Griffith Park Loops

As you walk through Griffith Park's mixture of native chaparral and groomed trails, it's simple to forget that you're still in Los Angeles. Where else in the center of a city might you find canyons, caves, and coyotes? Biking is by far the most effective way to explore the 4,310 wild acres of the park. For a flat ride, stay on the perimeter and the L.A. River Bike Path; for a slight ascent, divert onto Crystal Springs Drive; or, for a truly challenging ascent up Mt. Hollywood Drive.

This is one of the Best Bike Trails In L.A. Griffith Park, arguably the nicest urban park anywhere, provides a wide range of choices for various riding styles. Take a spin around Crystal Springs Drive and Zoo Drive for a leisurely, calm ride. Add Griffith Park Drive to the loop to make it a little more challenging. These two routes are straightforward, well-paved, and feature roomy lanes or shoulders for riders to use. Although there is rarely any traffic, the park can grow crowded on the weekends.

Griffith Park includes a lot of hills, especially Mount Hollywood, which is crisscrossed with a number of rideable roads, allowing you to raise your body and heart rate while getting a good workout. A nice way to complete a round of the park is to ascend Commonwealth Avenue to the Griffith Park helipad, cross Mount Hollywood, and then descend to Vermont Canyon. There are two climbs on this course, separated by flat sections and descents. Don't forget to stop by the Observatory while you're out and about.

You should already be familiar with Griffith Park's location. In the entire park, parking is free and frequently allowed on the side of the road. Start pedaling after parking near the destination. There's always the option of riding to the park.