5 Best Running Trails in Los Angeles

Lace up and enjoy L.A.'s natural beauty while getting fit!

It’s 72 degrees, the warm Los Angeles sun is shining on you, and the humidity is nice and low. Perfect weather for a run! L.A. has some of the best running trails in the nation, surrounded by mountains, ocean, parkland, and wildlife. Wonder why Angelenos are so laid back? Boost your endorphins and take in the natural splendor on one of these runs, and you’ll be calm and cool, too!

San Vicente Median Strip
Address: Santa Monica; Starts at San Vincente by the Santa Monica Pier
Why We Like It: This urban running path stretches from Santa Monica to Brentwood, and is covered in soft, joint-friendly grass the whole way.

Wilacre Park
Address: 12601 Mulholland Dr, Studio City, CA 91604
Why We Like It: This Studio City park is adjacent to Coldwater Canyon Park and boasts both mountain and valley views. Its abundant shade makes it a nice refuge on a hot day.

Santa Monica’s Palisades Park
Address: Ocean Ave. (from Colorado Ave. to San Vicente Blvd.)
Why We Like It: Views of the ocean? Check. Lush grass stretching as far as the eye can see? Check. Palm trees? Of course. Rose gardens? The more fragrant, the better. This park is a sight to be seen.

Griffith Park
Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Why We Like It: Griffith Park boasts incredible views of downtown and the Hollywood sign, and its rugged terrain is punctuated by running trails that attract locals and tourists alike.

Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve
Address: 5600 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91411
Website: http://www.laparks.org/dos/horticulture/sepulvedabasin.htm
Why We Like It: Run amidst the sycamores and willows, and spot wildlife along the way! Ducks, geese, and even herons and egrets make this spot their home.

UCLA Drake Track Stadium
Address: 340 Charles E Young Dr N, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Why We Like It: Ringed with trees and home to a nine-lane, 400 meter track, this stadium is great for runners who like to run on a professional track, or mix up their workout by running stadiums.

Rose Bowl
Address: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103
Why We Like It: The classic Pasadena event location offers up an even running surface for runners who prefer smooth, steady terrain.

California Coastal Trail – Venice to Santa Monica Beach
Address: varies
Why We Like It: Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific coast while you enjoy a cool, refreshing seabreeze.

Lake Balboa
Address: 6300 Balboa Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Why We Like It: Enjoy views of glimmering Lake Balboa as you run amidst flowering trees, birds and ducks, and lush grass.

Tell us about your favorite place to run below.

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Candyce

Candyce is a food, travel and animal lover from sunny Los Angeles. She is a social media strategist and graphic designer by trade and passion. Having used social media since the Friendster days while dabbling in MS paint, her professional and creative interest naturally lead her down the social media and graphic design path.

In her free time, she loves taking advantage of the beautiful Southern California climate. Swimming, kayaking, playing softball, taking trips up the coast, hiking, and DDP yoga are some of her favorite activities.

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