Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon Park offers families an accessible Hollywood Hills adventure with rewarding panoramic views of Los Angeles, from downtown to the Pacific Ocean. The well-maintained trails range from easy stroller-friendly paths to moderate hikes that challenge older kids, and the off-leash dog areas mean your four-legged family members can join the fun too.

• ✓Breathtaking 360-degree views of Los Angeles including the Hollywood Sign, downtown skyline, and ocean
• ✓Off-leash dog park areas where kids can watch and interact with friendly pups
• ✓Multiple trail options allowing families to customize difficulty and length
• ✓Spotting celebrities and their dogs (it's a popular spot for Hollywood residents)
• ✓Feeling like you've escaped the city while still being minutes from Hollywood Boulevard

1. 1.Arrive before 8am on weekends to snag street parking on Fuller Avenue and avoid the crowds,the park gets extremely busy by mid-morning
2. 2.Bring plenty of water (at least one bottle per person) as there are no water fountains on the trails and the exposed paths offer little shade
3. 3.Start with the wider, eastern trail for an easier climb that's better for younger kids, saving the steeper western route for when they're more experienced
4. 4.Pack sun protection essentials: hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are non-negotiable in the exposed canyon
5. 5.Turn the hike into a scavenger hunt by having kids spot the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and downtown LA skyscrapers from various viewpoints

Visit on weekday mornings between 7-9am for the coolest temperatures, fewest crowds, and best parking availability. Fall through spring (October-May) offers the most comfortable weather, while summer mornings require an especially early start to beat the heat.

Parking is free but extremely limited,arrive early or use rideshare to the Fuller Avenue entrance. The park is free to enter, has no facilities (no restrooms, water, or food), and while some trails are accessible, the terrain is generally challenging for strollers beyond the initial flat section.

Best hiking weather is October through May when temperatures are mild. Summer months (June-September) can be brutally hot with little shade,if visiting in summer, go at sunrise only. The park occasionally closes during extreme fire danger or after heavy rains when trails become muddy and unsafe.

Head to The Griddle Cafe (3 miles away) for massive pancakes and kid-friendly breakfast after your morning hike, or grab lunch at Tocaya Organica in West Hollywood for fresh, healthy Mexican food with plenty of options for picky eaters.