01
Closest wild-feeling loop
Turnbull Canyon Trail
Whittier Hills • Ridge And Canyon Loop • Closest Wild-Feeling Escape
A classic Whittier Hills loop with steady climbs, big valley views, and a real backcountry feel just minutes from Montebello.
Start from the Turnbull Canyon Road trailhead and follow the network of fire roads and singletrack up onto the ridgeline for broad views over the San Gabriel Valley. Locals use this area for everything from sunrise hikes to golden-hour photo walks, and you can shorten or extend your route using the many junctions. Expect some exposed stretches, so bring water and avoid the mid-afternoon heat.
02
Best quick conditioning hike
Ascot Hills Park
Eastside Los Angeles • Urban Hillside Open Space • Best Quick Climb With Skyline Views
Short, steep trails wind up grassy hillsides for fast laps with big views of downtown, Montebello, and the San Gabriels.
Ascot Hills is a go-to spot when you want a workout without committing half a day. A small network of dirt paths and service roads lets you link loops, repeat climbs, or wander the ridges while taking in city and mountain views. It is exposed and can get warm, but the convenience and views make it a favorite after-work or pre-brunch hike.
03
Most popular waterfall option
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail
San Gabriel Valley Foothills • Waterfall And Creek Hike • Top Pick For First-Time San Gabriel Hikers
A family-friendly canyon walk with creek crossings that leads to a photogenic seasonal waterfall beneath the San Gabriel Mountains.
From the Eaton Canyon Nature Center in Pasadena, a well-used dirt path follows the wash into a narrowing canyon before entering a shaded stretch with boulders and multiple stream crossings. The payoff is a small but dramatic waterfall tucked into a rock amphitheater, a welcome cool-down on warmer days. Go early on weekends for easier parking and a bit more quiet on the trail.
04
Iconic LA skyline hike
Griffith Park Trails (Mount Hollywood)
Griffith Park And Los Feliz • Iconic City-View Trails • Classic La Experience For Visitors
Gentle but steady dirt paths climb from the Observatory toward Mount Hollywood, opening up wide views over the city and the Hollywood Sign.
Park near the Griffith Observatory or in one of the nearby canyon lots and follow signed trails toward Mount Hollywood for a flexible out-and-back or loop. The grades are moderate, but the payoff is huge: sweeping views over downtown, the San Gabriels, and the Hollywood Sign on clear days. Sunset is spectacular here, so bring a headlamp if you plan to linger after the sun dips.
05
Shadiest summer escape
Monrovia Canyon Falls Trail
San Gabriel Mountains Front Range • Shaded Mountain Canyon Trek • Weekend Micro-Adventure From The Suburbs
A cool, forested canyon walk that follows a lively creek to a charming waterfall, feeling surprisingly remote for being so close to town.
Monrovia Canyon Park offers a well-maintained trail that climbs gently along a stream under oaks, alders, and bay trees, making it a pleasant escape on warm days. The route is short but scenic, with bridges, rock steps, and plenty of spots to pause by the water before reaching the falls. Check park hours and parking fees ahead of time, then tack on a picnic at one of the nearby tables to round out the outing.