01
Best stair workout
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook & Culver City Stairs
Culver City • Urban Overlook Hike With Steep Stairs • Best For Fast, Intense Climbs
A short but lung-burning climb up infamous stairs to sweeping views of Inglewood, Downtown, and the Pacific on clear days.
Locals treat the Culver City Stairs like an outdoor gym, stringing together multiple laps for a serious cardio session. Take the dirt switchback trail if you prefer a gentler ascent and make a loop of it. Aim for sunrise or late afternoon to avoid harsh midday heat and enjoy the city skyline lighting up.
02
Best in-park escape
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Baldwin Hills • Rolling Hill Loops In A City Park • Best For Varied Loops And Picnics
A network of mellow-to-moderate trails winding through grassy hills, overlooks, and ponds just minutes from Inglewood.
This is where many Inglewood hikers go when they want dirt under their shoes without a long drive. You can stitch together short loops past the Japanese garden, climb to the overlook for views of the L.A. skyline, or wander the ridge trails for a bit more elevation. Bring a picnic and make a day of it—there are plenty of shaded tables to relax after your walk.
03
Classic Hollywood hike
Runyon Canyon Park
Hollywood Hills • Busy Ridge And Canyon Trails • Best For People-Watching And Views
Iconic, often crowded loops with big city views, dog-friendly trails, and a very Hollywood scene on the ridgeline.
Runyon is less about solitude and more about energy—expect a mix of trail runners, dogs, and visitors snapping photos of the skyline. Choose the steeper routes for a quick, challenging climb or the more gradual fire road for an easier outing. Parking can be tricky, so plan for extra time or go early in the morning.
04
Best coastal canyon loop
Temescal Canyon Loop
Pacific Palisades • Canyon And Ridge Loop With Ocean Peeks • Best For Weekend Half-Day Hikes
A moderately steep loop that climbs from shady canyon floor to ridgeline views over the Pacific and the Westside.
Temescal gives Inglewood hikers a classic coastal feel without driving all the way to Malibu. The lower canyon stays cool and green, then the trail pops you out on exposed ridges with glimpses of the ocean and Santa Monica below. Expect crowds on weekends and be prepared for some rocky sections and limited shade on the upper half of the loop.
05
Best coastal bluff adventure
Portuguese Bend Reserve
Palos Verdes Peninsula • Cliffside And Canyon Singletrack Network • Best For Ocean Views And Open Space
A sprawling web of trails across rolling coastal bluffs with wide-open ocean vistas and a low-key, wild feel.
Just south of Inglewood, this preserve feels surprisingly remote given its suburban surroundings. You can pick an easy out-and-back along the bluff or drop into steeper canyon trails for a more demanding loop. Go on a clear day for big views of Catalina Island, and bring water—the open terrain offers little shade once you’re out on the ridges.