At a Glance:

Website: http://www.laparks.org/dos/parks/facility/runyoncanyonpk.htm
Address: 2000 N. Fuller Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046
Hike length: about 60 min
Price: free
Sweat Scale: medium
Energy level: medium

In Los Angeles we are blessed with pretty much perfect weather 365 days of the year. Having lived here for 8 months (and just getting back from snowy DC 24 hours ago), I can attest that there is nothing better than the LA climate. Never do I have an excuse to curl up inside under a blanket and binge watch Netflix because it’s always going to be around 74 and sunny (pros and cons, people). With that being said, outdoor workouts are extremely popular and Runyon Canyon is my hike of choice.

Pre Sweat 

Runyon is always packed so walking or ubering are your best bets. If you’re up for a challenge, there are plenty of free neighborhood side streets around the area you might just have to park a few blocks away. Prime parking would be on Fuller just north of Hollywood Blvd. It’s a good idea to come prepared with tennis shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses. If you forget water, there is a guy who sells some right outside of the entrance.

Sweat

There are a couple paths and directions you can take but I recommend heading straight and to the right when you arrive at the Fuller entrance. The steepest and most difficult part, in my opinion, is much easier to go up than down. This medium difficulty route is about 3 miles and gives prime views of the beautiful mansions in the hills. If you have a dog, you’re in luck! This is a leash free park just make sure your dog is friendly to others. Runyon Canyon is perfect for natives and visitors alike as it gives stunning views of the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, and downtown LA. There are two great stopping points on the way up for pictures.

Post Sweat

After you’ve worked up an appetite, walk over to Griddle Café, In n Out, or The Carving Board for some delicious food. If you need to quench your thirst, grab a green smoothie at Open Source Organics. I swear by Green Protein and Moksha. Lastly, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is just steps away from Runyon.

Tricks of the Trade

• The park is open from dusk to dawn and has great views at sunrise and sunset.
• Check out @RunyonYoga on Twitter to see the schedule of by-donation yoga classes at the park. All you need is a mat or towel!
• Come the day after it rains to see the clearest view of LA. You’ll even be able to see the ocean!
• Keep your eyes on your fellow hikers; celebrities are known to frequent the path.
• Curious about the view at dusk? Check out my main blog photo! I took it during a PM hike.