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Trail Run to Beacon Hill

Los Angeles, California

5.0/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

3.2 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Spencer Williams

Stop attempting to run on the overcrowded streets of LA and discover the beauty of Griffith park, while running on the trail to Beacon Hill. At a little over 3 miles, running the trail to Beacon Hill is a great workout for the day, or just a warm up for the miles of connecting trails.

The starting point for your run is at the Griffith Park Southern Railroad. From the parking lot walk east crossing Crystal Springs Drive and find the Coolidge Hiking Trail. Begin running up Coolidge Trail toward Upper Beacon Trail making sure to stay straight at the first intersection (0.2 miles). You will pass a golf course driving range on your right before coming to a second intersection (0.6 miles). Turn right and continue to follow Coolidge Trail for 0.7 miles to the 5-points, from here turn right to connect with Upper Beacon Trail, culminating with Beacon Hill just 650 feet ahead. 

Beacon Hill was once, as the name suggests, the home of a large light beacon. Placed there in the early 1900's, it was used to help pilots land at the old Grand Central Airport in Glendale (the main airport before LAX opened). There is no longer any trace of the light that once warned incoming pilots of the Griffith Park peaks, but the view is no less fantastic.  

Now at the top of Beacon Hill you will now have run 1.6 miles ascending over 600 feet in the process. From the top you can relax and enjoy views of downtown LA and Glendale, the LA River, and downtown Burbank with the Verdugo Mountains towering behind. 

From here you can either return the way you came, totaling 3.2 miles, or continue onto one of the many other trails Griffith Park has to offer via the 5-points intersection.     

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Features

Fitness
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Reviews

Did this trail using my hiking sticks. Nowadays, I feel better when I hike solo to have these with me in case I encounter urban wildlife. Griffith Park has been known to have many coyotes, so be on the lookout. They won’t hurt you, but if you have a little dog in tow, it would be best to be aware of what’s around you.

Awesome hike

We did this hike for Xmas sunrise and it was well worth the 4am wake up call and night hike

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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