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Runyan Canyon Loop


Highlights:

Stunning views of LA basin, perfect place to walk the dog off-leash
Near:Los Angeles, CA
Scenery:
Distance:3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:700 ft
Hike Time:2 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Fire road/pavement
HikeType:Loop


Summary: This was an odd hike in the heart of Hollywood, just a few blocks from the famous Grauman's Chinese Theater. The hike traverses through Runyan Canyon, whose former residents include John McCormick and Errol Flynn. The hike includes 3 great observation points with stunning views of Hollywood and the surrounding area. This park is an off-leash area for walking your dog, and it was rather amazing to watch the parade of docile dogs and slightly oddball owners traipsing along the trail. This place was busy on a weekday morning, so the weekends must be a zoo.

From the end of Fuller, follow the fire road about a half mile past to the first observation point. The trail at this point goes up some stairs and traverses a ridgeline to the second observation point. The trail continues upwards to another entrance gate, where you make a sharp turn to the final observation point. On the way down, stay to the right when you near the second observation point to make this hike a loop.

Trailhead: From the San Fernando Valley, head south on the Hollywood Freeway (101), and exit at Highland. Take Highland to Hollywood Blvd and turn right. A few blocks past the Graumans Chinese Theater, turn right on Fuller Avenue. Fuller dead ends into the park. You will need to find parking on the street. There is also a park entrance on Vista, a few block further down Hollywood Blvd. (Lat:34.10509 Lon:-118.34889)
Trail Guides for Runyan Canyon Loop:
Afoot & Afield In Los Angeles
by Jerry Schad  (Wilderness Press)

Best Seasons: Fall, Winter, Spring
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs
Ranger Contact:  LA City Parks (213) 473-7070
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted  104 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 2 of 10   Submit your own review
Reviewed by Christiane on 11/2/2008
Runyon Canyon is the only other big, non-fenced off-leash are for dogs in L.A. besides Huntington Dog Beach. It's a great thing as your dog can run free and you're getting a A+++ workout when taking the non-paved path up the steep hills. If you take the 101 to Burnham and enter the park that way it's much better than Fuller & there is no dog poop on the path (because everyone picks up) and it's not that crowded. Love this place & so does my dog!!!

Reviewed by lauren conrad on 10/17/2008
i hike it daily during the week, it gets very crowded on the weekends but during the week early early early morning its great. the scenic view is real nice but people need to keep their dogs on a leash

Reviewed by CCC on 10/14/2008
The dogs rule here. If you don't mind disgraceful dog owners it's ok. Watch your every step carefully cause there is dog poo everywhere. I won't be doing this one again anytime soon.

Reviewed by Lisette on 10/11/2008
i like it a lot ONLY ONE THING WRONG ******DOG OWNERS********* some dog owners are extremely irresponsible, they let their dogs run loose even in the on leash areas, AND don't pick up after them

Reviewed by David on 6/29/2008
I don't really consider this much of a hike. It is way too crowded, short route, and other then views of LA has little going for it. With all that said, I do like going here for quick workouts since it is so convenient.

Reviewed by Sascha on 6/16/2008
Nice, but hardly any shade, have to go very early and lots of sun-block. And There are a ton of irresponsible dog owners unfortunately. But I do enjoy the trail.

Reviewed by RA on 6/3/2008
The park used to be a great place to hike, relax, and enjoy the scenery, but a few years ago the LA times ran a story about the park and since then it is out of control, I live two minutes walking distance from the park, but I don't even I don't bother going anymore. There are too many people, too many cars and too many dogs. some dog owners are extremely irresponsible, they let their dogs run loose even in the on leash areas, don't pick up after them, and if you ask them to respect the rules, they get very offended and defensive. too bad, used to be a beautiful place.

Reviewed by TAS on 5/31/2008
great place for a hike. A chance to see the who's who of famous hollywood Dogstars. some weekends if you get there early enough they have dog store on the corner that sales custom wear toys & treats for your dog! cool place!


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
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