Los Angeles has a number of parks for any feeling, fitness level, or amount of time. Here are a few different parks to try depending on your day:
A lovely stroll…
Echo Park Lake [751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026] is a charming little park where the main attraction is a lake, but a closer look will reveal there is a lot to love here. The palms amongst the city skyline in the distance give this park such a cool California feel.
The trail around the lake doesn’t take much more than ten minutes to walk, but the details here are wonderful. The plentiful lotus flowers add a serious splash of color.
A goose with some serious character befriended us and wagged its tail which gave us a good laugh.
There were some beautiful oriental decorations scattered about.
If you visit at the right time you can rent a paddleboat or buy some snacks from vendors pushing their carts. This would be a relaxing place to lay out with a book and spend an afternoon.
A great hike…
Runyon Canyon [2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046] has a loop trail that rolls through the urban wilderness of the desert hills.
Only two blocks from Hollywood Blvd, parking can be a hassle, but if you circle enough you will find something. This park is very popular with dog walkers, so feel free to bring fido along for your hike.
Keep your eyes open for some speckled street art.
After a short time of hiking you will receive outstanding views of the city, the whole loop is approximately 3.5 miles.
This is a moderate hike with a few steep sections, but lots of reprieve making for a very pleasant experience.
A serious workout…
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook [6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232] though not technically in LA is a great park to visit if you are looking to exercise. Find free parking on the street, or pay $6 in the lot. The scene here is filled with people who are climbing up the strenuous stairs trail just over a mile long with yoga mats strapped to their backs.
If you take a moment to wipe the sweat off your brow you may notice some beautiful wildflowers.
Once you reach the summit you’ll find people jump roping or doing push ups. Along with the great workout you get a fantastic view of the city.
Check out the informational displays and visitor’s center to learn more about the ecology.