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Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California, is a true outdoor treasure trove. From breathtaking beaches to scenic trails, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the best trails in the area will surely provide you with a unique, awe-inspiring experience. For those seeking a more relaxing activity, the area's top attractions, such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios, are must-visit destinations. From sightseeing to picturesque scenery, the area has it all. With so much to explore, it's no wonder why the area is a popular destination for outdoor lovers.

Top Spots in and near Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles, California

    Explore the Venice Canals

    4.3
    1 mi
    The canals are a fun and quiet place to relax away from the hectic Venice boardwalk. Take a stroll through the canals or even get in a run! The reflections in the water are the main attraction and are great for photography. Spring, after some rain, is the best time to go as the water levels are g...
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  • Verdugo Mountains, California

    Hike the Verdugo Mountain Traverse

    5.0
    12.3 mi / 1540 ft gain
    The Verdugo Mountain Range is a small, rugged range spanning across the northeast end of the San Fernando Valley from Sun Valley to Glendale. With close to 50 miles of graded and well maintained trails, the Verdugos are surprisingly underutilized and make a great place for someone looking to esca...
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  • Arcadia, California

    Hermit Falls Trail

    4.8
    2.49 mi / 1014 ft gain
    Note: Hermit Falls is Temporarily Closed From Roberts Camp, many hikers will head to Sturtevant Falls, which is an amazing 60-foot waterfall. But, if you choose to head in the opposite direction on First Water Trail, you’ll be rewarded with a fresh water swimming hole at this 35-foot tumbling wa...
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  • Arcadia, California

    Sturtevant Falls

    4.6
    1.61 mi / 423 ft gain
    This trail is currently closed. Visit the Forest Service website for updates.  As you head down to Roberts Camp, a historic set of historic cabins, you’ll head out on a steep, paved road for approximately 0.6 miles. Once you reach the camp, head over the bridge and keep an eye out for the sign f...
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  • Arcadia, California

    Mt. Wilson Loop from Chantry Flat

    4.5
    12.74 mi / 4852 ft gain
    Mt. Wilson is one of the more difficult mountains in the San Gabriel to hike, making this adventure Intermediate. While 5,700 feet doesn't seem that tall, the mountain has a prominence of almost 5,300 feet, meaning that hike is steeper and longer than some of the other popular mountains that star...
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  • Monrovia, California

    Hike to Monrovia Falls

    3.7
    1.5 mi / 700 ft gain
    The Monrovia Falls are at the end of the main trail located in Monrovia Canyon Park. The park is easy to locate and has ample parking. Keep in mind you do have to pay a fee of $6 on weekends and $5 on weekdays. Additionally, all cars need to exit the parking areas at 5PM. Alternatively, you can p...
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  • Burbank, California

    Run the Old Youth Camp Loop

    2.6 mi / 700 ft gain
    The Old Youth Camp Loop is a 2.6-mile loop with over 700 feet of elevation gain that can be ran, hiked, or even mountain biked if you prefer. While not completely empty the area receives very little visitors and is a great place to enjoy a little more solitude than near by hiking locations. The l...
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  • Seal Beach, California

    Seal Beach

    4.7
    Seal Beach is a small beach community between Long Beach and Huntington Beach. Right off PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), this sandy beach is a great place to chill on a hot summer day. The high winds coming off the water makes it an ideal place to kite board, surf, or simply fly a kite along the sho...
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  • Los Angeles County, California

    San Gabriel Peak

    4.0
    2.79 mi / 1040 ft gain
    At 6,000 feet, San Gabriel Peak gives you one of the best views of the Los Angeles basin on the front range of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. As you pass through Muller Tunnel, the trail will be littered with rocks and boulders. A little over 100 feet in, the road will fork in thre...
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  • Los Angeles County, California

    Idlehour Trail

    4.0
    14.89 mi / 4665 ft gain
    Idlehour Trail is an out-and-back trail that is strenuous located near Mount Wilson, California.
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Summit Verdugo Peak

    5.0
    7.5 mi / 1838 ft gain
    Verdugo Peak, at 3000 feet, is accessible from multiple directions and trails along the Verdugo Range. The most direct route to the top is Hostetter Fire Road, a 3.6 mile hard packed dirt trail that climbs 1600 feet to the 3,126 foot summit. The hike begins at the dirt parking lot off of La Tuna ...
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  • Santa Monica, California

    Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

    4.0
    3.33 mi / 20 ft gain
    The Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail in Santa Monica, California, offers a unique blend of coastal and urban hiking. The trail is a flat, paved 3.33-mile loop that is suitable for all skill levels. It starts at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark known for its Ferris wheel and...
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  • Santa Monica, California

    Spend a Day at the Santa Monica Pier

    4.2
    *Unlimited photography options with the ferris wheel, beach, ocean, and sunsets *Abundant people watching opportunities  *Plenty of ways to get a workout in including swimming, volleyball courts, running, or riding a bike There is a bike and walking path that runs along the coast.  One of my favo...
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  • Palos Verdes Estates, California

    Catch a Sunset at Bluff Cove

    4.4
    Parking for Bluff Cove is located along the sides of the street of Paseo Del Mar, and the trailhead is located right next to the street. Bluff Cove is one of those unique locations in that there are a variety of activities you can do here.It is a great location for surfing, paddle boarding, body ...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Hike Verdugo's North Ridge Trail

    13 mi / 3221 ft gain
    The Verdugo Mountain Range is a small, rugged range spanning across the northeast end of the San Fernando Valley from Sun Valley to Glendale. With close to 50 miles of graded and well maintained trails, the Verdugos are surprisingly underutilized and make a great place for someone looking to esca...
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  • Azusa, California

    Fish Canyon Falls

    2.0
    4.08 mi / 801 ft gain
    This trail is currently closed! Learn more on the U.S. Forest Service website. Follow Encanto Parkway towards the hills until you come to a junction with a sign labeled "trail" that points towards a parking lot to your right. Parking is free, though on weekends it may be difficult to find a spot...
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