West Trail Loop

Los Angeles, CA
4.3
7 Reviews
West Trail Loop
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Details

Distance
1.85 miles
Elevation Gain
463 ft
Route Type
Loop

Features

Dog Friendly
Scenic
Romantic
Picnic Area
Family Friendly
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About this place

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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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
Community
Reviews
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Laura Tru
6/28/2022
Walk to Observatory on West Trail
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 ...
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Margaret L
4/17/2022
BEST VIEW EVER!
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 ...
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Margo Schmiederer
8/14/2020
Great views of LA and the ocean
The observatory has wonderful views of LA and the coloring of the area around sunset is perfect for pictures
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Stacey Castro
10/7/2018
Nice getaway πŸ˜‰
Beautiful and relaxing 😎
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Jacob Lee
11/10/2016
Good location but crowded
I found the trail to be best for a good hike. The view was amazing and while it was very crowded I still found ...
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Kevin Abernethy
11/4/2016
Good Views
Good views of the city, and it makes you feel like you are out of the congestion of LA. We got here in the ...
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Taylor Brown
7/17/2016
Hike, Don't Run
Recommend for a hike over a run. Trail is rather steep, and steepest at the top. Trail ends at a luncheon lookout area. Can go ...
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