This park offers a plethora of hiking trails, picnic tables in an oak grove, and a large parking lot. There is a $5 parking fee requested; but it seems like most folks, including me, park on the street for free and hike up to the trailhead. This will add about a mile to your workout (round-trip), but that's good, right? I completed the loop trail this time (trail map here https://trails.lacounty.gov/Trail/1833/wilson-canyon-loop-trail ) and really enjoyed it. There is a pretty significant altitude gain, so be prepared. The trail had definitely been affected by recent rains, with a lot of ruts in the road, but nothing impassable. You'll start out in chaparral, then go up through an oak/sycamore grove near an intermittent stream, and than descend on the north side back to the trailhead. There's also a year-round stream to the north of the hiking area; not sure if it's technically part of the park but it's worth seeking out. Hiking boots with good tread, hiking poles, and water are recommended. Hat, sunscreen and shades on sunny days. And don't forget snacks and a charged phone. Highly recommended. read more

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Your mindset is what separates you from the rest. Let's begin this new trail adventure. WILSON CANYON PARK is a 2.8-mile loop trail at Sylmar, California. This trail is quite popular for horseback riding, hiking, and birding. It has an elevation gain of 705 ft.; trails were well maintained, however, there were sections of the Saddle Ranch trailhead that you go through a very narrow trench-just past the water dam structure- which doesn't look like a trail but it is part of the trailhead. You start with a very sandy trail and progresses to a rocky and then smoothed out as you ever to higher elevation. This trail has rich in flora and fauna, wild animals and insects. I saw a juvenile snake (not sure if it's a Sierra Garter snake) as I descend back. YIKES! I decided to hit the Pig Ranch trail as well. Both trails deemed Easy for experienced hikers. Fellow hikers were cordial and respectful. I even saw a male hiker, wearing plaid shirt and jeans, brought his 4 lil boys on the trail. Great family bonding. Anyways, this was a nice hike with great scenery even on a slightly foggy day. Parking has a $5 honor system as you drive inside the park. Overall, WCT is a good quick hike and I recommend it. read more

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Quick, semi intense, great incline with an amazing view of the valley! Several different trail options which is awesome. One of my favorite go to hikes to get a quick 1hr burn in and take in some amazing views of the entire valley. On a crisp clear day you can see all the way over to warner center. PARKING: Parking is free on the street, along the entrance to the fire paved road. At the bottom of Olive View Hospital. This is where you start and hike up the fire paved road which is a steady and great incline! If you want to drive up the paved road, you pay $5 at the bottom using the honor system and you start the hike from the top of the paved road. Stay to the right. HIKE: You can walk the paved road, and stop at the top of it if you would like just an easy incline, or you can ramp it up, veer to the right at the top of the paved road and on your left you'll see the dirt entrance to start the hike up. About an hour-hour and 15mins from the bottom of the fire road to the top and down. Gorgeous views the whole way, and at the top is a flat overlook with 2 benches. Easy-Moderate not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Not so difficult you cant strap a baby to your back or chest and handle business! Good for dogs on the leash, but be careful in the summer there are rattlesnakes (I've encountered a few) I love this hike and it really let's you take in our beautiful San Fernando Valley! read more

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I can't believe I just discovered this beautiful-amazing-treasure spot in Sylmar, just 7 min. away from my house. Wilson Canyon Park is such a beautiful hiking spot. We parked on Olive View Drive...yes! It's right next to "Olive View Hospital". Even though there is parking spots on the top of the road...I really recommend for you to park in the street, that way you have a little "pre-workout walk" before you get to the actual hike & dirt road. I have taken like 3 different trails, one of them on the right side, is a straight road & you are just going up hill...it's so beautiful, so green, lots of flowers (I took a lot of pics, so you get an idea)... this road is a "Stairway to Heaven" when you get to the top...you will have a beautiful view of The Valley & there are 2 benches to rest. It's perfect. On my way back somewhere in between I took a left & I kept hiking through this little narrow trail...in between the mountains, the dirt looks like beach sand...I kept going down...& really feels like you are in the woods...you can hear water running...it gets a little dark, because there are so many trees & you literally get no phone service...you can only hear the sounds of the birds...beautiful but kinda scary at the same time... I really recommend for you to do this trail ONLY if you are with someone else...I've been there twice & it's always LONELY...I kinda felt like a strange vibe in a certain spot there...& my sister did too...so we are planing on making a "Treasure Box" or like paint some rocks & put them under a tree for good vibes. This place has become my favorite hiking place...but like I mentioned, unlike other hiking places this one is lonely...I've been there in the morning and afternoon...but I hardly ever see anyone on the trails. There are more people at the beginning of the trails, like in the actual road...since there is a nice view there too. I've seen people in their horses, which I find so beautiful. There is also a picnic area...& I read that there is an abandoned miniature Golf Course...but I haven't seen that one yet...I'll find it! & I also want to discover more trails! I recommend this hike a lot! It's Beautiful, relaxing...it's a little trip to the woods...don't forget to bring lots of water & company :) enjoy! From: City of Sylmar, with Love! read more

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We found the waterfall. Difficult to get to but worth it. There was a lot of brush & rocks we had to cross

There are two different ways to start this trail. You can park your car along sketchy Olive View Dr., just east of the hospital, and then walk up a long paved road 0.4 miles until you reach the base of the mountain where there will be a green gate marking the start of the trail. The other starting point is through the official trailhead entrance. In order to avoid the $5 parking fee, you can park in the hospital parking lot and then walk up the road adjacent to the east side of the hospital. If you go this way then be sure to check out the semi-interesting abandoned mini golf course. The trail takes you 2 miles up the south side of the San Gabriel mountains. It's a fairly steady incline the first half of the way. The last half involves hiking up a steep and semi-slippery narrow path. It would be okay if there were a big payoff at the end, like a plaque or bench, but in the end all you're rewarded with is a crummy ole dead tree and some spiky plants poking your legs. You also get a great panoramic view of the San Fernando Valley topped with a nice brown layer of smog. It may not be on any top 10 lists of best hikes, but it will definitely give your thighs and calves a good work-out. On your way back down you can go down an opposite entrance from which you came to change it up a bit. I lost 2 pounds worth of water weight because I went on a really hot day so be sure to pack enough H2O. read more

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Started near Olive View Hospital and hiked all the way to the top to Los Pinetos. The hike starts a bit strenuous but becomes easier after you pass the electrical towers. Went on a really windy day and was not prepared to turn into a popsicle but this hike was totally worth it! The view was breathtaking and pictures can't do it justice. Make sure to bring snacks and water, wear proper foot wear, and bring extra clothes/accessories just in case it gets cold. There were signs warning us of snakes, and other hikers warned us of coyotes and mountain lions (so maybe bring a friend?). Also, try to go early since the sun sets around 4pm nowadays. read more

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Not a bad trail especially when considering how close it is to the valley. Wilson Canyon Park is literally right next to Olive View Hospital. There is street parking or lot parking which cost $5 and is enforced through the honor system. I've been to this park twice and the first time we parked inside which was a bit confusing because it isn't clear where to exactly park but you do save yourself the trouble of hiking up the paved road. Then, the second time we went we parked on the street. At first we only found one trail but it did seem to venture off into others. The trails aren't too shaded so I wouldn't recommend going on a hot day, the trails have nice views if you manage to get high enough, and it also seems like the trails are used to walk horses because there was quite a bit of poop on it. Overall Not a bad little hike if you're looking to stay close to home. I'll definitely be back to explore a little more, lets hope I find something a bit more appealing to it. read more

Wilson Canyon Park - Hiking Near Me - Sylmar, California

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It feels funny reviewing hiking trails because at the end of the day, it is nature and there isn't much that can be done even if I were to complain about something (unless it's something that deems to be a danger to people). Anyway, it's definitely a nice walk with some challenging steep hills. It's a nice workout for people to go on their own, with their dogs, family, friends, etc. It was also nice seeing hoof marks on the ground from horses that may have been walking in the area. The beauty of Sylmar! read more

This hike provided a good work out for my calves, thighs and glutes. The first half of the climb was relatively easy... as you continue your journey, the incline slowly increases and after a certain point it might was well be completely vertical. I was happy that I brought a large water bottle. Keep in mind that there is no shade, so lots of sunscreen and a hat are needed, especially in this heat. Starting early in the am is a great choice. We saw two deer very early on... and I am pretty sure I saw a snake, however my partner was unable to locate it... he convinced me that possibly it was just a large lizard :-/ either way i quickly got over it and no other critters, or creatures made there presence obvious after that. One of the downfalls, is that during the steepest parts the ground is not compacted... its really sandy making it more challenging.. Especially on the way down. However, once you get to a certain point, you know that you can not turn around with out making it to the top of the mountain... so despite the anticipated struggle of the journey back... you venture on. It is always satisfying to reach the top... Give your partner a high-five, catch your breathe and turn around. Sadly, falling on my butt is not unusually for me when hiking... this downward trail really gave me a difficult time... I literally fell on my bottom at least 10 times... I am sure it was entertaining to watch... don't let this intimidate you, once you are ready to head back just tread careful All and all the views were great. It was fun to look down on the entire valley. Not sure if it is worth repeating, but worth doing once. read more

I don't know WTF these people are talking about with 'waterfalls, trees, etc. Wilson Canyon Park is NOTHING like that. Certainly not YEAR ROUND. As for the pictures folks have posted here? TOTALLY misleading. Frankly, I think they all hiked a different park. Be forewarned, most of the trails DO NOT HAVE a lot of shade. Certainly nothing like the trails in the national forrest off the 2. As for water? Maybe in the spring, right after the rains. But it was BONE DRY in the summer. For those with dogs, this is important unless you want to cart water with you. The entrance to the place is also NOT near "14450 Olive View Drive." It's actually across the street from 14056 Olive View Drive. BUT, you can also get there by going into the Hospital complex area, and heading towards the east side of it, which can be problematic because if you enter that way, you miss the sign to pay for the parking. The park is east of the hospital and to the north of it. Not a bad place, but the posters should be more accurate in their representation of this park. read more

Waterfalls, trees, open fields, rocks to climb and nature to see. This is one of the prime examples of what a hike would need to be fun and relaxing. I don't ever realize how far I have actually walked until I check my "MapmyRun" app. This is one of my top saved trails and I would go back day after day if I didn't work a day job. Even on hot days, there is enough trees to keep you fairly cool but don't forget water! Rule #1 of hiking, don't go off the trail. I never listen to this rule, which is one reason, if I ever go missing, look on a hiking trail I just checked into. =] This park is wide enough to wonder off and I find my way back to the car somehow. I recommend this place if you want a short or long outdoor moment. Worth the trip. read more

This is a beautiful place to take a stroll any day of the week. Wear pants as trails aren't very groomed. The trees, creeks and flora will keep you smiling. Bring your dogs, a packed lunch and a camera and you'll be sure to have a great time. read more

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As long as I've lived in the valley I cant believe I've never seen this trail until very recently. It was a nice workout I was able to run some of it and some places had a nice incline. A great late-find. read more

Amazing place to hike in Sylmar! I love it:) read more

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Good inclines. Nice scenery. I do wish the trail was longer. This is one of those trails that you can jog, if you are up for that. The trail itself is wide. There are a few places that would make for good photos ops. Of course my phone died rendering me unable to take more than a couple. Rule number one: before you set out on a hike make sure your phone is charged. Easy to locate and parking is ample. Perfect place for a morning hike to get the blood pumping. I assume if you want to make it a longer hike you could go off trail. I personally am a bit too fearful to attempt that. read more

Wilson Canyon Park - View from the mid point - Hiking Near Me - Sylmar, California

To call this place a park is a stretch. It's really a preserve which is probably why they charge $5 to park a car. There are two picnic tables just north of the dam in an oak stand. You can't park near the picnic tables and need to hike in by going through the gate and take the trail to the left. The restrooms (just outhouses) are not in the location indicated on the parks department map. The hiking trails are not marked - not a good for those who get easily lost. I've seen a young deer, rabbits, tracks from a large mountain cat, and many different flowering plants. On the downside, there was plenty of horse poop and the view is usually hazy due to pollution. Despite finding small dams at the end of two separate canyons, I never found the waterfall - much like the other Yelpers. In fact, there was no water. No water in the creeks and no drinkable water. There are multiple trailheads. - From the parking lot, go through the gate and continue straight. This moderate loop goes along a dry river to one of the dams, goes past the dam, cuts up a ridge to the right, and returns back on a wide firebreak down a ridgeline. - Starting from the right side of the picnic area, there is an easy trail that also runs along a dry creek to another small dam. The formal trail ends here. There is a moderate unmaintained trail that leads to the other small dam, but I would avoid doing this because the trail isn't much fun because it's narrow and hard to follow. - For a difficult hike that leads to Wilson Canyon Saddle at the top of the mountain range, start at the picnic area and wander left. Turn right and then left up a trail that goes up the ridgeline. Knobby shoes are needed to handle the steep grade. read more

Amazing hike went up 4.5 miles close to towers... so many different trails break off at 4 mile mark read more

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OH MY GOD!!! I nearly died...pure INCLINE!!!!!!! My ass is still cussing me out but the view at the very top after it was all said and done was breathtaking. If you want to get fit and ready, here you go and it's local; another 10 minute hiking location from my house which I love. This hike really isn't for the faint of heart and you should really bring a buddy to keep you motivated and so that the two of you can help push each other up the mountain, while begging for mercy (or maybe I'm really out of shape, either way bring a friend). Beauty feels no pain is a damn lie.!!!!! but I know after a few more times up this sucker when Summer hits I'll be thanking Wilson Canyon for my plump behind. In the photos I see a waterfall, have no idea how to get there but I would love to find out because it looks so pretty :] read more

I love this place i come here maybe # times a week! its a great place for a picnic! or romantic date up by the waterfalls! luv it! read more

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Good place to hike of you live close by. Try to go before the sun sets because there are rattlesnakes and other creatures ...

Great hike! But it was kinda tricky of where the trail was at... Also, I don't like that it's too sandy... It's like you're walking by the beach... On the way back is easy! read more

Just went up there on Thursday March 22, 2012. The water level was O.K. took some new photo's too! read more

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I haven't been here in years but it's a great place for a hike. Don't expect a nice manicured park as it's been left more or less in it's natural state. Hike up into the canyons and you'll find some nice places to relax and enjoy the view. read more

Run by the Sa Mo Mtn Conservancy, so pay the $5 fee at the entrance. My favorite hike is to retrace the road from the parking area to the top of the hill. Take the fire road which loops around and back to where the cars are parked. Great picnic area under the oak trees. Trash cans, picnic tables, portable toilet plus beautiful views and scenery. You will see lizards and birds; you might see coyotes, snakes, hawks, deer. You won't believe you are within LA city limits. read more