Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
The best walks and hikes in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
4.8
(870)
9,499
hikers
159
hikes
Hiking in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area offers access to a 247-acre urban oasis, transformed from industrial land into a vibrant green space. The park features well-maintained walking paths and hiking trails that wind through restored wetland areas, showcasing California's native plant species. Adjacent to the Los Angeles River, the area provides diverse urban park landscapes and a habitat for over 150 bird species. This environment supports ongoing conservation efforts to rehabilitate the river ecosystem.
Best hiking trails in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
- The most popular hiking route is Meadows & Vistas β Elysian Park, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 28 minutes to complete. This route features varied terrain within Elysian Park, offering views and natural surroundings.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Elysian Park West Loop, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) path. This trail offers a loop through the western part of Elysian Park with gentle elevation changes.
- Local hikers also love the Portola Trail Loop, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through urban parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 43 minutes.
- Hiking in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area is defined by restored wetlands, access to the Los Angeles River, and diverse urban park landscapes. The network offers options for various ability levels, with more than 90 easy routes available.
- The routes in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 810 reviews. More than 8,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
5.0
(2)
48
hikers
4.30km
01:10
70m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.28km
01:43
90m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
38.3km
09:45
120m
120m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.23km
00:20
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.26km
01:28
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
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Tips from the Community
The Sunnynook Pedestrian Bridge, also known as the Atwater Village Love Lock Bridge, is one of the older pedestrian bridges in the city. It's known locally as a spot to leave a lock proclaiming your everlasting love.
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The Baum Bicycle Bridge is named in honor of Alex Baum, who was a tireless advocate for cycling infrastructure around Los Angeles. LA cyclists owe him a debt of gratitude for much of the gains that have been made in the city.
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North Atwater Bridge, also known as La Kretz Bridge or La Kretz Crossing, is a 325-foot-long cable-stayed pedestrian bridge stretching over the Los Angeles River. It connects Griffith Park to Atwater Village, just south of North Atwater Park. Originally designed to provide horseback riders from Atwater Village safe access to Griffith Parkβs extensive riding trails, the bridge eliminates the need to cross Los Feliz Boulevard or the often slippery concrete-bottomed L.A. River.
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A low stone wall separates the path from a shaded area with a bench and picnic table. From here you can see the Baum Bicycle Bridge and steep hills of Griffith Park across the river.
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Bright red bridge for bikes and pedestrians to get across to the Taylor train yard.
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This very small park is at the end of the LA River Bike Path, just before you exit the path to cross over the bridge and Riverside Drive ends at the roundabout. Most people turn around here - or start here to go the other end - but If you keep going over the bridge and straight down Figueroa after the roundabout you can turn right on 43rd, go over the bridge and turn left on Mosher (the first street). At the end of Mosher is a park where you can enter the Arroyo Seco Bike Path on your left. It goes all the way to South Pasadena!
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The Red Car Bridge is a bicycle and pedestrian only bridge which opened in January of 2020. This pre-fab bridge was placed on the footings of the Red Car trolleys rail line, which stopped running some 60 plus years ago. Great views of the LA river and is lit up at night. Connects Atwater Village to the LA River bike path. - credit M. James Watkins, local guide
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I wonder who approved this design. yeah.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area?
The Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area features over 130 hiking routes. More than 75 of these are classified as easy, making the park accessible for various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails?
The trails in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area are generally well-maintained and relatively flat, winding through restored wetland areas. This makes them suitable for all fitness levels, including families and casual nature enthusiasts. The park's location along the Los Angeles River also offers unique riparian landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options?
Yes, the park is excellent for families. Its trails are relatively flat and well-maintained, suitable for all ages. In addition to hiking, the park offers recreational facilities like a children's playground, sports fields, and basketball courts, providing a blend of active and passive recreation opportunities for families.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
While the park is a natural space, specific regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary. It's always best to check the official park website for the most current rules on pet access to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone. You can find more information on the California State Parks website.
What natural features or wildlife can I observe while hiking?
Hikers can enjoy observing native plants like Deergrass and California poppy, and a diverse array of wildlife. The park is a thriving ecological habitat, with over 150 bird species spotted along the Los Angeles River. You might also encounter mammals such as coyotes, gray foxes, and raccoons, as well as various reptilian and amphibian species.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the park?
Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Hiking loop from Echo Park offers a 4.5-mile (7.3 km) easy route. Another popular choice is the Echo Park β Echo Lake loop from Dodger Stadium, a shorter 1-mile (1.6 km) easy path.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 770 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's successful transformation into a serene urban oasis, its well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife and restored wetlands within a city setting.
Is there parking available at Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area?
Yes, the park provides parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check the official park website or local signage upon arrival for specific parking areas and any potential fees or restrictions.
How can I get to Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area using public transport?
As an urban park, Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area is generally accessible via public transportation. We recommend checking the local transit authority's website (e.g., Metro Los Angeles) for bus routes and schedules that serve the park's vicinity.
What is the best time of year to visit for hiking?
The park is enjoyable year-round due to Southern California's mild climate. However, spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures for hiking and optimal conditions for birdwatching and observing native plants in bloom. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended during those months.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest within the park?
The primary points of interest are the extensive restored wetland areas, showcasing California's native plant species, and the unique access to the Los Angeles River. The park itself is a landmark of historical transformation, having been converted from the industrial Taylor Yard into a vibrant natural and recreational space.
Are there any easy routes for beginners?
Absolutely. With over 75 easy routes available, the park is ideal for beginners. Trails are generally flat and well-maintained. A good option for an easy, short walk is the Echo Park β Echo Lake loop from Dodger Stadium, which is about 1 mile (1.6 km) long.
Most popular routes in Rio De Los Angeles State Park State Recreational Area
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