Running Clubs in Griffith Park
Los Angeles, CA
Griffith Park is the crown jewel of trail running in Los Angeles. At over 4,000 acres, it is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and offers an extraordinary network of trails ranging from gentle fire roads to technical single-track, all within minutes of the city.
The most iconic run in the park is the ascent to Griffith Observatory via the West Observatory Trail — a moderately challenging climb that rewards you with sweeping views of the LA Basin and the Hollywood Sign. For a gentler entry, Fern Dell provides a shaded, creek-side approach from Los Feliz Boulevard that is popular with beginners and families. The Charlie Turner Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and the fire roads above the golf courses give experienced trail runners hours of varied terrain. Running clubs based here often meet at the Vermont Ave entrance, the Mineral Wells Picnic Area, or the parking lot near the Crystal Springs Trail. Wildlife is common — coyotes, deer, and red-tailed hawks are regular sightings. Start early on summer days to avoid heat; the exposed ridgelines can be punishing by 9am. Dogs are welcome on fire roads but not on single-track trails.
