Ernie's Walk

Enjoy Ernies Walk along the Los Angeles River in Sherman Oaks

Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy the urban stream, thanks in large part to community and city efforts through the past few decades. 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). Combine the brief memorial walk with a beautiful 2.2-mile (round-trip) walk starting at Richard Lillard Outdoor Classroom for a beautiful day along the river in Sherman Oaks.

Find Ernie’s Walk along Valleyheart Drive at Huston Street, marked by a stone sign under some healthy pines. While the walk is brief, the 0.3 mile covers a pristine section of trail along the river next to a small weir dam helping to regulate water flow. It’s also a good bird-watching spot. You’ll likely see an egret or heron in the shallow waters. Decades ago, this area was overrun by weeds and trash; that’s when resident Ernie La Mere decided to take matters into his own hands, planting flowers, adding benches and even a memorial site for deceased neighborhood pets. After Ernie passed away in 1995, his grandson and neighbors helped maintain the site, and in 2003, the county renovated the site while honoring Ernie. Now, it's a lovely place for a stroll and a great reminder of the impacts of community efforts (look for some painted rocks with messages too!).

If you’re looking for more mileage along the river in Sherman Oaks, head to the eastern part of town to the Richard Lillard Outdoor Classroom at Fulton Avenue and Valleyheart Drive. Here, trails flank both the south and north sides of the river, and both offer great views via a 1.1-mile stretch to Coldwater Canyon Avenue. Start on the northern edge and enjoy interpretive signs, such as one detailing “the oak tree hotel,” marveling at the tree’s ability to support multiple residents. There are also cute benches and some art along the path, which is framed by a variety of trees, including some gorgeous sycamores. The southern side maneuvers under pines, with signs detailing the history of the river. Here, the water is flowing constantly, making it a good spot to catch a family of ducks coasting down the river.

If you want to keep going, the path continues after crossing Coldwater Canyon Avenue. Otherwise, the mini loop covers 2.2 miles and is perfect for a sunrise or sunset stroll. 

BONUS BEER: Good brewery options are found in neighboring Van Nuys. We like MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., known for its traditional British cask ales, and Cellador Ales, which has a truly unique variety of wild ales, saisons, and sours. Cheers to the river and the community that supports it!

To get to Ernie’s Walk, take the US-101 to the Van Nuys Blvd. exit and head north. Take the first left at Huston St. and after 0.5 mile, make a sharp left onto Valleyheart Dr. and find street parking. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Matt Pawlik, @mattitudehikes

Trending Stories NorCal

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. Screaming Good Garden

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

    View
  3. 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
  4. 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

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. 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
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    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. 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