Run on down to Runyon Canyon
It’s hard to not take in the natural beauty of Los Angeles, California. L.A. draws both tourists and residents alike to its unique mix of the beach and desert climates. Across Los Angeles county’s sprawling 4,751 square miles, an ambitious traveler can start their day at the beach and reach the peak of Mount Baldy by lunch.
As a college student in L.A., I get to experience the best of both worlds — a tourist disguised as a local. Of course, whether you’re a tourist or simply new to town, finding your footing among the 3.8 million residents is much easier with familiarity of the city’s layout.
After the couple hour hike at Runyon Canyon, the city below feels much less unfamiliar. From the peak of the Santa Monica Mountain’s Runyon Canyon trail, the city of Los Angeles — both literally and metaphorically — is right at your fingertips.
Where does the hike begin?
To reach this sense of familiarity, make your way over to the hike’s main Fuller Avenue Trailhead located at 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90046, USA, just a few blocks north of Hollywood Boulevard.
Runyon has two additional trailheads. The Vista Entrance is also located on the south end of the park found at 2905 Runyon Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
For those wishing to hike down the mountain, enter through the Mulhollond Drive Trailhead (Upper Trailhead) located at 7317 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
How long is the hiking route?
The hike is designated as a moderate difficulty outing and calls for, at-most, 900 feet of climbing.
Several different paths offer journeys ranging from 0.8 to 3.5 total miles with ample opportunities to stop and enjoy your surroundings. On average, the trek takes around 1.5 hours depending on speed and ability.
Runyon Canyon can be catered to individual fitness levels:
The shortest route at 0.8 miles, enter from the Mulholland Drive Entrance and stick to the East Trail loop (orange) on the top of the maps. This route is the shortest, but certainly does not lack in views as the elevation remains consistent with other routes. Only 200 feet of elevation change is required for this path.
If you’re looking for a 1.6 mile trek, stick to the East Trail (orange trail on right side of map). This short, moderate-difficulty choice follows the trail to Cloud’s Rest and back while offering equally stunning views to the longer trips.
Connecting the Paved Fire Road (Grey trail in map’s middle section) with the East Trail slightly extends your hike to 1.8 miles while lowering difficulty for half of the journey. The Paved Fire Road is essentially a road with a slight incline, so you can begin or finish your journey with less difficulty depending on preference. Around 500 feet of elevation change is required on this route.
For those looking to challenge themselves, a full loop around the park extends the journey to 3.5 miles by coupling the West Trail, Paved Fire Road, and East Trail together. 800 feet of elevation change is present along this route.
What can I see during the Runyon Canyon Hike?
No matter which path you embark on, the views of Los Angeles below are sure to impress. L.A.’s natural beauty becomes abundantly clear you ascend the trail paths.
Looking out towards Downtown L.A., look to the west for views of Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean beyond, while the infamous Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory are easily spotted to the east. Visitors can look beyond the Hollywood Sign for views of L.A.’s mountain ranges.
Throughout any chosen path, Hollywood Mansions line the perimeter of the park and are easily observed from above. Additionally, the route is known for celebrity sightings which surprise hikers on the regular.
Whether you are a casual or seasoned hiker, Runyon Canyon is the essential spot to visit while in Los Angeles. It’s varying difficulty options and consistently breathtaking views make the Runyon Canyon hike an unforgettable experience perfect for family and friends.
