Griffith Park, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, is more than just an escape from city life; it’s a sprawling urban sanctuary bursting with hiking trails, panoramic vistas, and a hint of Hollywood magic. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a pleasant weekend walk, Los Angeles’ biggest park offers something for every adventurer. In this guide, we’ll uncover the best hikes in Griffith Park and share tips to make your next outdoor adventure unforgettable.
Why Hike in Griffith Park?
Few places in the world offer the blend of untamed wilderness, Hollywood history, and breathtaking cityscapes quite like Griffith Park. Spanning over 4,200 acres, this iconic park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States and features miles of well-maintained trails. Trails range from leisurely strolls under shady oaks to challenging climbs up rugged hillsides with wide-open views of Los Angeles.
With year-round sunshine, diverse wildlife, and iconic landmarks — including the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign — Griffith Park hiking is a must-do when visiting LA or looking for urban adventure close to home.
Top Hikes in Griffith Park
1. Griffith Observatory Trail
Trailhead: Vermont Canyon or Fern Dell Drive
Distance: About 2.5mi round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
No “best hikes in Griffith Park” list is complete without mentioning the path to the iconic Griffith Observatory. This trail rewards you with sweeping views of Downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and — of course — the Observatory itself. Start from the Fern Dell trailhead for a gentle climb under dense trees before opening up to sun-drenched slopes. The route is popular yet spacious, making it ideal for families, solo hikers, or anyone wanting to blend fitness and sightseeing.
2. Mount Hollywood Trail
Trailhead: Griffith Observatory Parking Lot
Distance: About 5mi round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Offering arguably the best panoramic view in the entire city, the Mount Hollywood Trail leads you gradually to the park’s highest accessible peak. From the summit, soak in a 360-degree sweep: the Los Angeles skyline, the San Gabriel Mountains, and iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign. On clear days, you’ll even glimpse the Pacific glimmering in the distance. This trail is well-marked and accommodates both brisk walkers and seasoned hikers.
3. Bronson Canyon Cave (The Batcave Trail)
Trailhead: Canyon Drive entrance
Distance: 0.6mi round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Pop culture fans will love this family-friendly trek to Bronson Canyon, better known as the Batcave from the classic Batman TV series. The short path is suitable for all ages and leads to a cool tunnel carved into the rock. Beyond its Hollywood ties, the canyon offers quiet beauty and backdrops perfect for photos.
4. Charlie Turner Trail (To Mount Hollywood Summit)
Trailhead: Griffith Observatory
Distance: About 3mi round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
This popular trail takes you from the Observatory parking lot, past the Berlin Forest, to the summit of Mount Hollywood. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike, thanks to its moderate incline and unbeatable city vistas. The well-maintained switchbacks offer dramatic scenery at every turn, while shaded benches provide rest stops along the way.
5. Ferndell Nature Trail
Trailhead: Ferndell Drive (West side of Griffith Park)
Distance: 0.5mi (can be combined with other trails)
Difficulty: Easy
Looking to escape the heat and city noise? Ferndell Nature Trail is a lush, shaded oasis featuring trickling streams, ferns, and wooden bridges. It’s less about elevation gain and more about ambiance, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or family outing. Combine this short path with other longer trails — like the Observatory Trail — for a varied day of hiking.
6. Hogback Trail
Trailhead: Mineral Wells Picnic Area
Distance: About 3.5mi round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Adventurers craving a challenge gravitate toward the Hogback Trail. The route quickly leaves the crowds behind as it climbs along rolling ridges, offering open vistas early on. You’re treated to sweeping mountain and city views, plus glimpses of LA’s rugged wild side. While not extremely technical, expect steep inclines that will push your heart rate.
7. Beacon Hill Loop
Trailhead: Merry-Go-Round Lot 1
Distance: 2.8mi loop
Difficulty: Moderate
The Beacon Hill Loop is a lesser-known gem offering a quieter trail experience and sweeping sights of Burbank, Glendale, and even Catalina Island on clear days. It’s a moderate hike with a few steep spots, and the summit benchmark at Beacon Hill is a satisfying reward.
Tips for Hiking in Griffith Park
- Start Early: Temperatures rise quickly, especially during summer. Early morning hikes give you cooler air and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring Water: Most trails lack water sources, so pack more than you think you’ll need.
- Wear Sun Protection: Much of Griffith Park is exposed. Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Protect wildlife and avoid getting lost by sticking to official routes.
- Respect the Wildlife: Griffith Park is home to deer, coyotes, snakes, and even mountain lions. Give animals space and don’t feed them.
- Parking: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as trailheads near the Observatory and Hollywood Sign fill up fast.
Famous Landmarks & Side Adventures
Hiking in Griffith Park is about more than just nature — it’s a chance to explore LA’s history and pop culture:
- Griffith Observatory: An architectural wonder, interactive museum, and the city’s best sunset perch.
- Hollywood Sign: Several trails provide up-close views of this world-famous landmark.
- The Old Zoo: Walk among the eerie remnants of LA’s original zoo, complete with old cages and graffiti art.
- Travel Town: Ideal for families, this outdoor museum showcases vintage trains and the history of rail in Los Angeles.
Best Times to Hike Griffith Park
Although LA weather is famously sunny, autumn and spring offer the most pleasant hiking climate. Winter delivers cool, crisp air and vibrant green hills. Summer afternoons can get hot, so start early or opt for shaded trails like Ferndell. Rain is rare, but can make trails slippery — always check conditions before you go.
Griffith Park Hiking: What to Bring
- Lightweight backpack
- Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
- Healthy snacks (fruit, granola bars)
- Map or GPS app (while major trails are marked, cell coverage varies)
- Light jacket or windbreaker (especially if hiking in the evening)
- Camera or smartphone for photos
Your Griffith Park Adventure Awaits
Griffith Park exemplifies Los Angeles’ spirit: wild, vibrant, and packed with hidden gems. Whether chasing panoramas atop Mount Hollywood, wandering shady groves in Ferndell, or standing in the shadow of the Hollywood Sign, every hike here is an experience to remember. The diverse trails ensure you’ll never have the same adventure twice.
Ready to lace up your hiking boots and explore the best hikes in Griffith Park? Share your favorite trail in the comments, plan your trip, and experience the outdoor magic that defines Los Angeles. Get moving — an iconic LA adventure is just a trail away!
