It’s that time of year when the rain in Los Angeles has sprouted up an abundance of greenery blanketing our hiking trails with bold shades of green. Lush undulating hills boast dreamy views that draw you in, leaving you connected to the beauty all around you. January through March is the best time to see Los Angeles Super Green Hiking Trails. So, check your calendar, grab your friends and family, and set out on one or all of these stunningly beautiful trails.
Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Natural Preserve: Victory Trailhead
Address: Plug “Victory Trailhead” into your phone’s GPS. It will say “Victory Trailhead: Victory Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA”
Situated in the San Fernando Valley, 2,983 acres of open space offers an extensive trail system with jaw-dropping expansive panoramic views of rolling hills. The winter rain transforms dull brown vegetation into lush inviting greenery. If you want impressive unobstructed views of seemingly endless rolling green hills, this is your trail. The hills are gentle and easy to walk, with no steep inclines.
While there is a trail sign offering hiking information, I prefer to head up the path all the way to left for 1.5 miles and turn back for an additional 1.5 miles. The interconnected trail system seems endless. If you prefer to continue on longer, feel free. I use my Apple watch to keep track of my miles.
Trail Info
- Free street parking is available before the gate.
- There is a parking lot at the trailhead that costs $3 in cash and is monitored, even on week days.
- Be prepared with water, there is no shade.
- Watch out for wildlife, especially coyotes.
Serrania Ridge Trail
Address: 20726 Wells Dr, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Serrania Ridge Trail is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains and boasts stunning views of the San Fernando Valley. This trail has steep inclines and is narrow but not overgrown. Serrania Ridge Trail is moderately challenging due to its steep hills however, there are no dangerous drop offs so, it is generally safe for children who can make the trek. You will find yourself surrounded by quiet, peaceful rolling hills making this trail a serene choice for those who seek a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Trail Info:
- There is ample parking lot and street parking along with restrooms.
- After you park, look for the trail to the left of the playground, up a dirt hill.
- Hiking to the bench and back will give you a two mile out and back hike.
Calabasas Stairs
Address: 25169 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302
A hidden staircase is nestled in between the quiet hills of Calabasas, CA. Buzzing cars zip down the freeway paradoxically adjacent to the hiking trail leading to the serene stretch of land that is home to the Calabasas Hidden Stairs. Once enveloped in the undulating hills leading to this concealed set of steps, sounds shift to birds chirping happy songs and the sporadic swoosh of the gentle breeze against the brush, leading you to forget your close proximity to city life.
After making your way through the .6-mile hike and climb 375 steps to the top of the Calabasas Stairs, an expansive view pleasantly greets you, making the perfect excuse to catch your breath as you take in the extraordinary and picturesque Calabasas hills outlook.
Trail Info
- Calabasas Road dead ends into a trail head. Once you see the end of the road, do a U-turn and park along the side of the street.
- You will want to start the trail on your right after you turn around and park. There is a paved driveway with a trailhead sign marking “Anza Loop Trail,” “New Millennium Trail,” and “Bark Park Trailhead.”
- Walk up the paved driveway until it ends and the trail begins. You will know you are in the right place when you see the sign that says “Trail” on your right. Pretty simple!
Point Dume Nature Preserve- Malibu
Address: 7928 Westward Beach Rd Malibu, CA 90265
Point Dume Nature Preserve is a breathtaking interconnected set of short trails that wrap around the Pacific Ocean lending itself to expansive views of the coastline. During the winter months after a good amount of rain, the abundance of low-lying vegetation transforms into beautiful vibrant shades of green.
Pack binoculars to see pods of dolphins lunging above the distant waves. As your make your way around the shoreline, you have the option of descending the 193 stairs to Big Dume Beach. Check the tide times and plan your visit during low tide – when the ocean gives way to tide pools and a walkable shoreline.
Trail Info:
- Parking at the upper lots is limited and tricky. Be aware that the lots are highly ticketed, even though there appear to be no signs indicating you can’t park there. I got a $71 ticket. The best option is to park by the beach with the address provided and park in the beach lot. This provides access to walk up the hill to the interconnecting Point Dume trails.
- The trails loop around the ocean and connect you to a long set of stairs leading to a beach that can be accessed during low tide.
Let me know in the comments which trails you checked out this super green winter season in Los Angeles! I can’t wait to hear from you.
Xx
Jill
