Planning an adventure in LA? Looking for a few COVID-friendly outdoor activities? You might not associate LA with the great outdoors, but there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to keep you entertained here!
- Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the most famous natural beauty spots in LA, stretching an impressive 4, 210 acres of rich greenery, picnic spots, and landscaped parkland. The park is home to many Californian native plants, including species of walnut, oak, and mahogany. There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Griffith Park, including horseback riding, hiking, and biking. Keen hikers will certainly enjoy tackling the rugged hills and exploring the wild terrain. Horse riders have marked trails, and are welcome at all levels from beginner to advanced.
- Eaton Canyon
Eaton Canyon begins close to Eaton Saddle, part of the Angeles National Forest. One of the most beautiful sites to see at Eaton Canyon is the waterfall, tumbling from low cliffs at the beginning of the trail. The pool is safe for swimming, and many hikers do! Hikers will undoubtedly have lots of fun exploring the terrain around Eaton Canyon Falls. Make sure you don’t forget your camera to capture a few snaps of the stunning waterfall and forest. Eaton Canyon is certainly one of the best day trips in Los Angeles.
- Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica is approximately an 18 min drive outside of LA, also accessible by train. You’ll find 3.5 miles of soft white sands, the beautiful sea, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can get involved with a game of volleyball or take a bike ride; you’ll also find watersports and wellness centers. There’s a vintage carousel (from 1922) and the Ferris Wheel (it’s even solar-powered)! Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the famous ‘Muscle Beach.’ Back in the 1930s- 50s, keen bodybuilders would gather here, drawing big crowds. There’s free gym equipment such as balance bars and rings.
- Topanga State Park
Topanga State Park has 76 miles of inviting trails to explore, the trailhead of the park splits into the Eagle Spring loop trail, and Eagle Rock. Whether you’re exploring by bike, horseback, or on foot, the park has some really beautiful destinations. The park preserves thousands of acres of the famous Santa Monica Mountains. Hiking through the park is a once in a lifetime experience, (and you certainly won’t believe that you’re in the city anymore)!
- Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden
These beautiful grounds are a real must-see when traveling in Los Angeles. There are waterfalls, stunning trees, fish and tropical forests. Wander to your heart’s content in crescent farm, explore the aquatic garden, or the famous rose garden. The Arboretum is also a wildlife sanctuary, home to many mammals and reptiles, migratory birds and the famous peafowl. When you are around the wildlife, it’s important to keep 3 feet away. Over the last few years, the Arboretum has been working to restore the natural beauty of Baldwin Lake. More details about how to get involved in this cause is available on the website.
- Dockweiler Beach
Dockweiler beach is the perfect escape from the city; here you’ll find 288 acres of gorgeous sand and a great spot to swim or go fishing. Dockweiler beach has an enclosure for a protected bird called the western snowy plover. Whether you’re keen to surf, try hang gliding, or dive, you’ll certainly be entertained here. If you’re heading into Los Angeles for the day and looking for a place to keep your luggage, there are plenty of luggage storage facilities, including Radical Storage.
- Mount Baldy
Keen to get your hiking fix in the city? Then head on down to Mount Baldy. It’s also referred to as ‘Mount San Antonio,’ standing at an impressive 10,064 feet tall. If you don’t fancy hiking the whole way, there’s also a ski lift that takes you part of the way up. The ‘Devil’s Backbone’ is the easier trail, while the ‘ Baldy Bowl Ski Hut Trail’ is slightly more of a workout. The hike is estimated to take around 6-8 hours in total. As with any hike, ensure that you stay hydrated and wear appropriate footwear.
While many outdoor parks and beaches are now open in LA, it’s best to check COVID-19 restrictions and opening hours before planning a trip. It’s also important to follow social distancing policies to keep yourself and others safe.
