Day Trips from Los Angeles
← All Los Angeles day tripsDay Trips from Los Angeles: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Los Angeles, CA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Los Angeles
Placerita Canyon Nature Center
Newhall, CA 91321
Just 36 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 1,197 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ocean Trails Reserve
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Just 38 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 1,342 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Vicente Bluffs Reserve
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Just 47 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 868 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Just 45 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 2,250 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Palos Verdes Estates Shoreline Preserve
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Just 46 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 2,925 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Palm Canyon
CA 92264, USA
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 958 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Whitewater Preserve
Whitewater, CA 92282
Just 1 hr 42 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 1,481 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dana Point Preserve
34558 Scenic Dr, Dana Point
Just 1 hr 8 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 946 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area
Pearblossom, CA 93553
Just 1 hr 21 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 1,122 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Oak Glen Preserve
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Just 1 hr 27 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 3,091 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Eaton Canyon Nature Center
Pasadena, CA 91107
Just 25 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.7 stars by 1,872 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Switzer Falls Trail
Tujunga, CA 91042
Just 35 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.7 stars by 913 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Los Angeles
What are the best hiking trails near Los Angeles, CA?
The best hikes near Los Angeles range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Los Angeles?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Los Angeles offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Los Angeles?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Los Angeles are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Los Angeles?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Los Angeles. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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