The best running trails in Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County offers a vast network of over 1200 running routes, catering to all skill levels. From flat coastal paths to challenging mountain trails, there's a diverse range of options for every runner.

Yes, Los Angeles County has numerous easy and family-friendly jogging paths. For a pleasant, mostly flat experience, consider the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area & Lake Balboa loop, which is ideal for steady runs. The Venice Beach and Canals Loop also offers a unique and picturesque setting for a shorter, easy jog.

For runners seeking a challenge, Los Angeles County's mountainous areas provide excellent options. The Mount Hollywood and Mount Lee Loop in Griffith Park offers substantial climbs and panoramic city views. Another demanding option is the Century Lake and Mesa Peak loop from Calabasas, known for its significant elevation changes.

Absolutely! Los Angeles County features many scenic loop trails. The Hollywood Reservoir loop from South Dam is a popular choice, offering beautiful views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Another great option is the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area & Lake Balboa loop, which provides a pleasant, contained running experience.

Runners in Los Angeles County are treated to incredibly diverse views. Coastal paths like the Shoreline Beach Pedestrian Path offer stunning ocean vistas. Inland trails, such as those in Griffith Park, provide panoramic cityscapes, including iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, and views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs.

Many routes offer points of interest. The Old Zoo & Travel Town Museum loop in Griffith Park takes you past historical sites. For natural beauty, the Century Lake and Mesa Peak loop offers views of Century Lake. You can also find trails near Malibu Lagoon State Beach and the Malibu Creek Rock Pools.

The running routes in Los Angeles County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 270 reviews. Runners frequently praise the incredible variety of terrain, from oceanfront paths to mountain trails, and the consistently pleasant weather that allows for year-round outdoor activity.

Yes, Los Angeles County provides excellent long-distance running opportunities. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as "The Strand," offers 22 miles of paved path along the coast. For a challenging long-distance trail run, sections of the 67-mile Backbone Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains are ideal, such as those found in Malibu Creek State Park.

While much of Los Angeles County is sunny, you can find shaded routes, especially in larger parks and canyon areas. Elysian Park, for instance, offers rolling roads and shaded sections. Some trails within Griffith Park also provide tree cover, particularly in the lower canyon areas, offering relief from the sun.

Yes, the UCLA loop from Drake Stadium is a moderate route that takes you through the scenic campus and surrounding areas, perfect for a run with a mix of urban and green spaces.

Los Angeles County is famous for its coastal running paths. The Venice Beach Boardwalk out and back & Santa Monica route offers iconic beach views and a vibrant atmosphere. Another excellent choice is the Redondo Beach loop from Hermosa Beach, providing beautiful oceanfront scenery.

For breathtaking city views, head to Griffith Park. The Mount Hollywood and Mount Lee Loop will reward you with expansive vistas of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign and the downtown skyline. Runyon Canyon Park also provides significant climbs with views stretching from the Hollywood Sign to Santa Monica Bay.