Unique Things To Do In La: Your Off-The-Beaten-Path Outdoor Adventure
Think Los Angeles is all traffic, tourists, and Tinseltown? It’s easy to feel that way, especially when you’re an outdoor person stuck in a sea of concrete. You crave the quiet of a forest trail, the challenge of a rugged coastline, and the satisfaction of relying on your own skills, not the nearest valet.
I promise you, a wilder Los Angeles exists just beyond the Hollywood sign. This city and its surroundings are packed with incredible, rugged adventures that most people—even locals—completely miss. You just need to know where to look.
This is your guide to finding those truly unique things to do in LA, designed for the adventurer, the explorer, and the self-reliant spirit. We’ll skip the theme parks and go straight to abandoned Cold War ruins, hidden coastal caves, and epic island trails. Get ready to see a side of LA you never knew was there.
Explore the Lost Coast: Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail
Just 22 miles off the coast lies Santa Catalina Island, an outdoor paradise that feels a world away from the mainland. While most visitors stick to the tourist hub of Avalon, the real magic is found on the Trans-Catalina Trail (TCT).
This 38.5-mile trek is a serious undertaking, typically completed over 3-5 days. It takes you across the entire island, through rolling hills, past herds of wild bison, and along dramatic, windswept coastal cliffs. It’s a true backcountry experience minutes from a major metropolis.
Planning Your TCT Adventure
Logistics are key for the TCT. You need to book your ferry tickets to and from the island, as well as your campsites, well in advance. The trail is challenging, with steep climbs and significant sun exposure, making it a great test of your hiking fitness.
One of the benefits of Unique things to do in LA like this is the profound sense of accomplishment. You’ll carry everything you need on your back, filter your own water at designated campgrounds, and fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
Essential Gear for the TCT
Your gear can make or break this trip. A sturdy, well-broken-in pair of hiking boots, like the Merrell Moab 3, is non-negotiable. You’ll also need a reliable backpacking tent (the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is a fantastic lightweight option), a warm sleeping bag, and a water filter like the Sawyer Squeeze.
Most importantly, pack layers. The coastal weather can change in an instant, shifting from hot and sunny to cool and foggy. A lightweight insulated jacket, like the Arc’teryx Atom Hoody, is a perfect addition to your pack.
Beyond Runyon: Hiking to Cold War Ruins in the Santa Monica Mountains
Everyone in LA hikes Runyon Canyon for the selfies. But for a real adventure with a dose of history, you head for the Santa Monica Mountains to find the ruins of a Cold War Nike missile site.
The trail to the abandoned LA-96C launch site offers panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Ocean. As you hike, you’ll stumble upon the decaying concrete structures and radar towers that once stood ready to defend the city from Soviet bombers. It’s an eerie and fascinating glimpse into the past.
Navigating to the Site Safely
The hike itself is moderately strenuous. The biggest challenge isn’t the trail, but the environment. This is rattlesnake country, so always watch where you step and listen for their distinct warning rattle. Never hike with headphones in both ears.
Bring more water than you think you need—at least 3 liters per person—especially on a hot day. A good daypack like the Osprey Talon 22 will comfortably hold your water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a sun hat. Following these Unique things to do in LA best practices ensures your adventure is memorable for the right reasons.
Coastal Exploration: Sea Kayaking to Malibu’s Sea Caves
The Malibu coastline is famous for its celebrity homes, but its real treasures are carved into the cliffs by the relentless Pacific. Exploring these hidden sea caves by kayak is an unforgettable way to experience the power and beauty of the coast.
You can rent kayaks from several outfitters in the area or join a guided tour if you’re new to sea kayaking. The best time to go is during a low tide, which reveals the entrances to stunning caves and arches that are otherwise hidden beneath the waves.
A Sustainable Adventure on the Water
This is a perfect example of a sustainable Unique things to do in LA. Kayaking has a minimal impact on the environment, allowing you to get close to marine life like sea lions, dolphins, and coastal birds without disturbing them. Always keep a respectful distance and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Safety is paramount on the ocean. Always wear your Personal Flotation Device (PFD), check the tide charts and swell report before you go, and let someone know your float plan. Understanding the ocean is the first step in enjoying it safely.
Your Guide to Unique Things to Do in LA: A Practical Approach
Finding these adventures is one thing; pulling them off smoothly is another. One of the common problems with Unique things to do in LA is underestimating the city’s unique challenges, like traffic and climate. This guide will help you plan like a pro.
Beat the Traffic, Win the Day
LA traffic is legendary for a reason. To get to a trailhead for an early start, you need to leave early. For weekend trips, aim to be on the road before 7 a.m. to avoid the worst of it. Use a navigation app with real-time traffic data, like Waze, to find the best route.
Embrace the Microclimates
Los Angeles is a city of microclimates. It can be 70°F and foggy at the beach in Santa Monica, while it’s 95°F and scorching hot just 15 miles inland in the San Fernando Valley. Always check the specific forecast for your destination, not just the general “LA” weather.
This is where layering your clothing becomes a critical skill. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or mid-layer for warmth, and top it with a windproof or waterproof shell. You can add or remove layers as conditions change throughout the day.
Urban Foraging and Plant Identification in the City’s Wild Spaces
You don’t have to leave the city limits to connect with nature on a deeper level. Urban foraging—the practice of identifying and harvesting wild edible plants—is a fantastic way to build self-reliance skills and see your local park in a whole new light.
Large parks like Griffith Park or the open spaces in the Santa Monica Mountains are home to a variety of edible plants, such as wild mustard, miner’s lettuce, and elderberries. This is a truly eco-friendly Unique things to do in LA, connecting you directly to the local ecosystem.
Forage Safely and Ethically
This skill comes with a huge responsibility. Rule #1: Never, ever eat a plant unless you are 100% certain of its identification. Many poisonous plants have edible look-alikes. Start by going with an experienced guide or taking a local class.
Use a reliable field guide and an app like iNaturalist to help with identification. When you do harvest, follow ethical guidelines: never take more than 10% of a single plant or patch, and be aware of local regulations, as foraging is not permitted in all parks.
Stargazing in the Angeles National Forest: A True Escape
Just an hour’s drive from the city’s light pollution, the vast Angeles National Forest offers a breathtaking escape into darkness. Finding a turnout along the Angeles Crest Highway on a clear, moonless night reveals a stunning canopy of stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
This is one of the most accessible and rewarding adventures you can have. It requires minimal gear but offers a massive shift in perspective, reminding you how big the universe really is.
Pack a thermos of hot chocolate, a comfortable camp chair like the Helinox Chair One, and warm clothes. Temperatures in the mountains drop significantly after sunset, even in the summer. A headlamp with a red light setting is essential for preserving your night vision while you set up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Unique Outdoor Adventures in LA
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in LA?
Fall, winter, and spring are generally the best. Summers can be dangerously hot, especially for inland hiking. The cooler months offer pleasant temperatures, and in the spring, the hills come alive with incredible wildflower blooms after the winter rains.
Do I need special permits for these activities?
For day hiking in most areas, no permits are needed. However, for overnight backpacking on the Trans-Catalina Trail or in the Angeles National Forest, you will need to book campsites and may need a wilderness permit or a California Campfire Permit if you plan to use a stove.
Are these activities beginner-friendly?
Some are more than others. Stargazing is accessible to everyone. Sea kayaking is great for beginners if you go with a guided tour. Hiking to the Nike missile site is a moderate day hike, but the Trans-Catalina Trail is a strenuous multi-day trek best suited for experienced hikers or very fit and determined beginners.
What are the biggest safety concerns for LA-area adventures?
The top three concerns are heat, hydration, and wildlife. Heatstroke is a serious risk, so always carry more water than you expect to need. Be aware of your surroundings to avoid encounters with rattlesnakes and know what to do if you see a mountain lion. Always tell someone your plan before you go.
Ready to explore? Los Angeles has a wild heart waiting for you. It’s a place where you can surf in the morning and hike through snow-dusted mountains in the afternoon. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll not only discover a different side of the city—you’ll discover more about your own capabilities and resilience.
Grab your pack, fill your water bottle, and go find your adventure. Stay safe and explore confidently!
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