Griffith Park is one of the largest urban wilderness areas in the United States, offering a rugged escape from the concrete grid of Los Angeles without ever leaving the city limits. Spanning over 4,200 acres of chaparral-covered hills and shaded canyons, the park is a haven for hikers, trail runners, and anyone looking to gain a new perspective on the sprawling metropolis below. While the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory draw the crowds, the true magic of the park is found on its winding dirt paths and exposed ridgelines.
The terrain here is as varied as the city itself. You can trek through dense oak and walnut woodlands in the cool shade of Fern Dell, scramble up dusty switchbacks to panoramic peaks, or wander along gentle fire roads that offer sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains. Because the park is so vast, choosing the right trail can mean the difference between a serene nature walk and a strenuous, heart-pumping workout. The Mediterranean climate makes hiking possible nearly year-round, though early mornings and late afternoons are best for avoiding the intense summer heat.
For locals, Griffith Park is a backyard gym and a mental health reset button. For visitors, it is a chance to see Los Angeles from a completely different angle—one framed by native sagebrush, soaring hawks, and the distant shimmer of the Pacific Ocean. The trails range from family-friendly loops suitable for young children to steep, unshaded climbs that challenge even experienced hikers. Knowing what to expect before you set out is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Parking can be competitive on weekends, especially near popular trailheads like the Greek Theatre and Griffith Observatory. However, the park’s sheer size means that quieter entry points are almost always available if you are willing to walk a little further. Bringing plenty of water is non-negotiable, as most of the upper trails offer zero shade and temperatures can soar. Sturdy shoes with good traction are also recommended, as the decomposed granite and sandy soil can be slippery on steep descents.
Whether you are seeking the iconic photo opportunity of the Hollywood Sign, a peaceful birdwatching stroll through a fern-filled canyon, or a leg-burning ascent to one of the highest peaks in the Santa Monica range, Griffith Park delivers. This guide highlights the ten best hiking trails and viewpoints in the park, selected for their scenery, accessibility, and unique character. Each entry offers a distinct way to experience this urban wilderness.
Below, you will find a curated list of the park’s most rewarding routes, ranging from easy interpretive loops to challenging summit climbs. After the list, be sure to review the practical tips for navigating the park’s unique microclimates and trail conditions.
Griffith Park Observatory Trails Peak
| Address | 2715 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Excellent getaway with great pathways and mesmerising views....going inside was a further treatment.. great planetarium..Excellent setup of celestial bodies both on 1st and lower lobby levels.
The show is in a perfect setting and presentation is amazing.
Ample parking but has to be reserved..also members stand to benefit.
The tickets are well prized..views of Hollywood sign...was attractive.
Also the smoke over boyle Avenue could be seen.
Clean restrooms..Nice cafe and shopping too.
beautiful hiking trails. free parking everywhere. the view is breathtaking. there’s water fountain and clean bathrooms all over the park. horrible phone signal but they provide wifi access for free.
If you’re visiting the observatory, take the time to do this short trail as well.
It’s less than an hour round trip, but absolutely worth it.
You’ll get breathtaking views of the Griffith Observatory with the Los Angeles skyline in the background.
One of the best spots in Los Angeles for views of the city and the Hollywood sign. The building itself is beautiful, especially around sunset and at night when the city lights come on. Inside, the exhibits are interesting and the observatory has a classic old-Hollywood feel. Parking can be difficult and crowded, so be prepared to walk a bit, but the views make it completely worth it. A must-visit place in LA.
Great Hike to Mt. Hollywood!
We parked at the Greek Theatre and took the Mt. Hollywood Trail for a rewarding hike. The ascent was gradual, making it a pleasant and manageable climb. The trail is well-maintained, and the views at the top are fantastic—offering a great perspective of downtown LA and Griffith Observatory. There are multiple routes to reach this point, but the Mt. Hollywood Trail was a great choice. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a scenic and enjoyable hike!
Griffith Park Trails
| Address | 2715 N Vermont Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Used be good. More and more dog shit caused by dog mind humans.
I miss those days with free parking, now $10 a hour.
Small nice daily hiking, nothing special.
Its range of trails, with multiple peaks. You can plan based on the difficulty and time. Mt Hollwood Summit has great view of Griffith Observatory as well as Hollwwood sign. You can start from Merry go round parking lot, then head towards Bee Rock Trail and follow the signs. Adding pics of map and signs along the way.
Ok, this is a great hike. Start east to west going upwards for a harder hike. The climb at the top is a little tough so focus, no cell phone texting and please wear the right shoes. The view is spectacular. I did see people with, dogs and children. 9:00am is a good time to start. At that time you should find parking. No shade so wear your sun screen. Their are plenty of restaurants In close proximity after your hike. There is also a bathroom close to the parking area. Very safe hike.
Great spot to hike. Very scenic and variety of things to see. Fun to do hiking loop. Not too hard. Does get steep near the top. Bring some water and good shoes. Saw a rattlesnake on the trail, so keep eyes open 🐍 👀
super cool views of the city, and many trail options. enjoyed all the greenery!
Glendale Peak
| Address | Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
The hiking paths offered a great mix of difficulty levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes. I especially enjoyed how the trails passed through scenic viewpoints, shaded forest areas, and open spaces with fresh air and natural beauty. It was a perfect place for both exercise and relaxation in nature.
Another thing I appreciated was the safety and organization of the trails. Direction signs were placed at key points, and the paths were well maintained without obstacles or confusion. There were also resting spots along the way, which made the hike more comfortable and enjoyable.
The cleanliness of the area was also impressive. The surroundings were free from litter, and the natural environment was well preserved. It felt like a peaceful escape from city life, ideal for walking, jogging, or spending time outdoors with friends and family.
This prak is just an alright peak, it has some nice views, and is accessible from the Hogback Trail by a large sign pointing to a trail. It just has a benchmark that marks the peak.
I used Google to find this trail and it was kind of confusing. There’s no parking area so we parked on the street. It was a paved path that branches off into other paths. We took a dirt path so we could get some shade but the eventual decline was extremely steep so we turned around. Nice views
This has become my favorite hike in Griffith Park. Park at the “ponies”, cross Riverside Drive, and take the hard way up (trust me, the views are worth it!) Spectacular vistas, especially around sunset time.
Glendale Peak is a really fun hike with great vistas overlooking the city. Grange Stables will be the starting point for this rewarding climb. All abilities can take it on, with both shade and open areas. Good family-friendly and dog-friendly views are seen from the peak, while parking is free.
Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
| Address | Western Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Very steep trail and difficult at certain points. It took me a little over 20 mins to hike the trail at a fast pace. Beautiful trail. The payoff is the view so don't stop. It's totally worth it. Don't forget your water.
This is such a great adventure. It's free and parking is free as well. Look up early in the morning to go take a hike. You also get very nice views up there. It's nice to see a lizard and try to catch a lizard as well. It's nice to be out of the city and have a big view of the city itself. The trail is nice and it is taken care of
I recently had a great hike in Griffith Park, starting from one of the Observatory Trailheads, and it’s a perfect urban escape.
The signage is clear, offering several short, accessible options like the West Observatory Trail (0.7 mi) or the Loop Trail (0.2 mi), making it ideal for a quick workout or a relaxed family outing. The trails themselves are mostly wide, dirt fire roads, which were well-maintained and easy to navigate.
The best part, of course, is the views. Even on an overcast or slightly hazy day (like when I was there), the vistas are stunning. As you hike up the wide, dusty path, you get that iconic perspective of the Griffith Observatory dome rising over the green hills behind you. Then, when you look out over the city, you are treated to sweeping, classic views of the Hollywood Hills and the Los Angeles skyline in the distance.
Quick Tips:
1. Parking: Parking near the Observatory can be a challenge, so consider starting your hike from a lower access point like Fern Dell Drive (which is listed as only 0.1 mi away from this junction) and walking up.
2. Sun: The trail pictured is quite exposed, so definitely bring water and sun protection on clear days, even if it feels cool at the start.
3. Footwear: Standard athletic shoes are generally fine for these wide paths.
This is a quintessential L.A. hike that's perfect for both locals and visitors. It offers a great payoff in views for a minimal time commitment and effort!
Went here on a Saturday morning. Parking can be hard to find, so you gotta drive around for a bit.
When I come to L.A. I make it a point to hike up this trail in the morning. It's a short, strenuous hike (depending on your lifestyle), but absolutely worth the views. The hike is steep the majority of the way, especially the first 2/3 of the way, but you'll get majestic views of L.A. (and the ocean on a non-smoggy/foggy day). It ends at Griffith Observatory. On the way down you'll enjoy the 180⁰ views of the city. Its stunning!
Overall, and absolute must when in L.A. You start off at the Ferndell Nature Trail to listen to the serene sounds of the natural creek and walk through the natural landscape that had been utilized by the Tongvas. Take it slow if you're not a hiker. It's about a 30 minute hike up, but maybe an hour or so if you're new to hiking.
Our daily favorite hiking area.
Cannot park at the park. After sunset, do parking across the Los Feliz street, street parking.
Ferndell Nature Trail
| Address | Fern Dell Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 666-5046 |
Come early before it gets too hot! There are two trails, east and west. I went up the east side and down the west side. If you’re coming with kids, take the west side as it is less steep. If coming alone or with friends and you want a challenge, take the east side. The views are beyond gorgeous. Remember to apply sunscreen and bring a water bottle. Parking is plentiful, especially on a weekday in the morning.
One of our favorite walking spots in Griffith Park, especially on hot days. Most of the Ferndell Nature Trail is shaded by trees, so it stays much cooler and more comfortable. If you’re deciding between this trail and the trail toward Griffith Observatory, I definitely recommend Ferndell on a hot day since the Observatory route has very little shade.
Fishing is not allowed here, but depending on the season, you can see tons of crawfish in the stream. My kids have loved coming here since they were little, so this place has a lot of great memories for us.
There’s also a playground once you come out of the trail, which makes it a great spot for families with kids.
Beautiful, peaceful, shaded, and a great little escape from the LA heat. Highly recommended!
Beautiful views of Los Angeles with so many different trails to take. If doing a long hike in the summer bring a hat and plenty of water. There is pretty much 0 shade.
I always start my mornings on this trail whenever I’m in town if the weather allows. Hike all the way to Griffith trail peak and often beyond. It's one of the best places to start the day if you love to hike or run.
Along the way, you may encounter some local wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and, of course, plenty of squirrels. Don’t be surprised if your shoes and pants get a little dusty if you decide to run the trail.
Depending on your pace, you can complete the round trip in about one to two hours. There's a park where you'll often see families and friends enjoying picnics, relaxing, or spending time outdoors at the beginning of the trail.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning hike, a trail run, or simply a chance to enjoy nature, I highly recommend this trail.
Epic views of Los Angeles and a beautiful view while exercising! So many trail options and ample parking. A great way to escape the madness of the city and just appreciate nature, a good audio book or podcast. We did about 5mi round trip and got to see the Hollywood sign up close. I recommend bringing sunscreen and water. There’s picnic tables around the park to have lunch or to just chill and sit on a tree stump. Highly recommend this place if you’re in need of connecting with nature and self.
Charlie Turner Trailhead
| Address | 2840 W Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Pretty - but really foggy lately with the marine layer. Tried to go before 10am for free parking but it was still too early that the fog covered most of the view form the top. Still beautiful and good workout.
This trailhead starts right at the Griffith Observatory parking lot, which can get crowded, and the trail is basically a fire road that climbs up to Mt Hollywood. Just don't park here at the observatory, save some money and park down at Fern Grotto and hike up to here.
Great experience doing a mini hike with family. I loved the sweeping views of LA, the Hollywood sign (though far) and the LA style greenery. Definitely worth a visit. The trails are dusty but not too bad. Parking is free at the bottom, but you’ll need to hike up which isn’t too far but goes uphill. Parking near the trail is at the observatory which costs $15/hour right now. Highway robbery!
Easy access, great views and great trail connections!
I did a quick run up the hill for exercise, tho too crowded for all intents and purposes on a Sunday.
It was only when looking back from the Griffith Observatory that I realized the tourism aspect of the climb, as museum goers contemplated it as the same trail that not only leads up Mount Hollywood, it also leads to the Mount Lee trail, near the Hollywood Sign!
It's so beautiful out here. Nature is amazingly refreshing. Best views of the city overlooking Griffith Observatory... just go for a walk...enjoy the fresh air...pick any trail ... take on hiking...100% benefit mind, body and soul🙂👍
Captain's Roost
| Address | 2715 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This is a great (and easy) hike! We started at the top of Griffith Park (at the Observatory) and followed the trails from the parking lot. We also timed it for sunset so it wasn't too hot and made for great pictures. The trail through the palm trees was super cool and I 100% recommend this hike!
I hiked up Firebreak trail to Griffith Observatory, then followed the signs to Mt. Hollywood. I wasn’t able to reach my final destination in time but I made it to Captain’s Roost. I had to work in the afternoon.
The hike up from the street is steep but the trails themselves are very wide and soft underfoot. Perfect for families or groups of friends. I took a .1 mile shortcut to Captain’s Roost that started behind the sign. It looked a bit challenging and I had to scramble a tiny at the beginning—but that’s what made it fun for me!
The view is phenomenal and if you enjoy being outside, this hike is a must. I would recommend going early because there is no shade. Wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring water with electrolytes. I hope to come back to Griffith Park when I have more time to explore the trail system.
There were bathrooms at the street level trailheads as well as outside the observatory on the edge of the parking lot. There was also a water bottle filling station by the bathrooms outside.
I am visiting from Louisiana. This was my 2nd trip to find the Hollywood Sign, mission accomplished. We paid to park on the West Observatory Rd. Then hiked to Captain’s Roost was beautiful. On this path you can view the ocean, Los Angeles city line, Griffith Observatory, and movie star watch. The best time to visit is sunset. My dog and pals had a great time!
Nice stopping point for a break while hiking up to Mt. Hollywood summit. Less than an hour from the observatory parking lot but over an hour and moderate hike from the bottom. It’s easy terrain just all uphill that’s why moderate.
What a fantastic (and simple) walk! We followed the paths from the parking lot at the Observatory, which is the highest point in Griffith Park. In order to avoid the heat and take beautiful photos, we also scheduled it for sunset. I heartily suggest this walk, and the route through the palm palms was really interesting!
Glendale Peak Trail Head
| Address | 2715 N Vermont Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Awesome place to hike with awesome views of the city.
This is a great trail not far from DTLA. its got a great view from the top and not difficult at all. Amazing views of sunrise and sunset as well as the DTLA skyline. Only downside is that if you go at popular times (e.g. weekends and holidays) it is PACKED. Also used as a training ground for cross country runners and running clubs because of the size/width of the trails. Its a nice 4 mile loop takes about 2 hours if you go slow and take pics.
A great park for walking and easy hiking! Clean paths, scenic views, and plenty of greenery. Perfect for a weekend getaway. I'll definitely be back!
An easy trail with good scenic views along the way. Took us 2.5 hr to complete the loop, and get to see the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, and DTLA
I love the views from Glendale Peak. It's a pretty easy hike from the west side of Griffith Park.
The Brush Canyon Trail
| Address | Canyon Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 202-2700 |
I really loved this trail, it is steep.
There is a ranch there that offers horse rides, there is shade in multiple places.
I had so much fun the views were beautiful and breathtaking at every stop.
The sign itself is cool to hike up to and there's another trail going towards other things it is definitely worth the hike.
It’s a decent hike to the Hollywood Sign, taking about 2–3 hours and considered easy to moderate difficulty. Near the end, you can take a short detour to view the sign from both the front and the back. There is plenty of parking available at the start of the trail.
Visited Brush Canyon Trail on January 13, 2026, and started the hike around 4 PM.
The hike took about 2 hours and 20 minutes round trip, and I walked all the way to the area just below the Hollywood Sign. Parts of the trail were a bit strenuous, but the effort was absolutely worth it.
I was lucky to catch a beautiful sunset, and the entire atmosphere of the hills changed as evening set in. The views were incredible.
On the way back, I even saw a Coyote howling in the distance. It was a little scary at first, but it kept its distance and nothing happened.
The trail wasn’t too crowded during my hike, which made the experience even better. I would definitely do this hike again the next time I visit Los Angeles.
Had to do the infamous Hollywood Sign hike while in LA... BabbBbbbbbby let Me tell You this ain't no walk in the park Okayyy! Lol However, it was so fun even though it was a challenge! A little over 6 Miles incline is gradual but You definitely feel it! On the way down got a little bit of trail & a WONDERFUL NICE Local Man helped Me get back on track. Every single encounter I had with a Local in LA & surrounding areas was so refreshing EVERYONE was literally so NICE & willing to help! AHHhHhhh I get it now! The allure of Hollywood is REAL! LOVE!
3hr hike well worth it once you get to the top of the Hollywood sign/behind it. I’d suggest at least 16oz per hr and a snack, I messed up by going empty stomach 😂
Amir's Garden
| Address | Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | — |
Doing after school hikes and adventures gives the opportunity to introduce to the kids epic trails and places in Griffith Park! The trail to Amir’s does need repair but it didn’t deter the kids or myself to hike up. For the kids the reward was so great. So many different areas to explore in the immediate area. There is a little construction happening, so I’m excited to go back and see it again.
First time trying this trail. It was tougher than I anticipated, but rewarding at the end. Nice view all the way to the top. Nice picnic area to eat our lunch. Beautiful flowers, succulents, and plants in the garden. Dogs allowed on leash, water fountain at the top. Saw coyotes so be aware if you have small dogs. Parking is free.
I didn’t realize that parking at the Mineral Wells Picnic Area was probably the better way to come from, but we parked at the golf course which does have a trail that will take you to Amir’s Garden it’s just longer. Plus there was a shortcut staircase we could’ve taken but the weeds were so overgrown we missed it. If you come from the golf course, on the trail is a fallen tree with caution tape, across from that are the hidden stairs. If you aren’t wearing proper hiking shoes, just take the long way which is fairly easy. The garden is lovely, it’s amazing the difference one person can make. It was very inspiring.
Steep hills, thick foliage, secluded benches nice mix to make you forget city life. Nice assisted hike with steps make it easier but still challenging to climb the top. Forgot my sunscreen on a very hot sunny day but the canopy so lush hardly any sun gets through. Really such a nice calming walk, whole family loved it. Some walkways were eroded from past rainfall so becareful. Benches at some key points let's you enjoy some nice views. Recommend visiting it, i will be back for more.
Here is a perfect place for relaxing and enjoy the view. Don’t follow the google map. The best way is park in the Griffith Park camp road and follow the paths. Should be a mile hiking and you can take your food and sit there and enjoying the food and view.
Essential Tips for Hiking Griffith Park
Before you lace up your boots and hit the trail, it helps to understand a few local realities about Griffith Park. Unlike a manicured state park, this is rugged, semi-wild terrain where conditions can change quickly with the weather and the time of day. These tips will help you stay safe, avoid parking headaches, and get the most out of your hike.
First, always carry more water than you think you need. There are very few working water fountains once you leave the main tourist areas, and the dry, often windy conditions at higher elevations accelerate dehydration. Second, start early or go late. The trails are almost entirely unshaded, and the reflected heat from the bare earth can make midday summer hikes dangerous. Third, watch your footing on descents. The loose gravel and sand that covers many Griffith Park trails can act like ball bearings under your shoes, so trekking poles or a slow, deliberate pace are wise. Fourth, be aware of wildlife. Rattlesnakes are common in the warmer months, especially near brushy areas, so stay on the designated path and keep your hands and feet visible. Finally, check parking signs carefully. Some lots close at sunset, and street parking near popular trailheads often requires a permit or has strict time limits.
