Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear it to locals and sojourners alike. One of our favorite stretches runs through the Elysian Valley—a 2-mile journey through an area called Frogtown, where you can walk or bike your way through surprising natural beauty.

Park on Ripple Street just off the Fletcher Drive bridge and check out the views before you start. Spread your wings as you pass through the Great Heron Gates into Rattlesnake Park, heading east. On your left are the first signs of Frogtown graffiti, urban artwork inspired by the amphibians who were once common here. Though the water levels can be low, trekking along the river is still a beautiful natural experience amid the dense urban landscape. Aquatic birds such as stilts, cormorants, and great blue herons can be seen posing on rocks or hunting in the shallows surrounded by riparian willows.

Meander along the river under the 2 Freeway and take a quick detour at Marsh Park, a pristine public park with ample lawn space, a skate park, and even a frog sculpture. Get back on the paved path and continue to Spoke Bicycle Cafe at nearly the 1-mile mark. This multidimensional shop with an outdoor patio offers bike rentals, coffee, tasty food, and draft beverages including cider and kombucha. Shortly after, you’ll hit quaint Elysian Valley Gateway Park, a good turnaround spot. This is a wonderful walk. Water you waiting for?

BONUS BEVERAGE: Partway through this stroll, you’ll spot the sign for Frogtown Brewery, a perfect pit stop before or after your walk, or both. The homey space showcases local art and, of course, a diverse and delicious rotating tap selection, of which our favorites are the Hazy River (New England IPA) and their session IPA, Feather It In.

To get to the Great Heron Gates and trailhead, take the CA-2 to Fletcher Dr. The gates will be on your right in 0.3 mile, but turn right just after onto Ripple St. and find street parking there. Alternatively, take the I-5 to Fletcher Dr. and exit north. Dog-friendly on the hike and in the brewery!

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