Elysian Metropolis

Forest Bathe at Elysian Park in Los Angeles

LA’s oldest green space also has some of the biggest views of Los Angeles. Elysian Park (LA’s third largest park) showcases eucalyptus history on this 2.5-mile West Loop with a variety of huge metropolis perspectives.

Park along Elysian Park Drive north of Stadium Way and find the trailhead at the eastern edge of the adjacent lawn past some palm trees. The trail immediately enters a shady arboreal wonderland, dominated by eucalyptus. After the park opened in 1886, over 150,000 trees were planted, most of which were the aforementioned inexpensive import from Australia. The grove is dense and creates a peaceful stroll, before the path becomes exposed and awesome city panoramas over the 5 Freeway and LA River come into view. 

The trail continues along the canyon wall, and the vistas stay with you the whole time, making for great photos. The trail eventually u-turns and climbs 200 feet rather quickly, amid more eucalyptus. At the top, pass a hidden garden—the Marion Harlow Memorial Grove. Sit at the bench among the succulents here before continuing up. Heading southwest, you’re rewarded with views of the downtown skyline. Take the spur trail on your left for a terrific picnic spot above the Grace E. Simons Lodge.

At the 1.75-mile mark, the trail hairpins again and continues on a straightaway until reconnecting with Elysian Park Drive at a parking lot and picnic space. This is the Elysian Park Arboretum—once filled with a huge range of exotic trees. The park still contains some unique specimens (look for the signs), like the Naked Coral Tree.

AUSTRALIAN CAFE: Before or after your tree trek, head to Little Ripper in the Glassel Park neighborhood, just north of Elysian Park. Everything they brew up is good, but try the signature drink—a latte with housemade almond milk and either lavender, turmeric, or chicory. You can also pick up a jaffle, an Australian grilled cheese toasted to perfection (we particularly like their delectable tuna melt and loaded versions). Liiiittle Riiiiiper!

Fun Fact: Elysian Park is where outdoor kung fu artist scenes were filmed in the Best Picture winning movie (2023), Everything Everywhere All At Once.

To get to the Elysian Park West Loop trailhead and street parking, take the I-5 and exit Stadium Way (if coming from the south, after you exit head north on Riverside Dr. and turn left onto Stadium Way). Head south on Stadium Way for 0.7 mile until you reach the three-way junction; turn right here onto Elysian Park Drive and park. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Bear Hug

    This 5.5-mile loop through Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park explores one of the newest segments of the acclaimed Bay Area Ridge Trail, one redolent with trees ranging from madrone and manzanita to buckeye and blue elderberry (with a bubbly post-hike bonus).

    View
  2. Field of Light at Sensorio in Paso Robles

    Light This Way

    Hidden in the bucolic hills of Paso Robles lies one of the greatest light shows on earth. The lighted art exhibition, Sensorio, is as if the rainbow magic of the aurora borealis was plucked from the sky and planted in the fields.

    View
  3. Bikers and walkers on the Bay Area Ridge Trail with the Golden Gate Bridge behind them

    National Park City Walk

    See San Francisco the way locals do by hiking the Presidio, a national park right in the city! Wooded trails, secluded beaches, and epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge feature on this 5.5-mile out-and-back on the Bay Area Ridge Trail. It’s a lovely slice of the City by the Bay.

    View
  4. Lake Nacimiento
    Sponsored

    Savor Summer in Paso Robles

    Ready for the “Great California Road Trip”? Keep it real and rolling in bucolic and beautiful Paso Robles. This down- to-earth destination has everything you need to enjoy the coolest experiences.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Coming Up Roses

    Looking to spice up your hiking life? Give your partner a rose—Mount Rose! The 10-mile out-and-back peak hike goes up to one of the grandest views in all of Lake Tahoe. Get ready f

    View
  2. A group of people clamored around the summit marker at Mission Peak in the Bay Area

    Your Mission Is Less Crowded

    Mission Peak is one of the Bay Area’s most popular mountains, with many hikers climbing every weekend. Skip the crowds with this 6-mile loop up the less-traveled southern route.

    View
  3. Bucks Up!

    Come on in, the water is beautiful. Whether you like swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddling, or heading out on a bigger boat, Bucks Lake is a high mountain haven that’s easy to access, blissfully uncrowded, and surrounded by sandy beaches, picnic areas, pines, and aspens.

    View
  4. Vista Hermosa Park in Echo Park Los Angeles

    Vista Hermosa, Echo That!

    Tucked in Echo Park, the little-known gem of Vista Hermosa Natural Park feels worlds away thanks to its serene beauty and thoughtful design. At 11.5 acres there’s still plenty to explore. And it's got a premier view of the iconic Los Angeles skyline.

    View