As summer gives way to fall and the hiking season draws to a close in most parts of the country, outdoor enthusiasts in Southern California have much to be thankful for.
Every season is hiking season in the Los Angeles area, but summer is generally the least amenable time for hikers. If you’re looking for great hiking trails to check out with your dog, friends, or family, here are five highly rated hikes within a 30-minute drive of AMLI Lex on Orange.
Beaudry Loop
Less than five miles from AMLI Lex on Orange, the Beaudry Loop is an accessible wonderland for hikers. The well-maintained trail spans almost six miles, offers stunning views of the Verdugo mountains and the Los Angeles Basin, and is almost never crowded. Leashed dogs can accompany you on a Beaudry Loop hike.
Sturtevant Falls
Long a popular Southern California hiking destination, Sturtevant Falls is a natural treasure located just outside of Pasadena. An easy, four-mile hiking trail guides you from the Chantry Flat trailhead to Sturtevant Falls. Dogs are allowed on the Sturtevant Falls trail, just a 20-minute drive from AMLI Lex on Orange.
Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop
If the Sturtevant Falls hike sounds nice but you’re feeling more ambitious, give the Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop a shot. The ten-mile loop takes you to Sturtevant Falls, and then continues uphill. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the San Gabriels. You’ll also get a good feel for the natural habitat of the area, as the trail is lined by dozens of indigenous plants, shrubs, flowers, and trees.
The trail and park are dog- and family-friendly. If you’d like to enjoy the park in relative seclusion, overnight at the campground and explore early in the morning before day visitors arrive. Be sure to stop at the Adams Pack Station for a free map of the area.
Glendale Peak
For recreational hikers, the Glendale Peak trail at Griffith Park is nothing short of ideal. The dog-friendly trail is very well maintained and offers excellent views, especially following rainstorms. At three miles, it takes just over an hour. In addition to being close to downtown Glendale apartments, the trail has several access points. Basically, this is a short, accessible hike that you can squeeze in before or after work on a weekday. Few people are fortunate to live so close to a hike like this. If you live in AMLI Lex on Orange, you can get to the Glendale Peak trail head in less than ten minutes.
Monrovia Canyon Falls
Rounding out our list of dog and family-friendly hikes near your Glendale apartment is Monrovia Canyon Falls. At just under six miles, this nature trail will give you a good workout without taking too much of your time. The trail is well-marked, and considered relatively easy to hike. The 30-foot waterfall that serves as the hike’s destination flows year-round, as does the creek you’ll walk along for much of the trail.
Hiking is an excellent way to reconnect with nature and get fit. If it’s been a while since you last took to the trail, plan an outing to one of these hikes in the near future. One of the most effective strategies to Live Life + Love Life is to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.
What’s your favorite Southern California hike?
View All Posts by Jason Ernst