West Trail Loop

Los Angeles, California

4.3/5

based on 7 reviews

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Details

Distance

1.85 miles

Elevation Gain

463 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Clare Healy

Griffith Observatory's West Trail is a short loop trail for a great workout or run with amazing views over Los Angeles.

The trail starts near Dell Picnic area, near the Trails Cafe. On this wide fire road, you can choose to run or hike, but don't expect to have the trail to yourself, especially if you're heading out on the weekend. With that said, you can time your run or hike around sunset and get amazing views before you head back down to the car.

On the trail up, you'll be able to enjoy views of both the observatory and Los Angeles. While you're heading uphill, keep an eye out for a path leading up to the observatory. The trail isn't really well-marked, but you should be able to sort the trail out pretty easily given how visible the observatory is. To finish the trail, continue downhill on the loop back to the picnic area. If you're just getting warmed up, head out for one more lap.

Once you're all set, head to Cafe Los Feliz for a quick bite and your next cup of coffee.

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Features

Fitness

Photography

Running

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Family Friendly

Picnic Area

Romantic

Scenic

West Trail Loop Reviews

Laura Tru

West Trail Loop

06/28/22

Love this trail. I take everyone that visits me on this trail. Moderately easy. You do need adequate footwear because it’s sandy and a little steep in a few places. Easy to slip down. Great views of the whole LA area and you can see a lot of the ocean on a good day. Also great bathroom/picnic/playground area at the start of the hike. Lots of shade at the beginning.

5.0

Margaret L

West Trail Loop

04/17/22

Best time to go is early in the mornings. It’s less crowded, easier to find parking, and it makes you feel like you have the place all to your self.

4.0

Margo Schmiederer

West Trail Loop

08/14/20

The observatory has wonderful views of LA and the coloring of the area around sunset is perfect for pictures

5.0

Stacey Castro

West Trail Loop

10/07/18

Beautiful and relaxing 😎

5.0

Jacob Lee

West Trail Loop

11/10/16

I found the trail to be best for a good hike. The view was amazing and while it was very crowded I still found the trail and destination to be a worthy and easy hike.

4.0

Explorer

Kevin Abernethy

Explorer

West Trail Loop

11/04/16

Good views of the city, and it makes you feel like you are out of the congestion of LA. We got here in the evening, and it was very crowded, but there view was worth it.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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West Trail Loop

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West Trail Loop Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Ferndell to the West Observatory Loop Trail to Griffith Observatory

Mount Hollywood Trail

Bronson Bat Caves

Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon Trail

Hollyridge Trail to the Hollywood Sign [Closed]

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