Beginner Hiking Los Angeles

Sierra Club Griffith Park Tuesday Evening Hikes

**If you don't have a current waiver card, please come early (\~6:40pm on) to sign the required waiver form ("participation agreement") and get your *PINK waiver card*, good until the end of 2026.** Come and enjoy a great evening of hiking and conversation with fellow hikers. These conditioning hikes range in level from fairly easy (level 1) through moderate (levels 2 and 3) to advanced hikes (levels 4, 5, and 6). All levels have hills; terrain is sometimes steep with uneven footing. Because hikers are expected to maintain the pace set by hike leaders, newcomers should not hike above level 3 and may wish to start at level 2. >>>**On Tuesday & Thursday evenings, we offer \*simultaneous\* hikes at a variety of levels.** **While some levels may not be offered on a given evening, we try to cover a range of levels.**<<< Hikes are led by trained leaders and last approximately 2 hrs. Hikes begin at 7pm; newcomers should get there early to fill out a waiver and should carry the waiver card with them on the hikes. There are usually 30-60 people at the hikes. **What to bring:** Bring water and a light jacket in case it gets cold. Hiking boots/shoes or other shoes with good traction are necessary for the harder hikes (levels 3-5) and are strongly encouraged for all hikes; tennis shoes with good tread may be sufficient for the more moderate hikes (levels 1 & 2). Flashlights are optional; many leaders discourage their use except in emergencies. If flashlights are used, red lights are preferable as they interfere less with night vision. Please, no radios or other sound-producing devices that others can hear. If earbuds are used, please leave one out to maintain awareness of surroundings. Leashed, well-behaved dogs are at the discretion of the leader. This is a front country outing. **Contagious disease considerations:** Note that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people may be present; everyone is encouraged to keep their distance and respect each others' need to do so. Please do not attend if you are ill or have reason to think you might have a contagious disease. **If you test positive for a contagious disease within 3 days of a hike, please let us know through Meetup or by emailing GPNighthikes at gmail dot com.** Check the weather [https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/griffith-park/90027/hourly-weather-forecast/2626762](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/griffith-park/90027/hourly-weather-forecast/2626762) **Directions** to Merry-Go-Round Lot #2 (also known as the Upper Merry-Go-Round parking lot): From Los Feliz Blvd just west of the 5, take Crystal Springs north into the park; you’ll soon pass a freeway onramp. After around a mile, you’ll come to a 4-way intersection, with the Ranger station on your right. Make a left (going west). At the top of the road you’re forced to turn right into the (unlit) lot #1. Drive through the lot and along the road that leaves the opposite corner. You’ll soon come to lot #2, which is lit. The Sierra Club meets at the far (north) end of the lot, by the stone steps. Going north on the 5 from Downtown LA, you can also get off at the Griffith Park exit and take Crystal Springs going north, following the directions above. Other routes go from near the Zoo or from Travel Town. You can get directions from this link: [https://goo.gl/q7QTtb ](https://goo.gl/q7QTtb).

Griffith Park Hike to Cedar Grove

This hike is 4.6 miles/1224 ft ascent is known to the regulars as the "backyard hike" and it is NOT a Beginner Hike. Most of the elevation gain is in a short period of time. The trail on the steep ascent is hard to find, so a little bit of adventure is required for this hike. This hike is 120 minutes and NO ANIMALS ALLOWED Legend for hikes: These hikes run year 'round every Tuesday. In the leader's (subjective) mind, the hikes are generally easiest the first Tuesday of the month and most challenging the last Tuesday of the month, with everything progressive in between. Beginners are encouraged to come to the first Tuesday of the month. Beginners will receive doses of encouragement the second Tuesday of the month to keep up if unable. The 3-4-5 Tuesday's of the month it is expected anyone that can't keep up with the leader will turn back The fine print: Wildlife (snakes, bobcats, mountain lions etc) seen in the park, be aware of your surroundings and stay alert at all times. Bring Along: Hiking boots and at least 1 Liter Water. Layered clothing in case it's cold. Long pants in case it's hot, to prevent being bitten by insects. Mosquito and tic spray (available at REI) are recommended. No bright (white) flashlights. Red, Blue flashlights are OK. If you get to the lot after we meet, Sierra Club hikes start at 7:00PM on the opposite end of the lot. We do start ON TIME, no matter how much traffic is on the freeways, inside the park, including if our parking lots are being used by movie crews. Allow yourself enough time for any unexpected surprises. From 134 Freeway: (Note, if you are not familiar with Griffith Park Drive, this is a dark single lane route. You are better off taking I5 directions) Exit Forest Lawn. (If coming from Westbound go straight, from Eastbound, Go Right). Make a left on Zoo Drive. Make a right hand turn on Griffith Park Drive. Road weaves through Griffith Park. Continue on road until you hit Crystal Springs Road. Make a right hand turn on Crystal Springs. There's no street sign at the next stop sign. Look for the sign in the median stating "Merry-Go-Round Parking" with an arrow, follow the arrow. Continue up the road. The road forces you to make a sharp right hand turn into a parking lot, this is Lot 1. Go through the parking lot. You'll hit a small dark road (it's lit if it's daylight savings time) which will take you to Parking Lot 2. This is the parking lot where we meet. We meet next to the driveway that takes you down to parking Lot 3. From Interstate 5 (either direction) Go West on Los Feliz. Make a right on Riverside drive into Griffith Park. Go two stop signs and make a left turn. Continue up the road. The road forces you to make a sharp right hand turn into a parking lot. Go through the parking lot. You'll hit a small dark road (it's lit if it's daylight savings time) for a short period of time, followed by a brightly lit lot. Park in the back of the lot (the part you entered in). Meet at the back of the lot, where the driveway to the lower part of the lot is. It's close to the "No Practice Driving Allowed" sign is. Where to meet: If you know the park well, it is Merry Go Round Lot #2, just at the path to the lower lot. (http://angeles.sierraclub.org/griffith/griffith_park_map.html) If you'd like a visual, here is a map. (http://angeles.sierraclub.org/griffith/griffith_park_map.html) CLICK (http://files.meetup.com/262967/PL#2.jpg) for Visual Map of Driving Directions from Ranger Station Put these coordinates in google maps for exact directions from your location: 34.133525,-118.284731

Crescenta View Trail to Mt Lukens Road

TGIF Full Moon Hike Harvest Moon

**## Details** **TGIF Full Moon Friday Night Hike to Mt Hollywood** **Harvest Moon** **Intermediate level - elevation gain 1200 feet.** **Pot luck dinner party at the top! Bring your favorite dish or specialty. Please bring your own plate, cup, and utensils.** **5 miles round trip - not a beginner hike however beginners have been known to make it, nonetheless. No child left behind....** **NOTICE\*****\***********************************\*****We will meet at 6:30 at the STEPS of Parking Lot #2 (the Merry Go Round parking lot) - North end of the lot.**************************** **Hike on various trails and roads to get to the top where we have picnic tables at Mt. Hollywood.** **We will share the food we bring at the top.** **This will be a 3 plus hour event. We should be back to the parking lot by 10:00 PM. OK to leave early if you know the way back.** **Dogs Ok, owners must be on a leash 🦮** **DISCLAIMER: Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.** **Lee Zebold, Eagle Lightning and Scott Hathaway** **Hike Leaders/Coordinators**

FRIDAY--Easy Night walk around Silverlake

Silverlake can be quite beautiful at night. Walk is mostly easy 2.2 miles RT around the lake. Walk is approx. 1 hour. There is short uphill on this walk--approx. 10 minutes Some members go to the local Oyster bar afterwards. **Rain will cancel walk. Dogs ok as long as on leash.** Parking: Street parking. There is more parking when you park along the lake --along W. Silverlake Dr.

Tom Sloan Saddle – 10 miles, 3000’ elevation gain

Beachwood Canyon: Fall Classic Stair Hike #1 - 2.6 mi, 2 hours

Summer is ending so let’s get out and enjoy cooler evenings, city views, architectural gems and long, steep staircases guaranteed to get your heart pumping. While exploring Beachwood Canyon's historic neighborhood (climbing up or down over 800 steps), learn about the Sierra Club's Wilderness Travel Course and train for fall backcountry trips! After such a hot summer, we can look forward to fall and the Fall Classic–go Dodgers! Meet at 2695 N Beachwood Drive 90068, in front of the Beachwood Cafe. Bring water, adventurous spirit, strong legs, and a love of stair hikes. Flashlight or headlamp suggested. No restrooms.

Beaudry Loop - Night hike, ~ 6 miles w 1,400+ elevation gain

Playa Vista-Ballona Wetlands Trail Walk, 5.5 Miles

**Event:** **Amazing 5.5 mile walk Playa vista and Ballona wetlands trail.** **Park in the park parking lot or find legal street parking. Rick will have on a safety vest 🦺** **The 5.5 mile walk is on level trails. Can get cold so dress appropriately. Bring tennis shoes, water, sun screen, head lamp or flashlight , sun protection, and a fun spirit.** **DISCLAIMER 1: In the course of the walk, you may choose to go ahead of the group leader, but by doing so, you may deviate from the intended route. In which case, you are on your own.
DISCLAIMER 2: Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.**

Explore Griffith Park

Please read this entire write up. This is a moderately strenuous hike. The hikes are about 2 hours long and about 4 miles, and those miles include steep ascents and descents, most often on single track trails. Some trails can be uneven and slippery. We move at a fairly rapid pace. but pause occasionally to enjoy the scenery, smell the flowers, and take pictures of the amazing views. No two hikes are the same, and we go all over the park. Please don't be late, as we aim to leave on time, 5:30 p.m. Good idea to arrive around 5:15 so that we can start at 5:30 p.m. Don't forget to bring water and wear good hiking shoes with lug soles. A note re time -- hike start times change occasionally, depending on the weather and the time of year. Please check the start time when you sign up, but an e-mail will be sent out whenever the time is changed. . Please be aware that Assistant Organizers, Event Hosts, and support hikers are volunteers organize hikes without compensation and assume absolutely no responsibility for you or your guests. By signing up for a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you are aware and made your guests aware of the risks, dangers, and hazards associated with any outdoor activity, and you accept, and fully assume all such risks, dangers, and hazards, and further agree to release, and discharge the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and Event Hosts from, and against any, and all liability arising from your and your guest's participation in the group activities. Please see the Meetup terms of service agreement http://www.meetup.com/terms/

Wednesday Warriors: 6.0 Mile Urban Hike South Pasadena, Fast Pace

Come join us for a FAST-paced urban hike around the winding hills and beautiful streets of peaceful South Pasadena. Enjoy the scenery, the Craftsman and Mid-Century Modern architecture, the cooler evening air, and the setting sun. **NOTE**: Before signing up, be sure to review the safety guidelines and policies below, including the 'No Crashing'/'Guests Must Also Sign Up' policy and the 'Timeframe for Cancelling an RSVP/Signup' policy. **LEVEL**: Advanced/Fast for speed (approximately 17-18 mins per mile), a few staircases, and some long street inclines, otherwise moderate plus. We are a friendly group that loves to socialize and encourages newcomers, but please note that moderate+ level of cardio fitness and fast walking speed are required. **LENGTH**: 6.0 miles, a few staircases, and some long street inclines. Elevation gain is 900ft. Approximately 2:00 hours. **SPEED**: Advanced/Fast speed of approximately 17-18 mins per mile. We will try to take a quick pause to re-group at the top of stairs and steep hills but our regulars like to keep up a good solid fast pace of about 17-18 minutes per mile. There will be no sweep, so bring your phone for navigation just in case you fall behind or want to leave early. **BRING**: Exercise outfit, workout shoes, and sufficient water. Also, be sure to bring a flashlight for when it's dark. **MEETING POINT**: We will meet at 6:00 pm in front of the South Pasadena Library (1100 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, 91030) for introductions and take off sharply at 6.05 pm. **RESTROOMS**: At the library. None along the way (unless you count any random Port-a-Potties that we might come across along the route). **PARKING**: Free street parking around the library area. Parking at your own risk. **'NO CRASHING'/'GUESTS MUST ALSO SIGN UP':** All participants MUST sign up through the Meetup app and check in with the leader upon arrival. If someone is a bringing a guest, then that guest MUST also sign up as well through the Meetup app *before* the hike if space is available. There are NO exceptions. The waitlist, if any, generally clears in order. Members with a good attendance record and a posted picture (LA Hiking Group rule) may get some priority. **CANCELLING AN RSVP/SIGNUP**: Please sign up only if you think there's a realistic chance that you will make the hike. If folks sign up and then decide that they can't make it, please be sure to change your RSVP to "Not Going" at least 24-36 hours before the scheduled time for the hike in order: (1) allow me to more accurately predict the number of participants on the hike, and (2) allow people on the waitlist to join the hike within a reasonable amount of time of the hike. Waiting until the last minute to cancel (or simply not showing up) is not fair to me and to other LA Hiking members. **PROFILE NAME AND PIC**: Be sure to update your profile to indicate at least your first name, and include a picture showing your face, per group policy. This is for your safety and to discourage non-signed-up crashers. **LIABILITY**: The organizer is an untrained and unpaid volunteer. By joining this event each member accepts full and total responsibility for knowing their limits, for all injuries and health issues, assessing all risks, for any material losses, for falling behind, and for getting lost. Each member fully releases the host from any and all liability.

Runyon Canyon Conditioning Workout hike

This is an Intermediate/advanced hike for physical conditioning to prep for harder mountain hikes. There is some steep downhill requiring hiking shoe tread. The uphill is gradual but constant. Pace is Intermediate/advanced. You can do one loop and exit or multiple. I usually do 3. Each takes about 50 minutes. I normally arrive at 8:55am. We will leave at 9 am sharp. MEETING PLACE : I will be right inside the green iron gate near the water fountain just off Mulholland Parking : parking lot near entrance gate. More parking on Mulholland but pay attention to signs. RAIN CANCELS This is a loop I do weekly. Each loop is approximately 2 miles/50 minutes. You can do as few or as many as you want. We'll go down the fire road to East ridge then come up West ridge fire road. I usually do 3 laps. You can exit at the Mulholland gate after any lap. Our Policy: Profile photo: Anyone interested in joining this event must have a profile photo showing his/her face. This is a requirement of L.A. Hiking. Without it, you will not be allowed to sign up for an event. Waiting list priority: People who hike with with L.A. Hiking regularly will be given priority when they are on the waiting list. Advanced hikes: Anyone interested in participating in advanced hikes (>3,000' elevation gain or distance > 10 miles or Difficulty Level > = 7) will be subject to prescreening before his/her name will be added to the list. Therefore, interested hiker must share with the event host his/her recent hiking background to establish proficiency before his/her name will be added to the list. Guests are not allowed on advanced hikes. Early departure: If a hiker needs to be separated from the group for any reason, he/she must inform the event host. Not knowing a hiker's where about may prompt the event host to report a hiker's missing to proper authority for further actions. No show: If you sign up for an event but did not show up, you will be removed from the next event you sign up. No minor: Meetup user agreement and our liability waiver can not be agreed to by a minor. Therefore, you and your guest must be over 18 to participate in our events. No drug: Zero tolerance for all illegal drug use. *** Warning: If you have prior medical condition or a family history of illnesses pertaining to heart, lungs, brain, etc. that can be aggravated by heat and physical exertion, this is not the hike for you. If you have never done a hike of this distance or difficulty before, this hike will be very difficult for you. It may well be your death march. The mountain is not going anywhere. We will schedule this event again in the future. Do it when your mind and body are ready. Hiking is a recreation, not a suicide mission. Release of Liability: The organizer (me) of this trip is a volunteer and is not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. Each person who signs up for a trip/hike/or outing is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests. By signing up for this trip, or any other event organized by me, you are acknowledging that you are aware and have made your guests aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the organizer (me) of this hike from and against any and all liability arising from your and your guest's participation in the group activities. L.A. Hiking, its organizer, assistant organizers, event organizers are not responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur carpooling to and from this event, or for any injuries or accidents incurred before, during, and after this event. If you sign up or participate in an event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries and damages arising from, as a result of and associated with this event. Read less