It’s a sunny Saturday morning and the weather is at a perfect 72 degrees, optimal for any outdoor activity rather than going to the gym. You want to go hiking in the Los Angeles area, but the most popular hiking spots are about 40 minutes to even an hour away in Hollywood (like Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park). You contemplate if the long drive and struggle to find parking are even worth the hike you’ll get.
The answer to that dilemma may be the Westchester Fire Road (LMU Trail). Located in the small town of Westchester, this hiking trail is a hidden gem in the tight-knit neighborhood. The trail follows a bluff road below Loyola Marymount University and there are three different access points: Lincoln Boulevard, Bluff Creek Drive, and Dunbarton Avenue. Depending on the starting point, the hikes can go from 2.2 miles to 4.7 miles in distance. Most of the trail consists of unpaved, dirt roads that allows hikers to truly immerse themselves in an authentic hiking experience. On the hike, you may even encounter different animals such as wild rabbits, lizards, and birds.
The best view can be seen from the access point at Dunbarton Avenue. The entrance to the trail from this access point is hidden between two houses but open to the public. Just in the first ten feet, you get to a 180-degree panoramic view of the city of LA all the way to the Hollywood Sign. Right below the bluff, you can see creeks and gardens, as well as newly-constructed buildings for major tech companies like YouTube. After the view point, there is a long hill that descends to the main dirt trail. The hill is a perfect way to get some extra cardio into your work out. There are also various resting spots with benches that allows for some photography or stretching throughout the hike.
Whether you’re trying to work out or clear your mind from the stress of everyday life, this peaceful trail is for anyone looking for a hiking spot minus the traffic and crowds of people.
Lincoln Blvd Access: Cabora Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Bluff Creek Dr Access: 12100 West Bluff Creek Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90094
Dunbarton Ave Access: 7301 Dunbarton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045
