Los Angeles isn’t just a city of glitz and glam; it’s also a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore on foot. With its sprawling parks, dramatic hills, and scenic coastlines, LA offers a variety of hiking and trekking tours that reveal hidden corners and iconic sights alike. Whether you’re after a challenging climb or a gentle ramble with spectacular views, there’s a route for you. Many tours combine history, nature, and local culture, making each experience more meaningful than just a workout. If you’ve ever wanted to stand beneath the Hollywood Sign or walk through the colorful streets of Silver Lake, this guide will help you choose the right tour.
In this list, you’ll find everything from guided hikes to private adventures, with options suited for all fitness levels and interests. Some tours focus on famous landmarks like Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign, while others take you along coastal trails or through hidden urban staircases. All tours are designed to give a genuine sense of LA’s landscape, history, and character. Whether you prefer a group outing or a private experience, the options below are your best bets for getting outside in LA.
1. Griffith Observatory Hike: Guided Tour through Griffith Park
At number 1, the Griffith Observatory Hike offers a 2.5-hour trek through Griffith Park, covering approximately 3.5 miles. Your guide will lead you through Hollywood Hills, sharing stories about the park’s Hollywood connections and local lore. The route rewards hikers with panoramic views of Los Angeles, Hollywood, and the San Fernando Valley, with plenty of photo stops, including the iconic Hollywood Sign. The tour finishes at the Griffith Observatory, where you can explore space exhibits or simply soak in the city views. Daily departures at 10am and sunset give flexibility for morning or evening adventures. With a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, this tour combines easy terrain with high-impact sights. Good for all fitness levels, but be prepared for some uphill sections.
Bottom Line: An accessible and engaging hike that blends stunning scenery with Hollywood stories, ideal for first-time visitors and those wanting a solid overview.
2. Hollywood Sign Hiking Tour to Griffith Observatory
At number 2, the Hollywood Sign Hiking Tour to Griffith Observatory offers a peaceful escape with lesser-known viewpoints of the Sign and LA skyline. For around $39, this 2-hour tour features a guided walk through Griffith Park that includes visits to the Ennis House, Greek Theatre, and the Hollywood Sign itself. The guide shares stories about Hollywood legends and park history, making this a well-rounded experience. The tour culminates with a photo stop at the Sign and a visit to the observatory, adding a dose of science and cityscape. Guests praise the engaging guides like Matt and Gregory, noting how their local insights make the experience memorable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of cultural sites and outdoor scenery, with a focus on tranquil viewpoints and storytelling.
3. Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine
Number 3 on our list is the Malibu Vineyard Hike, a gentle 2-hour trek through scenic vineyards. For just $49 per person, you’ll explore private ranches, view Chumash cave paintings, and learn about local history from knowledgeable guides. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to take stunning photos of Malibu’s rolling hills and vineyards, plus sample regional wines at a family-owned vineyard. Guests mention guides like Maddi and Mitch as engaging and informative, making the hike both fun and educational. It’s ideal for beginners who appreciate wine tasting paired with scenic views.
Bottom Line: Combines nature, history, and wine in a relaxed setting, perfect for those who want a touch of luxury while exploring the California coast.
4. LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike
At number 4, the LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike offers a rare glimpse into LA’s lesser-known natural and urban landscape. This 3-hour tour takes you along the historic LA River, explaining its ecological and infrastructural significance, and explores hidden staircases and neighborhoods. Led by expert guides like Chris, you’ll discover stories about urban ecology, transportation, and local culture not found in typical guides. Unique to this tour is the combination of urban exploration and ecological education, making it appealing if you’re interested in Los Angeles’ ongoing transformation. Reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the extraordinary sites encountered.
Bottom Line: A one-of-a-kind experience for travelers who want to combine nature, history, and city life into one walk.
5. Griffith Park & Hollywood Sign Sunset Hike
Number 5 is the Sunset Hike in Griffith Park, which takes you to Mount Hollywood for spectacular sunset views. Over approximately 3 hours, the tour covers about 3 miles, with stops at the Greek Theatre, Bird Sanctuary, and the Hollywood Sign. Your guide will share stories about the land’s past and present, providing context for the sights. Guests love the beautiful vistas and photo opportunities—especially at sunset. The tour offers a reusable water bottle and a mix of easy and moderate terrain, recommended for those comfortable with a bit of uphill walking.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a comprehensive tour with a focus on Los Angeles’ natural beauty and history.
6. Hike the Secret Painted Stairs and Visit a Local Bakery
Number 6 features the Secret Painted Stairs and Local Bakery Tour, a 1.5 to 2-hour walk through Silver Lake’s artsy streets. This tour is perfect for photography lovers, as it visits the “world’s most Instagrammed stairs” on Micheltorena Street, along with murals and charming neighborhood streets. Guides share stories about the area’s history and local artists, and the tour often ends with a visit to a beloved bakery. It’s a manageable walk with plenty of photo ops, making it great for those who want a short but visually rich experience. Reviewers praise guide Chris for his knowledge and charm.
Bottom Line: A fun, artsy outing that combines street art, neighborhood history, and good food in a small-group setting.
7. 3 Hour Camel Trek into the Forest and Ranch in California
Number 7 is perhaps the most unusual, a Camel Trek in California. Over three hours, your group will ride camels into a forest, enjoy a picnic with pizza and strawberries, and relax by a campfire. It’s a family-friendly, hands-on experience with over 200 animals at the ranch, making it perfect for animal lovers and families looking for something totally different. The guide’s warmth and the animals’ friendliness earn high praise, with many saying it’s a memorable, one-of-a-kind activity. It’s a splurge at $875 for the group, but the unique experience justifies the price for many.
Bottom Line: A quirky, memorable adventure for those seeking a mix of outdoor activity and animal interaction away from city streets.
8. Private Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike
Number 8 on our list is the Private Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike. This 3-hour tour caters to small groups wanting an intimate experience, walking through Hollywood Hills to get the closest views of the Sign. Your guide will share stories about early Hollywood, movie making, and the area’s wild past. The tour hits scenic spots like Lake Hollywood Park and Mount Lee Drive, ending with great photo opportunities of the Sign in the background. Although pricier at $199, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, comprehensive experience. Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and stories that bring the city’s glamor to life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, close-up encounter with the Hollywood Sign and a personal storytelling experience.
9. Private Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike – Closest Possible View
Number 9 offers an even more exclusive experience with the Closest Hollywood Sign Private Hike. For $59 per person, this 3-hour guided walk takes you to the nearest vantage points of the Sign, including Lake Hollywood Park and scenic Griffith Park routes. The focus here is on getting an up-close and personal view while enjoying sweeping city vistas. The small-group size means plenty of personalized attention and the chance to work up a sweat hiking the canyon. Many reviewers appreciate the personal touch and scenic stops, making this a top pick for sign enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A private, intimate hike with unbeatable views, perfect for travelers craving a personal adventure and great photos.
10. Private LA Coast Tour with Beach Day or Scenic Hike
Number 10 provides a full-day, customizable experience with the Private LA Coast Tour. For $280 per person, you can tailor the day to include a scenic hike or relax at beaches like Venice, Santa Monica, or Point Dume. The tour offers flexible stops such as Venice Canals, Muscle Beach, and the Venice Sign, with time to enjoy the coast’s beauty and energy. It’s ideal for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity and seaside relaxation, with the convenience of private transportation and personalized planning. Guests love the flexibility and variety this tour provides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a custom day combining coastal scenery, light activity, and downtime on the beach.
11. Hollywood Sign : Hiking to the Sign with a French Tour Guide
Number 11 is a French-guided Hollywood Sign hike. Over 3 hours, you’ll explore Griffith Park, retracing the sign’s history from its origins, while enjoying 360° views of LA. This tour offers a linguistic twist, appealing to French speakers or those interested in cultural exchange. It’s a moderate hike that provides a taste of Hollywood’s glamour combined with storytelling. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s friendliness and clear explanations. The $65 price point makes it a good value for those seeking an engaging, culturally enriched experience.
Bottom Line: Great for French-speaking travelers or anyone interested in a culturally flavored hike with impressive city views.
12. Los Angeles: The Original 2.5-Hour Hollywood Sign Hike
Number 12, the Original Hollywood Sign Hike, is a highly-rated, 2.5-hour walk that takes you closer to the Sign than most tours—the best for photo ops and behind-the-scenes stories. Starting at just $20.99, it’s a great value for active travelers who want a mix of scenery and history. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll walk from Lake Hollywood, around the iconic landmark, and enjoy views of the city. Reviewers highlight the guide’s friendly demeanor and the tour’s comprehensive nature.
Bottom Line: For budget-conscious travelers wanting an authentic Hollywood Sign experience, this tour offers excellent value.
13. Hike to the Hollywood Bowl
Number 13 is a 3-hour Hike to the Hollywood Bowl, starting at the famous amphitheater. It’s a 1.6-mile walk that includes steps and a route past celebrity homes. This tour combines exercise with sights of LA’s entertainment history. You’ll pass by the secret stairs and get a great view of the Hollywood Sign, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and a chance to see celebrity neighborhoods. It’s a small-group experience with a relaxed pace and opportunities to learn about LA’s musical scene.
Bottom Line: A fun, active way to combine outdoor activity with a visit to one of LA’s most famous venues.
14. Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike and Tour By Junket
Number 14, the Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike by Junket, offers a 2-hour guided trek with views of the Sign from a wide dirt trail. The route includes stops at Hollywood landmarks and scenic overlooks, providing a good overview of LA’s Hollywood Hills. The price is modest at $24, making it accessible for most budgets. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendly nature and the chance to explore some of LA’s iconic filming locations along the way. It’s suitable for those wanting a short, energetic hike with a bit of Hollywood history.
Bottom Line: An affordable option for travelers seeking a brief but engaging hike that hits key LA sights.
15. Runyon Canyon Hiking Tour
Number 15 offers a guided tour of Runyon Canyon, a favorite among locals for its easy trails and celebrity sightings. Though it has only one review with a 4-star rating, it promises to take you through 130 acres of parkland with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Downtown LA. The tour focuses on outdoor fitness and celebrity spotting, making it suitable for active travelers who enjoy a more casual walk with scenic rewards. The guide will help you discover hidden spots and share insights about Hollywood’s stars and history.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a light, social hike with the chance of spotting celebrities and enjoying LA’s outdoors.
16. Los Angeles: Hollywood Sign Adventure Hike and Tour
Finally, at number 16, this 2.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience with breathtaking views of LA from the canyon trails to the Hollywood Sign. It’s suitable for active hikers eager to get close to the Sign and explore nearby filming locations. While reviews are limited, the focus on learning about Hollywood’s stories alongside scenic hikes makes this a good choice for adventure-minded travelers. The tour provides the opportunity to see the city from behind the Hollywood Sign and learn about the area’s mysteries, including ghost stories and famous films shot nearby.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for those wanting a full outdoor experience with added storytelling and iconic views.
How to Choose Your Perfect LA Hiking Tour
The best way to select the right LA hiking adventure depends on your fitness level, time constraints, and interests. For a balanced mix of scenery and storytelling, the Griffith Observatory Guided Tour offers a great introduction with panoramic views. Those seeking a private, personalized experience might prefer the Hollywood Sign Closest View Private Hike. If your priority is up-close views of the Hollywood Sign, the Hollywood Sign Private Adventure is ideal.
Budget travelers should consider the Los Angeles: The Original Hollywood Sign Hike, which at under $21 offers excellent value. For a more leisurely coastal experience, the private LA Coast Tour provides customization and seaside relaxation.
Always check the tour times and weather conditions beforehand. Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles’s outdoor offerings are diverse, from urban staircases and scenic hills to coastal hikes and private vineyards. For those who want the classic Hollywood experience, tours like the Hollywood Sign hikes and Private Hollywood Sign Adventure deliver iconic views and stories. If you prefer a quirky adventure, the Camel Trek offers a memorable twist, while those interested in environmental history will enjoy the LA River Eco Tour.
Choosing the right tour depends on your fitness level, time available, and personal interests. All the options above provide a way to see LA from new angles—whether that’s the city’s hills, coast, or hidden cityscapes. Remember to book early, pack water and sun protection, and most importantly, enjoy the walk. Happy hiking!