Fitness

Best Summer Hikes Near Los Angeles With Shade, Creeks & Waterfalls

7.31.26

It’s hot…really hot…but that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze in some outdoor time at a tolerable temperature. We’ve rounded up 10 of the coolest (literally) hikes in the area. Even so, be sure to bring lots of water and hike in the morning or evening to avoid the midday heat. Share your favorite summer hike in the comments!

  • Franklin Canyon Site Trail
    • Beverly Hills
    • Easy
    • 1.9 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade
    • This short and sweet trail is popular with locals thanks to the lovely scenery, reservoir wildlife, and - most importantly - shade. Hikers recommend wearing long pants since some of the trail is overgrown, and starting early. The first half of the trail is exposed, but the rest is well-shaded to keep you cool as the sun comes up.
  • Betty B. Dearing Trail
    • Studio City
    • Moderate
    • 8.2 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, water
    • Shade, scenery, and snakes. We don’t love that last one, but the beautiful views and ample tree shade make up for it. At the right time of year you might cross a stream, and at any time of year keep your eyes peeled for the swing! This popular trail is best enjoyed early in the morning when you can get a parking spot at the Fryman Hiking Trail lot before the crowds arrive. 
  • Devil’s Backbone Trail to Mt. Baldy Notch
    • San Gabriel Mountains North of Rancho Cucamonga
    • Moderate
    • 5.1 miles
    • Cool factors: Elevation
    • What keeps this trail cool is its elevation. At approximately 9,500 feet above sea level, the air is cooler and the weather is nearly unrecognizable compared to most of LA. Although there are some steep and slippery parts, the panoramic views and cooler temps make it worthwhile. Just watch for afternoon thunderstorms! One of the short trails in the area is currently closed, but there’s still plenty to explore. Pro tip: Bring your Adventure Pass!
  • Placerita Canyon and Waterfall Trail
    • Santa Clarita
    • Moderate
    • 4.8 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, water
    • On the easy side of moderate, this shady trail is pretty flat with a few rocky inclines. Between those rocks and the somewhat overgrown poison oak, be sure to wear good shoes and long pants. The creeks and waterfall dry up toward mid-summer but the hike is still a beautiful way to spend a morning, as long as it’s not a Monday when the park is closed.
  • Griffith Park Explorer Segment 6
    • Griffith Park
    • Moderate
    • 3.8 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, refreshments
    • This path includes 4 loops - 3 of which are well shaded and on the easy side - and some classic Griffith Park sights. One loop takes you to the observatory, and another through Fern Del, and you’ll end at the Trails Cafe. What’s not to love?
  • Sullivan Canyon Trail
    • Brentwood
    • Moderate
    • 8-9.9 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, water
    • The shade on this trail, particularly in the first few miles, is part of what makes it so popular. Add on beautiful scenery and a creek (at least for now), and you’ve got an excellent summer morning or evening hike! The full trail is nearly 10 miles, but we recommend turning around when the shade runs out at around the 4-mile mark.
  • Olmsted Creek to Del Sol Fire Road
    • Palos Verdes
    • Easy
    • 2.6 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade
    • Once you navigate the overgrown first section of the trail (we recommend you use a map), you’ll enjoy the secluded, shaded trail. In addition to great views of the ocean and LA, you’ll find a variety of wildlife. Hikers report bunnies, peacocks, lizards, and maybe even a snake. The cherry on top is public parking right at the trailhead.
  • Switzer Falls Trail via Gabrielino Trail
    • Angeles Forest North of La Cañada
    • Moderate
    • 3.7 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, water
    • Criss-crossing a stream along Arroyo Seco Canyon, this hike is known for its gorgeous trees and of course, the Switzer falls. Hikers should be prepared for some steep spots, wet stream crossings, and bugs. The end of the trail loses the shade and becomes quite the uphill climb, so feel free to skip it. Pro tip: Bring your Adventure Pass!
  • Cedar Glen Camp
    • San Gabriel Mountains North of Rancho Cucamonga
    • Moderate
    • 4.8 miles
    • Cool factors: Shade, elevation, water
    • Start at the Icehouse Canyon Trailhead for this hike to the Cedar Glen Campground. The trail follows the Icehouse Creek for a while before hitting switchbacks that eventually take you to the campground. For the coolest experience, stick to the first half of the trail that’s better shaded and less strenuous. Hikers report lots of bugs along with wildlife like deer. Pro tip: Bring your Adventure Pass!
  • Escondido Falls
    • Malibu
    • Moderate
    • 3.6 miles
    • Cool factor: water
    • This trail leads hikers through several stream crossings on the way to the lower Escondido Falls. Despite the stream crossings, the hike is on the easy side and hikers enjoy the beautiful scenery and scattered shade. The upper falls can be reached by a very challenging climb, but those who are up for it say it’s worth the trek. Parking is limited, but if you can snag a spot it’ll be $12.

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