From the beaches to the mountains, Los Angeles has great running options for both the hardcore athlete and those who are just out to enjoy nature. Using data from fitness app Strava and other trail route sources, we found the most popular, interesting, and challenging routes within the limits of L.A. County.
The Strand
Santa Monica/Venice
This popular paved beachfront bike route covers 22 miles across some of the most famous beaches in the country, including Santa Monica and Venice. Just don't expect a paved path: for safety, runners are advised to run on the sand alongside cyclists. Many joggers are especially fond of the 14.3-mile northern stretch between Will Rogers State Beach and the Venice Pier, which offers views of the Santa Monica mountains to the north. The Strand is also accessible via the LA Metro system—no traffic jam required to run.
More details via Strava and the official site >>
Griffith Park/Griffith Observatory
Los Feliz/Glendale/Burbank
A classic Eastside destination, Griffith Park boasts 4,300 acres of land and some 53 miles of trails, with plenty of elevation changes for those seeking a challenge. Try the steep 3.8-mile from the Greek Theatre up to the observatory and back, or the 5.3-mile trail that goes the top of Mount Hollywood, with a 1,300-foot elevation change. The rugged setting features broad views of the greater LA area (on a clear day, anyway), and up-close views of local wildlife. Bring water, and watch out for rattlesnakes on the trail.
More details via the official site, AllTrails.com and Modern Hiker >>
Elysian Park
Echo Park/Chinatown
Best known as the home of Dodger Stadium, this park near downtown also includes a mix of trails and city views. The popular Western Loop traverses 2.4 miles of the park north of the stadium, with additional trails allowing you to stretch your run even longer. Skyline views are a bonus of running here, but don't go on Dodger game days if you want to avoid crowds.
More details via the official site and MapMyRun >>
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
South Los Angeles
Built on a portion of the Baldwin Hills in South LA, the Hahn Recreation Area is located on the former site of a major oil-drilling operation that's been gradually drying up over the decades. As one of the newer and larger parks in the city, it's been an increasing draw for locals looking for lots of room to exercise and great views, minutes crowds. There are more than 7 miles of trails, including a main route of 2.8 miles that will take you across the low hillsides and let you catch all the views.
More details via the official site and Alltrails.com >>
Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve
Rancho Palos Verdes
Another newer addition to the county's roster of parks, Portuguese Bend sits on a dramatic ocean-facing hillside of the Palos Verdes peninsula. The main 3.1-mile route will take you between the ocean and the reserve's crest, with a 1,300-foot elevation change. From there, you can take a variety of smaller trails that are home to diverse plant and animal life (enjoy, but watch for rattlesnakes), with great views of the Catalina Islands off the coast.
More details via the official site, The Outbound Collective and MapMyRun >>
