Discover the Best Hiking Trails in Palos Verdes

Spring is here! If you are like us, and ready to get outside and enjoy some sunshine and fresh air, we have recommendations for some of our favorite hiking trails in Palos Verdes, or even if you are feeling more adventurous and want to explore some well-known trails in Los Angeles. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, these trails offer something for everyone. Let's dive into our guide to the best hiking trails in the area.

Palos Verdes Hiking Trails

Terranea Discovery Trail

Distance: 1.9 miles (out-and-back)

Difficulty: Easy

Time: 46 minutes

The Terranea Discovery Trail is a beautiful 1.9-mile out-and-back route, perfect for beginners and families. Enjoy the coastal breeze as you meander along this picturesque path, popular for birdwatching and running. Keep your eyes peeled for stunning ocean views and native wildlife - maybe even whales and dolphins! Remember to leash your furry friends, as dogs are welcome on this trail.

Shipwreck Trail

Distance: 4.6 Miles (out-and-back)

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

If you are looking for a coastal hike/walk in Palos Verdes, check out this 4.6-mile out-and-back hike/walk leading to a historic shipwreck site. Enjoy beautiful views of the Palos Verdes coastline and sea life. Sturdy footwear, like hiking boots, is recommended as the majority of the path winds along rugged shoreline terrain, involving ample rock hopping.

Palos Verdes Estates Golf Course Loop

Distance: 4.8 Miles (loop)

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Hike the loop of the Palos Verdes Golf Course that offers a moderately challenging experience, typically taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes to traverse. It's a favorite among mountain bikers, runners, and walkers alike, yet provides opportunities for peaceful moments during off-peak hours. Accessible year-round, the trail boasts captivating vistas regardless of the season. Leashed dogs are permitted, adding to the enjoyment for pet owners.

Portuguese Bend Tide Pools

Distance: 3.7 miles (out-and-back)

Difficulty: Easy

Time: 1 hour 17 minutes

Embark on a stroll along the Portuguese Bend Tide Pools trail, spanning 3.7 miles round trip. Enjoy the serene coastal views and explore the fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life. While dogs are not permitted on this trail, it offers a tranquil escape for hikers seeking a peaceful coastal adventure.

Los Angeles Hiking Trails

Paseo Miramar

Distance: 5.5 miles (Loop)

Difficulty: Moderate

Explore the scenic Paseo Miramar trail, offering stunning ocean views and a challenging ascent to Parker Mesa Overlook. This 5.5-mile loop through Pacific Palisades parkland is a favorite among locals for its panoramic vistas and invigorating workout.

Zuma Ridge Trail

Distance: 5.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Experience the 5.5-mile out-and-back trail nestled near Malibu, California, offering a moderate challenge and averaging a 3-hour and 8-minute trek. This popular destination caters to hikers, mountain bikers, and runners, ensuring encounters with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Open year-round, the trail boasts stunning vistas regardless of the season, welcoming leashed dogs. Providing an invigorating workout, the wide and well-kept path offers limited shade, urging early starts and ample hydration. Revel in the spectacular ocean panoramas, but be mindful of weather-related closures, ensuring to verify trail status with the park before setting out.

Runyon Canyon

Distance: Variable

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Experience the vibrant energy of Runyon Canyon, a popular hiking spot renowned for celebrity sightings and sweeping views of the city. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer, this trail promises excitement and unparalleled vistas.

Parker Mesa Overlook Trail

Distance: 6.8 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Explore the 6.8-mile out-and-back trail near Topanga, California, offering moderate challenge and averaging a 3-hour journey. Popular for birding, hiking, and biking, encounter fellow enthusiasts while enjoying ocean vistas and canyon panoramas. Dogs are not allowed. Embark from Trippet Ranch to Parker Mesa Overlook, passing through oak groves and ridgelines with stunning views. The overlook offers a breathtaking panorama of the LA basin, snow-capped San Gabriel Mountains, Catalina Island, and Santa Monica coastline.

From coastal cliffs to scenic mountaintops, Palos Verdes and Los Angeles offer a diverse range of hiking experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. So, grab your hiking gear and embark on an adventure to discover the hidden gems of Southern California's natural landscape.