Being able to call Los Angeles’ prestigious Westside home is simply one of those things that just about anyone would take pride in, and, truthfully, it makes a lot of sense. After all, Los Angeles is often listed as one of the most desirable places to live in the entire world, and the Westside is seen as the most sought-after area in the City of Angels.
Taking pride in being a resident of West LA could be because of many other reasons, including the fact that it’s home to some of the best schools in the world and arguably the best culinary scene in the country. Or is it because it’s the premier city on the entire west coast? Who knows! Some people say it’s because West LA is home to the best weather, beaches, food, and relaxing lifestyle in the world—but, at this point, we’re just bragging, so we’ll stop now!
At the end of the day, we’re just extremely proud to speak highly of the Westside because of all the great things that it has offered us in return as residents. Whether you live in Pacific Palisades or Malibu, Santa Monica or Venice, Playa Vista or Brentwood, we’re sure you feel the same exact way.
Though we may be biased, there’s simply no better place to live in the entire world, let’s dive in and take a look at the five best hiking trails in all of Los Angeles’ Westside!
Los Liones Trail
Located in Topanga State Park, Los Liones Trail is a hike that’s certainly not for the faint of heart, taking you on a steep climb that eventually takes you to the Parker Mesa Overlook nearly 1,300 feet above sea level. While it’s certainly no easy task, Los Liones Trail is perhaps the most rewarding trail on this list since once you make it to the top, you’re instantly met with panoramic views overlooking the Pacific and canyons around you.
If you’re looking for a rather challenging hike in the Westside, Los Liones Trail is your best bet!
El Matador State Beach
Even if you’ve never done the hike at El Matador State Beach, it’s highly likely that you’ve still had the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views that come with this breathtaking trail. The steep hike that takes you down to the picturesque beach is famous for being in The Notebook and Grease, and if you ever walk this trail, you’ll quickly realize why movie location scouts chose it!
If Los Liones Trail is a bit too challenging for you and you’d rather have a leisure walk with beautiful scenery, head to El Matador Beach—we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Paseo Miramar
Located in our home of Pacific Palisades, the trail at Paseo Miramar is somewhat of a hidden secret that we Palisades’ locals like to keep to ourselves since it’s just that wonderful! Similar to Los Liones Trail, the Paseo Miramar path will take you up to the top of the Parker Mesa Overlook for some awe-inspiring views of the coastline.
The 5.5-mile loop is popular for both leisure walkers and hikers looking to really feel the burn. No matter what you’re hoping to get out of your hike, the trail at Paseo Miramar will be nothing short of amazing.
Inspiration Point Trail
Inspiration point trail is the perfect trail for the entire family, with only a little over 2-miles worth of hiking and little to no climbs! Located in Will Rogers State Park, the trail takes you past Will Rogers’ impressive old ranch where you can even get a tour!
As for the hike itself, Inspiration Point Trail is all about having fun. If you want a more challenging hike or perhaps a quiet walk to collect your thoughts, this is not the trail for you since on any given day you can expect huge crowds!
Solstice Canyon Hiking Trail
Solstice Canyon is another one of those trails where no matter what time of the day you go, you can expect to be accompanied by plenty of other people enjoying the hike beside you and with good reason! Solstice Canyon is the perfect 3-mile long loop for intermediate-level hikers that takes you along both scenic views, and even an abandoned home is known as the Tropical Terrace Ruins, which was destroyed by a fire in the early ’80s.
In addition to that, you’ll also walk past the Keller House, which is a historic hunting cabin that will eventually take past a gorgeous waterfall, before heading up to the most incredible views in all of Malibu at the top of Rising Sun Trail.
