Free Yourself from Freeways

You can’t always escape Southern California’s busy freeways, but there are some ways to rise above them! These three hikes are located close to busy freeways, yet take you far beyond the fray, letting you hit the trails for a brief respite, beautiful views, even a quick workout!

Week: 02.08.2023
Regions: Southern CA

Getty Up

Get Great Views on a hike at Getty View Park in Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County
Hikes, Dog Friendly
Leave the congestion of the 405 behind on this 3-mile hike at Getty View Park. It’s an oasis high above the freeway that delivers wide-open views of Los Angeles and the iconic Getty Center.
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Descanso 2.0

A Workout Hike on Descanso Trail

Los Angeles County
Dog Friendly, Hikes
Descanso Trail gets overlooked by its showy neighbor, Descanso Gardens, but if you’re looking for a quick-fix hike and a cardio challenge, opt for the 3-mile loop trail.
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La Tuna Special

Hiking La Tuna Canyon Trail in Verdugo Mountains Los Angeles

Los Angeles County
Dog Friendly, Hikes
La Tuna Canyon Trail in SoCal
As one of the few footpaths within the Verdugo Mountains, La Tuna Canyon Trail feels like a backcountry trek, even with its proximity to the 210 Freeway.
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Walk on the Wise Side

    A wise man once said, “Walk it off.” And San Francisco has just the place for a colorful walk via a 2.7-mile loop along Philosopher’s Way Trail in the 318-acre John McLaren Park (S

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  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

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  3. woman hiking Mt Tam east peak
    Sponsored

    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

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  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

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