Full coverage: L.A. Walks

May 26, 2012

Upper Fanklin Canyon Reservoir

I only recently discovered this hidden country-in-the-city hiking spot, set below Mulholland Drive, west of Coldwater Canyon, and just minutes from Beverly Hills or Studio City. Although less well known than nearby Runyon or Fryman canyons, it may look familiar on your first visit: Bits of TV shows, such as Bonanza," and movies, such as "It Happened One Night," were shot here.

April 28, 2012

L.A. Walks

Southwest Museum / Eldred stairs

You don't have to fight the crowds in Santa Monica Canyon to get a great stairway workout. You can hike the historic wooden Eldred stairs in Highland Park and get great city and mountain views in the bargain.

March 24, 2012

Hollenbeck Park / Boyle Heights

A gentle, flat walk in an urban setting, this is an East L.A. oasis in the midst of historic Boyle Heights, filled with old city history and fine downtown views. It's a popular weekend destination for local families for Saturday strolling or Sunday picnicking.

January 2, 2012

Radio Hill

This is an unexpectedly bucolic walk through city-center neighborhoods unknown even to most Los Angeles natives. It offers great downtown views and unlikely encounters with nature and history.

December 5, 2011

Malibu's Sandstone Peak

If you're up for a long walk in the Malibu hills that features ocean and city views and varying terrain, head for the Sandstone Peak trail head.

November 7, 2011

Beachwood Canyon and the Hollywood sign

Along the way are fantastic views of the Hollywood Reservoir, some famous homes and a visit to some of the area's secret public staircases.

October 3, 2011

Will Rogers State Park

This is a casual, low-impact mountain hike that begins and ends in a scenic, historic spot ideal for weekend picnics and perfect for wowing out-of-town guests.

2:25 PM PDT, September 6, 2011

Rancho Palos Verdes, Del Cerro Park

Sure, it's a little tough, but the rewards are worth the sweat: classic coastal chaparral, views all the way to Santa Catalina Island and a sweet breeze.

11:32 AM PDT, August 22, 2011

The Arroyo Seco in Pasadena

This is a lovely country-in-the-city walk, flat and undemanding, offering rare views of the untamed river -- less than five minutes from Old Town Pasadena.