2nd Annual Virtual Wags & Walk-a-thon
As we’re gearing up for the 2nd Annual Wags & Walk-a-thon, we put together a list of our favorite dog-walking routes and dog-friendly hiking trails! Though we can’t be together in person just yet, our staff, volunteers, and fellow rescue-lovers will be walking all over Los Angeles on April 24th to raise critical funds for rescue dogs in need. Check out the list below and let us know where you’ll be walking for this year’s Walk-a-thon!
1. Palisades Park (Santa Monica)
The Palisades Park is a 1.5 mile walking path (3 miles, if you walk from one end to the other and back) that’s located along Ocean Ave. and overlooks the coast line. It’s a flat walkway, so it’s a nice stroll for all ages and intensity levels (both human and dog). There’s also plenty of benches so you can pause and take in the view!
2. Silver Lake Reservoir (Silver Lake)
If you live on the eastside, you’re probably familiar with this 2.2 mile walk around the Silver Lake Reservoir. This is another flat trail that’s great for all skill levels. It’s a popular walking spot, but we’ve found that if you go early in the day there are a lot less people around. Hot tip: there’s also often a fruit vendor there if you’re looking for more of a “chill at the park” kind of day.
3. Elysian Park (Los Angeles)
Elysian Park features a couple of different trails for different skill levels. It also has an unbeatable view of the downtown Los Angeles skyline. We like the Elysian Park Short Loop and The Elysian Park West Loop. They’re both rated “Easy” on AllTrails. There’s lots to explore at Elysian and it’s a great spot for a picnic as well!
4. Temescal Canyon (Pacific Palisades)
Temescal Canyon offers a wide trail that’s very popular for dog-lovers. This hike is a 2.8 loop that features a waterfall and incredible ocean views. It’s also a gorgeous drive up to the trailhead!
5. Fryman Canyon (Studio City)
Fryman Canyon is a hidden gem nestled in the middle of Studio City. It’s an unassuming hiking trail that bottoms out in the hills of Studio City. It’s a great 2.6 mile workout that offers stellar views of the San Fernando Valley.
6. Leo Carrillo Beach (Malibu)
Walk along this 1.5 mile stretch of beach with your pup for a stroll with an unbeatable view! Leo Carrillo is a dog-friendly beach that also features tidepools and, obviously, is perfect for a sunrise or sunset walk.
7. Kenneth Hahn Recreation Center (Santa Monica)
Kenneth Hahn is a very large park, great for walking your pup and for pack walks alike! Not only does it feature diverse landscapes, it also has lots of beautiful native California plantlife. There are a variety of trails and footpaths, which vary in distance and skill level.
8. Clover Park (Santa Monica)
Clover Park is one of the biggest parks in all of Santa Monica, making it another great option for pack walks! It features all kinds of recreational activities, as well as great picnic spots. It’s an ideal spot for walking, running, or just laying in a sunny spot with your pup this walk-a-thon!
9. Lake Balboa Park (Van Nuys)
Lake Balboa Park is a beautiful family park located in the San Fernando Valley. It features both dirt and paved trails around the lake and is about 1.3 miles all the way around. Another local favorite for pack walks or solo ventures with your pup!
Below are some more excellent resources for hiking with your pup:
And, finally, you can always check out our partner LARPBO (Los Angeles Responsible Pit Bull Owners) and their organized pack-walks at https://www.meetup.com/LARPBOcommunity/events.
We hope these suggested routes were helpful to you! Can’t wait to hear where you took your pup during our 2nd Annual Virtual Wags-and-Walkathon! Let us know in the comments.