Whether you are new to Los Angeles or are just looking for a way to escape the confines of quarantine, here are five hiking trails offering scenic views, fresh air and a great workout.
Sandstone Peak is located just an hour north of downtown Los Angeles. At 3,111 feet, it is the tallest point in the Santa Monica Mountains. The 6.25-mile loop to the top and back promises some breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, streams, and wildlife. Pack a lunch and stop at the Split Rock Picnic Area for a quick break before heading back on the trail.
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“Considered the recreational crown jewel of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park has over 8,000 acres of rolling tallgrass plains, oak savannahs, and dramatic peaks,” boasts the malibucreekstatepark.org website. Although there are many trails to hike in this park, Grasslands Trail is a beautiful, moderate-level hike through rolling hills covered in tall grass.
The Los Leones to Parker Mesa Trail is a moderately difficult, 7.3-mile route, with 1,300 feet of elevation gain. The trail is lined with lush vegetation and provides some of the most beautiful scenery in the Santa Monica Mountains. It is also known for having one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean in the Los Angeles area, making it a peaceful escape from the city.
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One hour east of downtown Los Angeles are the San Gabriel Mountains and an abandoned bridge on a washed-away road that spans across the East Fork of the San Gabriel River. You can reach the Bride to Nowhere via a 10-mile round trip trail. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to cool down with a dip in the river.
A 6-mile shaded, canyon hike, Solstice Canyon has some hidden gems including a small waterfall, the oldest stone building in Malibu, and the ruins of a burned-down mansion. Just a short distance into the hike provides clear views of the ocean and rugged Southern California coast.