New Things To Do In La – Your Guide To Unforgettable Urban Wilderness
Let’s be honest. When you think of Los Angeles, your mind probably jumps to Hollywood stars, sprawling freeways, and sun-drenched beaches. It’s easy to believe the city is just a concrete jungle, a place where nature takes a backseat to urban sprawl.
But what if I told you that’s only half the story? What if I promised to show you a version of LA that most visitors—and even many locals—never see? A place of rugged mountains, hidden waterfalls, and wild coastlines, all waiting to be explored.
This guide is your key to unlocking that other LA. We’ll go beyond the tourist traps and dive into the real wild heart of the city, covering everything from challenging summit hikes and coastal kayaking to the essential gear and safety tips you need to adventure confidently. This is your ultimate New things to do in LA guide for the outdoor enthusiast.
Beyond the Pavement: Why LA is a Secret Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Los Angeles is uniquely positioned at the convergence of several ecosystems. You have the Pacific Ocean to the west, the towering San Gabriel Mountains to the east, and the Santa Monica Mountains cutting right through the city. This creates a stunning variety of landscapes accessible within a short drive.
Exploring these areas offers incredible benefits of New things to do in LA beyond just a good workout. It’s a chance to decompress from the city’s energy, challenge yourself physically, and connect with a surprisingly resilient natural world.
From shady canyons to sun-blasted peaks, the sheer diversity means there’s an adventure waiting for every skill level. You just need to know where to look.
Coastal Exploration: Kayaking and Hiking the Pacific Edge
The LA coastline is more than just a place to lay down a towel. It’s a dynamic environment offering rugged trails and rich marine life. Getting out on the water or hiking the bluffs provides a perspective of the city you simply can’t get from the shore.
Sea Kayaking in Malibu and Palos Verdes
Paddling through the kelp forests off the coast is like entering another world. You can explore sea caves, watch for dolphins, and get an incredible view of the coastal cliffs. This is one of the most refreshing new things to do in LA on a warm day.
For this adventure, you’ll want a proper sea kayak, not a recreational one, for stability in ocean swells. Always wear your PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and bring a bilge pump. If you’re new to sea kayaking, book a tour with a local outfitter who can provide gear and guidance.
Hiking a Section of the Trans-Catalina Trail
Just an hour-long ferry ride from the mainland, Santa Catalina Island feels a world away. For a serious adventure, tackle a section of the 38.5-mile Trans-Catalina Trail. This multi-day trek offers breathtaking ocean vistas, challenging climbs, and encounters with the island’s famous bison.
This requires serious planning. You’ll need camping reservations, hiking permits, and a solid backpacking setup, including a reliable pack like an Osprey Atmos AG 65, sturdy hiking boots, and a water filter. This is a challenging but deeply rewarding experience.
Sustainable Tide Pooling at Leo Carrillo State Park
For a more relaxed coastal adventure, explore the tide pools at Leo Carrillo State Park. This is a perfect example of eco-friendly New things to do in LA. The key is to practice observation without interaction.
Go during low tide to see sea stars, anemones, and crabs in their natural habitat. Remember the number one rule of tide pooling: never touch or remove the wildlife. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the rocks are incredibly slippery.
Summiting the City: Unforgettable Hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains
The San Gabriel Mountains form a dramatic, rugged backdrop to the city. This range offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking in Southern California. Learning how to New things to do in LA often starts with tackling one of these incredible trails.
The Bridge to Nowhere Bungee Jump & Hike
This adventure combines a 10-mile round-trip hike with a massive adrenaline rush. The trail follows the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, involving multiple water crossings, before arriving at a lone bridge deep in the wilderness where you can bungee jump.
You don’t have to jump to enjoy the hike, but it makes for a wild story. Wear trail runners that drain well, like the Salomon Speedcross, and be prepared to get your feet wet. This is truly one of the most unique adventures in the region.
Climbing Mount Baldy (Mount San Antonio)
At 10,064 feet, Mount Baldy is the highest peak in Los Angeles County. Reaching the summit is a badge of honor for local hikers. The most popular route via the Devil’s Backbone trail is exposed and thrilling, but not for the faint of heart.
A major challenge here is the altitude and rapidly changing weather. One of the common problems with New things to do in LA at this elevation is underestimating the conditions. Even on a warm day in the city, the summit can be freezing and windy. In winter and spring, you’ll likely need traction devices like Kahtoola MICROspikes for icy sections.
Stargazing from Mount Wilson
After the sun sets, the adventure doesn’t have to end. The Angeles Crest Highway offers incredible opportunities for stargazing far from the city’s light pollution. Mount Wilson Observatory often hosts public viewing nights, but you can also find a safe pull-off and enjoy the cosmos on your own.
Bring a headlamp with a red-light setting, like a Petzl Actik Core, to preserve your night vision. Pack warm layers, a thermos of something hot, and a star chart or app to identify constellations.
Your Guide to Finding New Things to Do in LA’s Urban Canyons
Tucked away between the city’s neighborhoods are countless canyons offering shady trails, seasonal streams, and a quick escape from the urban grind. This New things to do in LA guide wouldn’t be complete without highlighting these accessible gems.
Exploring the Grotto Trail in Malibu
This short but fun hike in the Santa Monica Mountains leads down into a narrow canyon that ends at a serene, cave-like grotto. The final section requires some light rock scrambling, making it feel like a true adventure.
A great New things to do in LA tip is to visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. The cool, shaded grotto is the perfect reward on a warm day.
Discovering the Ruins of the Old LA Zoo
For a quirky hike that blends nature and history, head to Griffith Park. The trail to the old, abandoned zoo enclosures is an easy walk that lets you explore the stone caves and rusted cages from the original Los Angeles Zoo.
It’s an accessible, fascinating spot that feels worlds away from the bustling city just below, and it’s perfect for beginner adventurers or those looking for a less strenuous day out.
Chasing Waterfalls at Eaton Canyon
Eaton Canyon Natural Area is home to a popular 40-foot waterfall. The hike involves multiple stream crossings and some rock hopping, making for a fun and engaging trip. However, its popularity is also its biggest challenge.
To ensure a good experience and practice sustainable New things to do in LA, check the park’s website before you go, as a reservation system is often in place to manage crowds. Always pack out everything you bring in to help keep this beautiful place pristine.
Essential Tips and Best Practices for LA Outdoor Adventures
Adventuring in LA comes with a unique set of challenges. Success and safety hinge on good planning and respecting the environment. Following these New things to do in LA best practices will make your trips smoother and more enjoyable.
Navigating LA Traffic to the Trailhead
The single biggest hurdle can be getting to your adventure. To beat the traffic, your best bet is to leave home before sunrise, especially on weekends. Alternatively, plan your bigger adventures for weekdays if your schedule allows.
Packing for Drastic Temperature Swings
It’s common for a cool, foggy morning at the coast to turn into a blazing hot afternoon in the mountains. The key is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece for warmth (like a Patagonia R1), and always carry a lightweight wind or rain shell.
Water, Water, and More Water
Southern California is an arid environment. Dehydration is a serious and common risk. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least one liter of water for every two hours of planned hiking, and more on hot days. Using a hydration reservoir like a CamelBak makes it easier to sip frequently.
Wildlife Awareness: Rattlesnakes and Mountain Lions
Yes, there is wildlife in these mountains, and you need to be aware. Stay on the trail and watch where you step to avoid rattlesnakes. Never hike with headphones in both ears so you can hear your surroundings.
Mountain lion encounters are extremely rare, but if you see one, do not run. Make yourself look as large as possible, make loud noises, and slowly back away. Your knowledge and calm demeanor are your best tools.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Things to Do in LA
What’s the best time of year for hiking in Los Angeles?
Fall, winter, and spring are the prime seasons. The temperatures are cooler and the hills are often green from seasonal rains. Summer can be dangerously hot, especially on exposed, inland trails. If you do hike in summer, go very early in the morning and choose shady canyon trails.
Do I need any special permits for these activities?
Sometimes. Many trailheads in the Angeles National Forest require a National Forest Adventure Pass to be displayed in your vehicle. Some popular trails, like Eaton Canyon or parts of the San Gabriels, may require online reservations to manage crowds. Always check the official website for the park or forest you plan to visit before you go.
Is it safe to hike alone in the mountains around LA?
It can be, but it requires extra precaution. If you choose to hike solo, stick to well-trafficked trails, tell someone your exact route and expected return time, and carry a fully charged phone. For remote adventures, a satellite messenger like a Garmin inReach Mini is a wise investment for emergency communication.
What are some eco-friendly New things to do in LA that help preserve the trails?
The best way to help is by strictly following all seven Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out all your trash (including food scraps), staying on designated trails to prevent erosion, and respecting wildlife from a distance. You can also consider volunteering with local organizations for a trail maintenance day.
Los Angeles is so much more than its stereotypes. It’s a city with a wild, adventurous soul, offering a lifetime of exploration for those willing to look beyond the pavement.
Preparation is everything. Check the weather, know your route, pack the right gear, and always tell someone your plan. By adventuring responsibly, you can safely unlock a side of this incredible city that few ever get to experience.
So grab your daypack, fill up your water bladder, and get ready to discover the wild heart of Los Angeles. The trails are waiting.
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