip: wear shoes with grip if it’s muddy. For current park information and alerts, the NPS Solstice Canyon page is the most reliable place to check before you drive out.
Switzer Falls: a short waterfall hike close to Los Angeles
Distance and effort: about 3.7 miles with around 692 feet of gain (moderate).
Switzer Falls is a classic “I can’t believe this is so close” hike. The canyon setting makes it feel cooler than open ridges, and the waterfall can be a real payoff in winter when rain has been steady.
Seasonal note for January: it can be a great month if storms have rolled through, but trails can be muddy and water levels can change quickly.
Safety tip: stream crossings can get slippery. Turn around if the crossing feels unsafe, and check recent conditions before you go.
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A coastal option in the Santa Monica Mountains: ocean views without a long drive
If you want ocean air without turning it into an all-day mission, the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu area give you “choose your own effort” trails. Shorter coastal walks are great for an easy day, and longer climbs buy you bigger overlooks where the coastline looks like a map.
How to pick fast: if you’re going with someone new to hiking, choose something shorter and flatter. If you want that postcard viewpoint, pick a route with a steady climb and commit to taking it slow.
Practical tip: bring a wind layer. Coastal ridges can feel cold even when the sun is bright, and popular trailhead parking fills early.
How to choose the right hike in Los Angeles (easy planning tips that save your day)
Quick checklist: distance, elevation gain, shade, and crowds
In LA, the mileage doesn’t tell the whole story. A “moderate” hike often means a steady uphill that keeps going longer than you expect. Elevation gain is usually the better clue for effort, especially if you’re hiking in sun.
A simple rule: if the climb is close to 700 to 1,200 feet, expect to feel it, even if the hike is under 6 miles.
Crowds also change the vibe. Popular trails can feel like a moving sidewalk on weekends. Early mornings help, and weekdays are calmer if your schedule allows it. If you want a quieter experience, pick a canyon trail or go when most people are still at brunch.
What to bring for LA hikes in January: water, sun protection, and a light layer
Winter in LA can still feel hot when you’re exposed on a ridge. Many trails have little shade, so water matters year-round.
Bring the basics: water, a hat, sunscreen, a snack, and comfortable shoes. Add a light jacket for cooler mornings, especially if you’ll be on a breezy viewpoint. After rain, expect mud, and plan for slower footing.
For more local trail ideas across the region, Discover Los Angeles’s hiking guide is a solid overview when you want to branch out beyond the usual names.
Conclusion
LA makes it easy to fit nature into a busy week. You can hike for skyline views near Hollywood, or head to canyons and coastal trails when you want something greener and quieter. A little planning helps, especially with sun exposure, crowds, and parking. Pick one city-view hike and one nature-style hike for your next two weekends, save this list, start early, and bring water. Your future self will thank you at the first viewpoint.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the best time of day for hikes in Los Angeles?
A1: Early morning is best for cooler temps, easier parking, and smaller crowds.
Q2: Are these hikes good for beginners?
A2: Yes, but “moderate” in LA often means steady uphill and full sun, start with a shorter option and take breaks.
Q3: Do I need hiking boots?
A3: Not always, but grippy shoes help a lot after rain, especially on muddy canyon trails.
Q4: Can I hike after it rains in January?
A4: Yes, but check conditions first, watch for slick trails and stream crossings, and turn around if it feels unsafe.
Disclaimer
Trail conditions, access rules, and closures can change at any time due to weather, fire risk, maintenance, or park regulations. Distances and elevation can vary by route choice and GPS recording. Check official park websites and recent trail reports before you go, follow posted signs, and hike within your ability. This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for on-trail judgment or safety guidance.
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