Los Leones Canyon Trail: A Coastal Escape
Hike Los Leones Canyon for panoramic Pacific Ocean views, lush trails, and a moderate workout in the heart of Pacific Palisades.
Los Leones Canyon Trail, nestled in the Pacific Palisades, provides a refreshing escape into nature with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The trail offers a moderate challenge, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The well-maintained path begins in a lush, riparian canyon, characterized by diverse plant life, including willows, elderberries, and California sagebrush. As you ascend, the trail transitions into chaparral, offering glimpses of Santa Monica Bay. The trail steadily climbs, rewarding hikers with ever-expanding ocean views. The full hike to Parker Mesa Overlook is about 4 miles each way, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,352 feet. However, hikers can customize their experience by turning back at any point, making it ideal for a shorter, less strenuous outing. Atop the trail, a clearing with a bench provides a perfect spot to rest and admire the scenery. From this vantage point, you can see the Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, and, on a clear day, even Catalina Island. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is early spring after rainfall when the canyon is lush with greenery and wildflowers. Be mindful of potential hazards such as rattlesnakes and poison oak.
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking in the free lots or along Los Liones Drive.
- Bring water and snacks, as the trail can be strenuous, particularly on warm days.
- Wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, for the dirt trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for varying temperatures along the trail.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for rattlesnakes and poison oak.
A brief summary to Los Leones Canyon
- 510 Los Liones Dr, Pacific Palisades, Pacific Palisades, California, 90272, US
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), head inland on Sunset Boulevard for a short distance. Turn left onto Los Liones Drive and continue until you see cars parked along the road. There are free parking lots on the right side of Los Liones Drive, but they can fill up quickly. Street parking is also available. Be sure to check parking signs to avoid tickets. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Take the Metro bus to PCH/Sunset Boulevard. Walk north on Sunset Boulevard for 0.2 miles, then turn left onto Los Liones Drive. The trailhead is one block away on Los Liones Drive. Bus fare is typically around $1.75.
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Ride Share
Request a ride to 510 Los Liones Drive, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272. Be aware that cell phone reception can be unreliable near the trailhead, so arrange your return trip in advance. A ride-share from Santa Monica will cost approximately $15-25.
