Hiking is the go-to outdoor activity in Los Angeles because it's so easily accessible no matter what part of the city you live in. It's an easy way to get some exercise and let kiddos run out all their energy. I love an activity that doesn't cost me anything, so I've ventured out on plenty of trails with my little ones. Keep reading to learn about some of my favorite kid friendly hikes in Los Angeles!
Bronson Canyon Caves
One of the first hikes I ventured out on when I first moved to Los Angeles was the Bronson Canyon trails. While that hike is long, steep and an excellent workout, it isn't really ideal for bringing little ones. If you're not looking to break a sweat and you've got small kids in tow, then the break off trail at Bronson is just the thing.
After a short walk through the parking lot and towards the trailhead, you'll see a trail off to the right side. Follow that trail for .25 miles and you'll see where it opens up into a rocky canyon with a cave. Sometimes you can walk through the caves, but other times it can be closed off due to falling debris. Even if the caves aren't an option, there's plenty of spots for little ones to climb and explore. You can even get a pretty good view of the Hollywood sign from this spot!
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
This hike has a few different options for getting to the top. You can walk up a paved road, a dirt path or use the main attraction, the stairs. While the stairs can be done by children, there's lots of them and they have varying heights & widths, so it's probably best for older kiddos who are more coordinated and sure footed. There's a road to the right of the entrance that leads up to the hike summit, and on the left side of that road is a paved path that's perfect for hiking up with a stroller.
You'll also have the option to stop at the amphitheater to enjoy a snack while you look out over the city of angels. And if you're feeling extra adventurous you can make your way to Kenneth Hahn state park via the archway located in the upper parking lot of the overlook. Which brings me to my next hiking locale...
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
This is easily my favorite hiking spot for so many different reasons! Not only can you hike the trails, but you can visit playgrounds, go fishing, play disc golf or have a picnic by the stream. The vastness of Kenneth Hahn makes it the perfect place to visit if you've got curious little explorers with lots of energy...and lets be honest, most little ones are curious with lots of energy!
Almost all of the trails at Kenneth Hahn are unpaved dirt/rock, with plenty of dips and turns that aren't ideal for strollers or anyone who has trouble walking. There is a loop at the top of the park that's paved so it's great for strollers or other mobility devices. In addition to the loop, there's an outdoor workout circuit, picnic area and playground. And even if you don't feel up to any exercise, you can still take in some awesome views of the city.
The Japanese garden and koi pond is another spot that has lots to explore. Depending on the day you can see koi, turtles, ducks and beautiful water lilies. You also have the option to follow the paved trail which takes you to a small waterfall. And if you still haven't had your fill of exploring, you can visit the fishing pond that's located near the entrance of the park. In addition to a pond you'll find a stream, another waterfall and plenty of picnic shelters. There's also a bunch of extra large rocks that are perfect for adventurous kiddos to climb.
Griffith Observatory
There are a few trails to choose from in the park, but I tend to stick to the east or west loop that leads straight up to the observatory. I use the Trails Cafe as my reference point because it's an easy place to find on google maps. If you drive in and park in this area, you'll be near a playground that has fun climbing structures. I like to save the playtime for post hike to encourage less complaining during the hike. And if you've ever hiked with a child, you know there is plenty of complaining that takes place! You can also use a stroller pretty easily on this hike as well. There's no paving, but it's fairly level and wide the whole way up, so it's doable.
And another bonus about hiking at Griffith is the observatory! Once you make it to the top, you’ll have the option to go inside and explore some of the exhibits that they have to offer. Just be sure that your timing is on point if you want to go inside the observatory as they’re not open until noon. Even if you find yourself there when it’s closed, you’ll still be able to take in sweeping views of the city and get some nice pics of the Hollywood sign.
And there you have it, a list of my favorite hikes to go on with littles! There are soooo many more options, but these are the ones we frequent, so I’m familiar with their ins and outs. The great thing about LA is that it’s jam packed with amazing hiking destinations, the options seem endless. What’s your favorite hike in the LA area? Let me know so I can take the kiddos sometime.
Happy Hiking!
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