Cupid Classic

Wildflower Trail at Elysian Park

Elysian Park holds the title of oldest in LA and is home to Dodger Stadium. And Wildflower Trail is one of the best hikes in the area (bonus: it’s dog-friendly, for those whose Valentine is the furry, four-legged kind). Hikers can enjoy this easy 2.8-mile loop with minimal elevation and big payoffs. After winding through well-marked tree-lined trails, catch your breath in Marian Harlow Memorial Grove before choosing your favorite view: a stunning shot of the downtown skyline or the statuesque Verdugo and San Gabriel Mountains that loom over the freeway below. From there, wind your way down along the back side of the trail and smile at everyone fighting traffic on I-5 as you complete your loop!

The park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. After turning onto Elysian Park Dr. from Stadium Way, ample parking is available in the lot outside Grace E. Simons Lodge (1025 Elysian Park Dr.). Find the trailhead entrance directly beside the parking lot at a white fire-road gate. The trail exits roughly 500 feet from the parking lot. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  2. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  3. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View
  4. Hike at Olompali State Historic Park in Marin

    Historically Serene

    Olompali State Historic Park is a small park that packs big California history. Go on a mostly easy 3-mile loop hike where oak trees, big-leaf maples, and madrones are stunning in autumn.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. 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
  2. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation area.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View