Love coming here with my lover and enjoying the epic views California has to offer it's a pretty…read moreintense hike your walking up a mountain that goes on for miles definitely worth it

I gave this trail three stars because once you reach the top, the panoramic view of the Pacific…read moreOcean is absolutely gorgeous. The view alone makes the climb worth it. But I have some complaints. First, there is very little shade along the way. There are relatively few trees, and many of the remaining trees look like burned sticks from the fires that have passed through the area. If you're hiking this during the summer, prepare to feel like you're being slowly roasted by the sun. I'd probably recommend doing this hike during the cooler months. And this trail is basically one long uphill conversation with gravity. There isn't much of a break from the incline, so you should be in reasonably good shape. Bring plenty of water and apply sunblock. Seriously. Your future self will thank you. Another interesting part of the hike is getting a glimpse of some of the enormous houses belonging to the wealthy. These properties are absolutely gigantic--sometimes looking more like small resorts than houses. And I couldn't help thinking about the contrast: millions of people in Los Angeles are living in relatively small apartments, often with barely enough space for their belongings, while these enormous homes sit on hillsides with rooms that probably aren't used for months at a time. The funny part is that you rarely see anyone actually living in these places. Apparently, even billionaires need a really big house to be away from home. Still, one of my favorite things about hiking is the people. Most hikers are nature lovers, and they're usually friendly and easy to talk to. There's something nice about being surrounded by people who voluntarily decided to walk uphill through the wilderness instead of sitting on a couch. Beautiful ocean views, friendly hikers, lots of uphill, almost no shade, and a fascinating glimpse into the extreme wealth of Pacific Palisades. Bring water--and perhaps a little class consciousness.

This Pacific Palisades neighborhood has a good amount of stairs, hills, scenic overlooks, and…read morepretty houses, so it makes for a nice walk/urban hike. To get there, navigate to 17574 Pacific Coast Highway and park on the street or in one of the metered lots on the beach side. Walk over the highway overpass to the first set of stairs. For a full 1.5-hour loop through the neighborhood, you can follow these instructions: 1. Turn left on Posetano 2. Turn left on Revello and go down the stairs after the house at 17712 3. Turn right on Breve Way until Porto Marina Way 4. Take the stairs up at 17737 Porto Marina Way 5. Turn left at the top of Castellammare and walk up the hill 6. Keep right onto Vicino Way (another uphill) 7. Keep walking right onto Tramonto Dr 8. Keep walking onto Tramonto Dr until you reach Revello Dr and keep right 9. Follow Revello down until you reach a short bridge 10. A bit after the bridge, there is a staircase going down on the left 11. Turn right onto Posetano and keep going down as it turns into Stretto Way 12. Turn right onto Castellammare and keep going (it will turn into a dirt path and then it'll turn into a paved street again) 13. Voila! You are back at the first staircase where you started

These stairs will take you through some of the most beautiful ocean scenery not to mention walking…read morepast some of the most spectacular mansions L.A. has to offer. The stairs on the lower end start just past Gladstones restaurant and after the pedestrian overpass. You will feel a bit of nostalgia as these stairs take you past silent screen star Thelma Todd's old restaurant and right past her opulent mansion of yesteryear. These different sets of stairs is really a wonderful way to spend a day with the incredibly beautiful views you will have of the ocean from the top of the hills and of the stairs. It is a little over 3+ miles with about 518 steps. Some of the staircases seem pretty steep and like I said the view at the top is well worth getting to! This pathway will also take you through a lot of natural beauty as there are many types of trees and shrubs that are well manicured and incredibly picturesque around the staircases. It was so peaceful and serene at this location of hidden stairs when I went with my husband and daughter that I felt like I was kind of at some sort of self realization retreat. This place definitely gets five stars from me because after walking these stairs and witnessing the glamour and beauty of this area I just felt so inspired. I highly recommend checking out these stairs because the whole experience was just beautiful!

The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (also known as the Culver City Steps) is a great spot to check…read moreout for new and experienced hikers alike. I personally go for a hike every Sunday because it helps me decompress, reflect on the week that I've had, and mentally prepare myself for the week coming up/visualize future plans. Right off the bat, I'd strongly recommend planning in advance for the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook since the parking closer to the base of the trail is street parking and first come first serve. While the street parking is mostly free (there are some meters), I can't really recommend a "best" time to get there as I've gone at multiple times of the morning, afternoon, and evening, and it's generally tough to get a spot that isn't a bit of a walk away. Additionally, there is metered parking at the top of the trail, but the caveat is that you won't be able to advance the steps on your first trek if you start from the top. The steps are arguably the most attractive part of the trail since it offers a unique fitness challenge that manages to feel familiar for stairmaster users while also feeling different because of the outdoor ambiance. It also feels like something out of a training scene from a Shaw Brothers film for my fellow movie nerds. If your'e reasonably in shape, the steps likely won't be too big of an issue, but if you're fairly new to fitness/hiking, you will likely have to take breaks as you advance up the steps. That said, most people here are very supportive of one another, so if you are struggling to make it up, someone will no doubt cheer you on. Once you advance to the top of the steps, you'll have an opportunity to catch your breath, take in the beautiful skyline view of LA, and take a selfie. This is also a great opportunity to chat with fellow hikers and possibly make a new friend or two along the way. I'd suggest advancing past this rest spot and make your way to the back of the trail as it provides you with two cool options. Option 1: You can make a right while at the parking lot and do laps going up and down the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook without worrying about the steps. It is significantly less grueling than the steps, offers some additional great views of LA, and even has a few benches where one can chill and eat a snack. Option 2 (Strongly Recommend): You can make a left, walk through the parking lot, and explore a nice casual hike from the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook to the nearby Kenneth Hahn Park. I do this every time I visit the trail because it feels like a more rewarding hike that also offers some really nice views of the local area. Furthermore, this path is another way to get to Kenneth Hahn without worrying about the $10.00 entry fee should you try to enter the park that way. I've been hiking since 2020, and I can confidently say that this is one of my favorite trails. I've hiked here countless times alone, and I've also gone with less experienced friends who've also had a blast. The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is moderately challenging, offers some great views, is peaceful, and the food trucks at the base of the steps have a wealth of smoothies, refreshers, etc. to choose from for your pre or post hike pleasure.

we came at 2pm 83 degrees on weather app but the breeze was cool. There's trails on both sides for…read morealternative climbs. I did feel like puking up the 2nd "lap". Would do it again. Sad to see how much smog there is. We almost made out the Hollywood sign. Could see where Cedars Sinai and LA skyline were though!

LMU Hiking trail is a great place to get a level dirt trail hike in any day of the week. It's…read moremostly well kept and most people stick to the rules while on it. It's the people that don't follow the rules that had me knock a star off this review. The Pros: When the upper and lower trails are open, you can choose to do a tree shaded walk/run or a mostly sunny one on the upper. The paths are wide, and are mostly dirt surface. From the upper trail you can also take in some nice views of LAs west side. You can even ride your bike here. I believe the entire loop is just under 5 miles. Maybe more like 4 miles and some change. The Cons: People who don't think the rules apply to them. Especially the dog owners. I AM A DOG OWNER! I LEASH AND CLEAN UP AFTER MY DOG because it's what the posted rules ask me to do. Also the lower trail is closed for habitat rehabilitation. But alas this doesn't stop exceptional people that go through the fence. Not sure what the penalty or fine is but I would hope it's enough of a sting to discourage this behavior. Overall: It's a wonderful place to get your steps in and tune out. Afternoon or early mornings are great for spotting wild life like rabbits, cranes and or coyotes. Be safe and see you on the trail. Please bring your dog on a leash too!

Nice open space to get some good walking in. Dirt path…read more Be warned, no bathrooms or water nearby.

Temescal Canyon has a wonderful loop that is very hilly and satisfying. You have a combination of…read moretree areas that feel like you're out of the LA area, a waterfall and creek, up to many amazing vista points of the coastline and the back down. The park it is also a great place to just hang out on grassy areas amongst trees to find peace. There is ample parking on the street and in the park itself. You also have access to pretty good bathrooms for a park.

Star rating is around 4.0 to 4.25 Parking lot is ample but…read morepricey - 12$. Automated kiosks are available. One lot in front one in the middle and extra parking in rear. As of aug 1 2026, the lower trail temescal is closed must use upper trail temescal Canyon ridge. Unfortunately, the lower is close and fenced off, but did see people try to use the rear side to sneak.in..please people respect the park..its closed because humans have wrecked the area and needs time to repair itself The challenge level for hikes or walks or runs is medium to high. Some areas are difficult, loose rock and gravel plus steep up and down hills. The views are spectacular, the trails are challenging... no ebikes... missing items would be non working water fountains and the closure of the main trail, for the waterfall area. Plus, open spaces for picnics are available- foropen sports - a small creek - and various options in trails. As all trails will meet up at the recreation area - links up to the rojas canyon trail - the temescal ridge - skull rock ridge - viewpoint ridge

Super cool hike!…read more Not overly strenuous, with lots of stair climbing down into the canyons. Most of the trail is flat and relatively well-maintained. Parking on the street in the adjacent affluent area. Follow the road to the unpaved mountain street that winds along the hidden canyons, which are generally very verdant and robust. The road is fairly active, with hikers, locals, bikes, and cars. There's a camp if you keep going down the road, so peak seasons can feature heavier traffic, within relative standards. The area is inaccessible during the night, at least from a parking perspective. The actual trail itself, found a short walk down the service road, is easy to miss, but hard to forget. An assuming ledge with a staircase that drops down the steep canyon side, leading down to the shaded paths beneath the tree canopy. The ranch itself has a storied history, and the reclaimed buildings are a fascinating discovery and a fun point of interest before looping back up out of the canyons. Be aware of local wildlife.

We took a little walk on the wild side to Murphy Ranch. This areas has a lot of history as was…read moresuspected to be a hide out for those individuals who sympathize with Nazis. The ranch was later raided after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Afterwards became a place for artists and then the buildings were deserted and left to rot away. Give that these buildings draw people who like to party and graffiti, some of the structures have been destroyed. As you can see from the pictures there are still some structures that draw people in. Beyond these buildings there are some gorgeous views on the four mile loop. The loop consist of views of the mountains and a stream that is sometimes dry. Note the trail has a lot of steps: and they are short and narrow. The area not only draws hikers but a lot of mountain bikers. Hikers be careful on the trails as many bikers were not using bells. Lastly, there is not parking at the trailhead. You have to walk in about a half mile to trailhead. Available parking is limited as most areas say do not park.

One of my favorite trails in the Santa Monica mountains and the end of the trail is considered one…read moreof the highest points within the Santa Monica mountains at about 1,920 feet. There are clean restrooms at the end of the trail. I also noticed some picnic tables near that area too. In the event you're a hiker that needs to fuel up with snacks in your backpack like me, the picnic tables at the end of the trail make a nice spot to rest in the shade before heading back. This trail is shared with bikers, runners, and walkers alike. Even though it is wide enough to accommodate everyone, it seems no one group tries to hog up rhe wide space like some other trails in the area do.

I've been at this hiking spot twice now and each time I regret not coming here more often. Let me…read moretell you, the views of this place does not disappoint at all!! Not to mention what a great workout you can get out of it, even if your just walking. The hills are no joke! Wear proper hiking shoes for sure! There is a small parking spot at the beginning of the trail but it gets full fast anytime of the day. So I just found street parking. Even though it has not been raining lately, the mountains were super green and lush! Beautiful 360 views everywhere! Not shaded so take sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat as needed! Enjoy!

The views on this trail were quite spectacular. Parker Mesa Overlook actually starts around where…read moreLos Liones "ends." It's pretty steadily uphill but not too steep. Not much shade. It's pretty quiet in comparison with other local Los Angeles trails. Luckily I went on a clear day and you could see for miles and miles! My friend and I had parked on the street near the beginning of the trail, but a local pointed out that there is no parking on the weekends. She said that someone comes to check every two hours but luckily no ticket that day. Just something to look out for.

Parker mesa by far has to be one of the few hiking trails that blow me away once I reach the top…read more This is a long hike starting off with the little trail at the beginning of it, very narrow and a one person incline way. After turns into this big pathway trail that cars are able to drive on but very steep at some points. This is a long hike with a bit of a challenge. Once you're up there it's all worth it.

Loved this trail! Have been to Temescal many times over the years and recently found out about this…read moretrail. It's quieter than the others and you don't get the same beach view, but it's nice if you want a change of pace. The trail can get a bit narrow, however it's doable if you have a sturdy pit of shoes. Really pretty cacti on the trail, which is a little different from other hikes in the area.

Love this trail as it's rarely busy and doggie friendly - what more can you ask? Ok -- it's got…read moreviews too -- of our beautiful ocean! Here's a tip -- it's a little over 4 miles round trip if you start in Temescal Canyon -- but we take two cars and leave one where the trail ends (corner of Brooktree and Sunset). We drive one car back to the trail and start our hike so that way when we finish we don't have to do that mile walk down Sunset Blvd or go back up the hill the way we came to Temescal as the 2nd car is waiting for us on Brooktree. Of course if you've got 3-4 hours and lots of energy -- do the round trip! But our way you don't have to see the same things twice.

This is my favorite trail of all time. However, the bikers scare and frustrate me. The middle…read moretrail is very narrow and very steep, and when a bike comes barreling down it's so dangerous and scary. It really bothers me that there are so many bikers here, and they expect us to rush off to the side and let them go by. It says biking is ok at 5mph but they go much much faster than that. It's the only hike I've ever been on where bikers are like this.

I love the beginning of this trail especially during the spring as there are plenty of Lupine's at…read morethe beginning of the trail. This trail has pretty good incline at the beginning if you are trying to get your sweat on. I would say this is a moderate trail that will connect you in a bout 2 miles to the main fire road. Due to the fires I was informed by a gentleman that they wouldn't be opening the main fire road till July. Parking: Plenty of Street parking. Trail Views: Beautiful views of San Fernando Valley once you get to the top. I love the trails in Los Angeles! If you are running or hiking them it gives you a sense of peace.