Elysian Park West Loop

For a quick and easy hike near the heart of Los Angeles, head to the Elysian Park West Loop with your four-legged pal! This dog-friendly trail is nestled in the northwest portion of Elysian Park, the city's oldest and second largest park. With its central location, this 2.4-mile loop is the pawfect choice for squeezing in a decent hike with Fido before you head off to work.

The trailhead can be found at the intersection of Elysian Park Drive and Stadium Way, near the Grace E. Simons Lodge. Look for the dirt path leading north to a white gate—this is the start of the trail. The first part is well-trodden and will take you and your pup past some sweet-smelling eucalyptus trees. As you approach the 0.4 mile mark, you'll be greeted by the sight of the Golden State Freeway. You'll also be able to see the LA River and San Gabriel Mountains beyond the freeway if the air is clear.

The trail starts ascending after making a hairpin turn at the 0.8 mile mark. Continue on to the steepest part of the route, which active doggos should have no problem tackling, until you reach the Marian Harlow Memorial Grove. Approximately the halfway point of the loop, this small flower garden offers a bench and woofderful views of downtown LA. Pawse here with Fido and take a short break while you take in the skyline. From the grove, the trail begins to descend and eventually splits into three paths. Keep left to cut your hike short and return to the trailhead, or continue straight to complete the full loop.

The Elysian Park West Loop is super pawpular among LA's furry residents, so expect to share it with other canines and their humans, especially on Saturday mornings. Practice good trail petiquette by always keeping your pooch on a leash and cleaning up after them. For a fun hike with puptacular views of the valley, you can't go wrong with the Elysian Park West Loop!