For a runner, Los Angeles is nothing short of heaven. It offers perfect weather throughout the year, diverse landscapes, and iconic landmarks which makes it possible for people to explore the whole city on foot. Be it the breezy coastal view, plush parks, or steep hills, Los Angeles has every aspect of running covered.

Here is the list of best trails and tracks in LA, a surefire recipe to get you lacing up those running shoes and out there on the track

**1. Griffith Park Trails**

**What it is** - One of the largest parks in the country in urban areas, Griffith Park boasts more than 50 miles of trails from picturesque canyons, rolling hills, and amazing viewpoints.

**Why it’s amazing** - Griffith Park trails are adored for the views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown Los Angeles, and even the Pacific Ocean. This park boasts a series of trails, some easy and few challenging, which is thus suitable for both beginner and skilled level runners.

**What it’s great for** - Trail runs, hill exercises, and scenic jogs amidst breathtaking scenery.

**Other activities** - Take a stroll around the world-famous Griffith Observatory, visit the Los Angeles Zoo, or simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of nature surrounding the park.



2\. **Santa Monica Beach Path**

**What is it** - A 22-mile paved path following the coast from Pacific Palisades to Torrance.

**Why it's amazing** - This famous trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, warm sandy beaches, and lively beach activity. The almost flat path makes this excellent for long runs or easy jogging.

**What it's great for** - Scenic runs along the breeze from the ocean.

**Other activities** - Beach volleyball, bike ride, or just lying by the shore after finishing your run.



3\. **Runyon Canyon Park**

**What is it** - 3 miles of loop trail through the heart of Hollywood-known for rather steep climbs and stunning viewpoints.  

**Why it's awesome**-  Great place for the fitness enthusiast or the celebrity to get a good workout with some scenic views.  The rugged terrain is suitable for great, challenging workouts. 

**What it's great for** - Hill training and cross-training.

**Other activities** - Yoga classes and dog-friendly trails for people who own dogs.



**4. The LA River Greenway Trail**

**What is it** - A paved path that runs parallel to the renewed Los Angeles River. 

**Why it's awesome** - The flat trail is an excellent route for first-time runners, or for those who want to take an extremely casual, scenic run. It also gives one a chance to see how the concrete jungle is reclaiming itself.

**What it's good for -** Easy runs, interval training.

**Other activities** - Cycling, and walks in nature.



**5. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area**

**What it is** -The unknown gem in Baldwin Hills that holds a variety of trails and beautiful city views.

**Why it's great** - Partake in stunning views of LA favorites, such as the Hollywood Sign and the Downtown skyline, all achieved within peaceful natural surroundings. Trails range from easy to challenging, perfect for any runner.

**What it’s good for** -  Trail running and endurance exercises. 

**Other activities** -  Picnicking, fishing, and visiting the Japanese Garden.



**6. Strand (Marvin Braude Bike Trail)**

**What it is** - a 22-mile coastal path running from Santa Monica, Venice Beach, to Hermosa Beach

**Why it's awesome** - a flat, paved trail that allows people to experience ocean views, lively boardwalks, and cafe-lined beaches on the best of Southern California.

**What it's good for** - long-distance running or steady-paced jogging.

**Other activities**  - Cycling, roller skating, or hitting the beach.



**7. Elysian Park** 

**What is it -**  It's one of the oldest parks in LA, Elysian Park, which happens to be situated at the edge of Dodger Stadium with trails along with stunning city views and mountain vistas. 

**Why it's awesome** -  The park trails are surrounded by lush greenery and provide an escape from the buzzing of the city. 

**What it's good for** - Trail running and exploring uncharted routes.

**Other activities** - Picnicking and other sights of scenic views.



**8. Hollywood Reservoir Loop**

**What is it -**  A 3.5-mile paved loop around the beautiful Hollywood Reservoir.

**Why it's awesome** -This is one of the quietest trails with beautiful vistas of the Hollywood Sign and the surrounding hills. It's a real treasure for an easy run.

**What it's great for** - Short-distance runs, gentle recovery jogs.

**Other activities** - Walking and birdwatching.



**9. Silver Lake Reservoir Path**

**What it is** - A 2.2-mile loop around the Silver Lake Reservoir in a hip neighborhood.

**Why it's awesome** -The flat loop is good for speed work, and the neighborhood is lively with tons of cafes and boutiques to hang out in post-run.

**What it's good for** - Tempo runs and social runs.

**Other activities** - Strolling with family or dogs and food at the nearby restaurants.



**10. Palisades Park**

**What is it -** A 1.6-mile trail sitting on the top of the bluffs in Santa Monica, with views of the Pacific Ocean that don't exist elsewhere.

**Why it's awesome** - This beautiful trail is shaded with palm trees and lined with benches, a great vehicle for a light jog and cool-down.

**What it's good for** - Quick runs and cool-downs.

**Other activities** - Picnicking, people-watching, and sunsets at the sea.



**Our suggestions for Running groups in Los Angeles** 

Los Angeles is a paradise for runners, with city trails, coastal paths, and rocky hills. Be it training for a marathon or running casually, LA has wonderful, varied trails and tracks to suit everyone. 

A few running groups in Los Angeles 

[Tuesday evening beach path run ](https://sweatpals.com/tuesday-evening-beach-path-run/2024-11-19)

[Huntington Run Club](https://sweatpals.com/huntington-run-club/2024-11-20)

[Pasadena Pacers](https://sweatpals.com/pasadena-pacers/2024-11-19)

[Tuesday night run with Kirh](https://sweatpals.com/tuesday-night-run-with-kirh/2024-11-19)

[Thursday night run with Kirh](https://sweatpals.com/thursday-night-run-w-kirh/2024-11-21)

[Huntington Run Club ](https://sweatpals.com/huntington-run-club-be2d/2024-11-23)

Well, lace up your running shoes, take a tour around the beautiful routes, and plunge into the colorful scenery of Los Angeles.