Things To Do In Los Angeles: An Adventurer’S Guide To La’S Wild Side

ByEric James Updated on

Mention Los Angeles and most people picture traffic-clogged freeways, Hollywood movie sets, and sprawling concrete. It’s easy to assume the only adventures here involve navigating the 405 or spotting a celebrity. You’d agree that LA isn’t the first place that comes to mind for a true outdoor escape, right?

We promise to show you a different side of the City of Angels. Beyond the urban hum lies a rugged, wild landscape of sun-drenched mountains, hidden waterfalls, and a stunning coastline begging to be explored. This isn’t just a list; it’s your field manual for adventure.

This guide will give you the actionable intel you need to discover the best outdoor things to do in los angeles. We’ll cover everything from classic mountain hikes and coastal kayaking to sustainable exploration tips that help you leave these beautiful places better than you found them. Let’s gear up and get outside.

Beyond the Pavement: Hiking Trails for Every Skill Level

The Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains form a spectacular, accessible backyard for the entire LA basin. Lacing up your boots is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region’s raw beauty. This things to do in los angeles guide breaks down the best trails for you.

Beginner’s Ascent: Runyon Canyon & Griffith Park

For those new to hiking or just looking for a quick dose of nature, these parks are iconic. Griffith Park offers a web of trails, including the path to the famous Griffith Observatory, with stunning city views. Runyon Canyon is a shorter, steeper loop popular for its convenience and dog-friendly atmosphere.

A word of advice: these trails get extremely crowded. To avoid the masses, go on a weekday morning. Even on these “urban” hikes, bring more water than you think you’ll need—a simple Hydro Flask or Nalgene bottle is essential—as the California sun can be intense.

Intermediate Challenge: Solstice Canyon Loop

Tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains near Malibu, Solstice Canyon offers a perfect blend of history and nature. This 3-mile loop takes you past the ruins of a burned-down tropical home and leads to a seasonal waterfall, all with peeks of the Pacific Ocean.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, like a pair of Merrell Moab 3s or Altra Lone Peaks, as the terrain can be rocky. A small daypack, like an Osprey Talon 22, is perfect for carrying water, snacks, and a light jacket for the coastal breeze.

Expert’s Peak: Mount Baldy (Mount San Antonio)

Ready for a serious challenge? At 10,064 feet, Mount Baldy is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and a formidable day hike. The 11-mile loop via the Baldy Bowl and Devil’s Backbone trail is a strenuous trek that rewards you with panoramic views across Southern California.

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This is not a casual hike. Check the weather obsessively, start before dawn, and be prepared for drastic temperature changes. In cooler months, microspikes and trekking poles are often necessary. This is a true mountain adventure that demands respect and preparation.

Coastal Adventures: Exploring LA’s Rugged Shoreline

Los Angeles County boasts 75 miles of coastline, offering far more than just sandy beaches for sunbathing. The real adventure is found on the water and along the rocky bluffs. Exploring the coast offers some of the most unique eco-friendly things to do in los angeles.

Sea Kayaking in Marina del Rey

For a different perspective of the city, paddle through the calm waters of Marina del Rey. You can easily rent single or double kayaks for a few hours. It’s a fantastic way to get a workout while watching sea lions sunbathe on buoys and pelicans dive for fish. No experience is necessary, making it a great entry-level adventure.

Tide Pooling at Leo Carrillo State Park

When the ocean recedes, a hidden world is revealed in the tide pools at Leo Carrillo State Park. Check the tide charts and aim for a low or negative tide. You’ll discover sea stars, anemones, crabs, and other marine creatures in the rocky crevices.

This is a perfect activity to practice your sustainable things to do in los angeles skills. The number one rule of tide pooling is to look, not touch. The oils on our hands can harm these delicate creatures. Walk carefully on bare rock to avoid crushing fragile life underfoot.

Coastal Hikes at Point Dume

Point Dume in Malibu offers one of the best effort-to-reward ratios of any hike in LA. A short, sandy trail leads you to the top of a massive bluff with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Bay. During the winter and spring migration, it’s an excellent spot for whale watching.

Your Essential Los Angeles Adventure Planning Guide

Knowing where to go is only half the battle. Success in the outdoors hinges on smart preparation. Here are some crucial things to do in los angeles tips to ensure your adventures are safe, fun, and responsible.

Solving Common Problems: Beating Traffic and Crowds

Let’s address the elephant in the room: traffic. The most common problems with things to do in los angeles are traffic and crowds. The solution is simple but requires discipline: go early. Be at the trailhead by 7 AM on a weekend, and you’ll enjoy a few hours of relative solitude and find a parking spot.

Better yet, plan your bigger adventures for a weekday. You’ll have popular trails almost to yourself. Use apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS to not only navigate but also to check recent reviews for updates on trail conditions and crowd levels.

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What to Pack: The LA Adventure Kit

Even for a short outing, you should have a few essentials. The sun and heat are the biggest environmental threats here. Your basic kit should always include:

  • Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable.
  • Hydration: Carry at least 1 liter of water per person for every two hours of hiking. A hydration reservoir like a CamelBak makes it easy to sip on the go.
  • Layers: The weather can change quickly, especially near the coast. Pack a lightweight windbreaker or fleece.
  • Navigation: Don’t rely solely on your phone’s cell service. Download offline maps or carry a physical map of the area.
  • First-Aid Kit: A small kit with blister care, antiseptic wipes, and bandages is a must.

Best Practices for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Exploration

Part of adventuring smarter is protecting the places we love. This is your things to do in los angeles care guide for our shared natural spaces. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles, especially:

  1. Pack It In, Pack It Out: This includes organic waste like apple cores and banana peels.
  2. Stay on the Trail: Cutting switchbacks causes severe erosion that damages the ecosystem.
  3. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them.

Camping & Overlanding Near the City Limits

Want to turn a day trip into an overnighter? You don’t have to drive for hours. There are fantastic options for campers, RVers, and vanlifers right on the edge of the city, offering some of the most immersive things to do in los angeles.

Car Camping at Malibu Creek State Park

Just a short drive from the city, Malibu Creek State Park feels like a world away. The campground is nestled among oak trees and is a short walk from trails that meander along the creek. It’s a popular spot for rock climbers and was the filming location for the TV show M*A*S*H.

RV & Vanlife Spots: Dockweiler Beach RV Park

For a truly unique urban camping experience, Dockweiler is the only RV park in LA County situated right on the beach. You can have a campfire on the sand and wake up to the sound of the waves. The trade-off? It’s directly under the flight path for LAX, so expect some jet noise.

Getting More Remote: Angeles National Forest

For the self-sufficient overlander or dispersed camper, the vast Angeles National Forest offers rugged fire roads and secluded spots. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle for many of the best areas. Always check the current fire restrictions and road closures with the Forest Service before you head out, and be sure to have an Adventure Pass where required.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Things to Do in Los Angeles

What is the best time of year for hiking in LA?

The best seasons are fall, winter, and spring, when temperatures are mild and pleasant. Summer hiking is possible but requires starting at dawn to finish before the dangerous midday heat, especially on exposed trails.

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Do I need to worry about wildlife on LA trails?

Yes, you are sharing the trail with wildlife. Rattlesnakes are common, so always watch where you step and listen for their warning rattle. You may also encounter coyotes, deer, and very rarely, mountain lions. Make noise as you hike and never approach or feed any wild animal.

Can I find good free outdoor activities in Los Angeles?

Absolutely! The vast majority of hiking trails in the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains are completely free to access. All beaches are public and free, though parking can be expensive. Exploring a new trail is one of the best free things to do in los angeles.

How can I find more eco-friendly things to do in los angeles?

Focus on low-impact activities like hiking, birdwatching, and tide pooling (responsibly!). You can also give back by joining a volunteer day with organizations like the Santa Monica Mountains Trail Council or Heal the Bay for a beach cleanup. Choosing to recreate responsibly is the most eco-friendly choice you can make.

Los Angeles is so much more than its stereotypes. It’s a city where you can surf in the morning and hike a mountain peak in the afternoon. It’s a place of incredible biodiversity, hidden canyons, and endless opportunities for adventure, waiting just beyond the next freeway exit.

So pack your water, grab your boots, and use this guide to explore with confidence. Get out there, explore responsibly, and discover the wild heart of Los Angeles.

Eric James
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