Angeles National Forest

A short drive from the city can take you into some of the most beautiful mountain wilderness in the country. The Sunset Peak Trail begins with a gradual ascent through a peaceful forest of Jeffrey pines, before opening up to expansive views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the stunning beauty of the area's wildflowers, oak trees, and chaparral vegetation. At the summit of Sunset Peak, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Los Angeles basin, as well as the San Gabriel Mountains and Mount Baldy. It's the perfect place to stop and take in the beauty of the Southern California landscape.

Sierra Madre

This fun 7 mile loop begins in Bailey Canyon Park, leading hikers through lush canyons and tranquil streams, gradually ascending towards Jones Peak. When you reach the summit, breathtaking panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the sprawling cityscape below will greet you. You’ll then come down the popular Mt. Wilson trail, which is far more gradual than the way up and offers stunning views of the canyon the entire way down. If you’re looking for a perfect half day adventure, you can’t peak this loop!

Point Mugu State Park

The best views of the Pacific aren’t the ones you find along the highway. Scattered along the Malibu coastline are multiple trail systems that offer up fun climbs and stunning panoramic views, including the Ray Miller Trail. The trail winds through lush coastal canyons and up and down steep ridges, giving you a true taste of the rugged beauty of the California coastline.

Griffith Park

At five times the size of Central Park, Griffith Park is the largest municipal park in the country. It contains more than 50 miles of fire roads and trails, with great routes for hikers and runners of all ability levels.

The Mt. Hollywood hike is a challenging, but offers stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Our favorite route to the top starts at the Griffith Park Greek Theatre and climbs to the summit via the epic Hogback Trail. The round-trip distance is just over 4 miles, and the elevation gain is about 1,200 feet.

This full day adventure started from the picturesque Icehouse Canyon trailhead and takes you to the summits of Ontario and Cucamonga Peaks, where awe-inspiring vistas of the San Gabriel Mountains await. As you ascend, you'll pass through verdant alpine forests, cross serene creeks, and conquer steep granite slopes, creating a rich tapestry of natural wonders.

Angeles National Forest

Stoddard Peak is a super accessible trail that offers amazing summit views without serious or strenuous climbing. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.

The hike begins at the Barrett Stoddard Road trailhead, which is located just outside Mount Baldy Village. The trail starts out as a wide fire road, but narrows to a single-track trail near the top. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Los Angeles basin. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

Topanga Canyon State Park

The Eagle Rock Loop is a 6.6-mile loop trail in Topanga Canyon State Park that offers stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The hike is moderate in difficulty and can be completed in about 3-4 hours.

The hike begins at the Trippet Ranch parking lot. From there, follow the East Topanga Fire Road north for about 1.5 miles. At the junction with the Eagle Springs Fire Road, turn left and continue for about 0.5 miles to the Eagle Rock Fire Road. Turn right and follow the Eagle Rock Fire Road for about 0.25 miles to Eagle Rock.

Eagle Rock is a large sandstone outcropping that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. From here, you can see the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the city of Los Angeles.