Runyon Canyon is one of many outdoor recreational areas spread out along the hills above Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Thousands of locals and visitors daily take advantage of the hiking trails throughout Runyon Canyon to exercise and take in some of the best views of Hollywood. From its many peaks, a visitor can see Downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, the San Gabriel Mountain Range, Century City, and landmarks such as The Dolby Theatre and Capitol Records.
Runyon Canyon has over 160 acres accessible from Vista or Fuller on the Hollywood side (or enter through Wattles mansion and gardens via a back foot path). From the north side, one can enter via Mulholland Drive. Parking can be tough, especially on the north side. On the south side read the street signs regarding restrictions. Parking enforcers literally circle these streets and tickets are abundant.
Dogs rule this park, so one must appreciate that this is their playground as well. The majority of the park is off leash, so dogs roam free.
In the summertime, keep your eyes straight ahead, for rattlesnakes sometimes sunbathe along the path and in the brush. Other wildlife in the area includes skunks, coyotes, deer, raccoons, and one mountain lion (he’s taken up this corner of the Santa Monica Mountain Range). Occasionally look up as well, for this park is loaded with celebrities.
In one of the photos above of the city view, notice the twisted metal. This is the left over remnants of an old sign that said “OUTPOST.” It was a residential development that once competed with another well known sign “HOLLYWOODLAND,” which was later shortened to HOLLYWOOD.
For information on a Private Tour of Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, visit our website Glitterati Tours.