Golden Oldie

LA River Bike Path and Golden Road Brewery

Nominated for Best Picture in 1940, The Wizard of Oz became a classic. "Follow the yellow brick road" just beckoned an adventure. You too can follow a road and get to a happy ending by hopping on a two-wheeler for a mellow journey that concludes with a cold glass of Hefeweizen, fried avocado tacos, and a gorgeous sunset. The LA River Bike Path paves the way to this Oz! Park your car near the Bette Davis Picnic Area on the outskirts of Griffith Park, and after crossing the river on Riverside Drive, take the bike path east along the LA River. Take some time to admire the glistening water (while it lasts!). During winter a surprising variety of bird species congregate in the area, including great blue herons and snowy egrets. As the river takes a turn towards the south, the high-rises of downtown come into view. Pedal the full 7 miles and turn around where it dead-ends, returning the way you came. Then it's time for a golden reward! Golden Road Brewery is just minutes away. Grab a seat on the patio and get your fill of pub food or sweet treats like croissant bread pudding. Wash it all down with that glass of Hefeweizen or a seasonally brewed IPA. Play a few rounds of cornhole on the patio and watch the sun set over the river. Road to ahhhs.

Park near the Bette Davis Picnic Area on the outskirts of Griffith Park and cross the river on Riverside Drive, then take a left onto the LA River Bike Path. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View