Runyon Canyon Park Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Views

This loop utilizes the West Trail (Spine Trail) and Runyon Canyon Rd to take hikers along ridgelines and through the bottom of Runyon Canyon while offering numerous vista points that showcase the stunning scenery of the L.A. area.

To begin this hike, start from the trailhead off of Mulholland Dr. and follow the West Trail (Spine Trail) as it immediately forks to the right. You'll quickly reach Indian Rock, which is the high point of Runyon Canyon Park at 1,320 ft. From here, you can experience great, uninterrupted views of the area, including the San Fernando Valley. You'll then continue along the West Trail (Spine Trail) to the south as it passes by a turnoff for Solar Dr. before climbing up to the ridgeline between Runyon and Nichols Canyons.

Once on the ridgeline, you'll start to descend toward West Hollywood and quickly reach Middle Rock, which serves as another opportunity for fantastic views at 1,218 ft. Eventually, you'll reach the canyon's base as you hike through a eucalyptus grove.

From here, you'll hike up the middle of the canyon to the north on Runyon Canyon Rd. Once on Runyon Canyon Rd, you'll gradually start ascending through Runyon Canyon before the path bends to the right to traverse the eastern ridgeline. Another great viewpoint (Clouds Rest Overlook) lies just to the south of the point where you reach the ridge.

To make your way back to the trailhead, head north, continuing on Runyon Canyon Rd, through the east side of Runyon Canyon Park for nearly 6/10 of mile. Once you've made it to the parking lot, Runyon Canyon Rd comes to an end and the loop is complete.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.