Fryman Canyon / Betty B. Dearing

One of the Valley’s go-to hikes for good reason. This popular loop winds through chaparral and oak-covered hills with wide trails, plenty of climbing and rewarding views along the way. Part of the route spills into a quiet residential neighborhood, making it feel like equal parts nature escape and neighborhood walk.

Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve

It’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of Los Angeles here. This 225-acre wildlife reserve surrounds an 11-acre lake and provides habitat for herons, egrets, cormorants and plenty of other feathered locals. The mostly flat paths and observation areas make this more peaceful stroll than strenuous hike, so bring your binoculars.

Franklin Canyon

Tucked between the Valley and Beverly Hills, Franklin Canyon feels surprisingly removed from the city. Trails wind around a reservoir, Heavenly Pond and shaded woodland, but the park also has some serious Hollywood history: the lake famously appeared in the opening credits of The Andy Griffith Show. Keep an eye out for turtles, ducks and the occasional familiar filming location.

Lake Balboa

For a walk without the climb, Lake Balboa is hard to beat. The path circles the lake beneath towering trees with ducks, geese and plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view. Visit during cherry blossom season and the park puts on one of the prettiest shows in the Valley.

Caballero Canyon

Right at the southern edge of Tarzana, Caballero Canyon is an easy escape into the Santa Monica Mountains without going far from home. The trail climbs steadily from Reseda Boulevard toward sweeping ridgeline views and connects with the larger trail network above the Valley. Come for the workout, stay for the view.

Musch Trail to Eagle Rock

The payoff here is hard to miss. After winding through meadows, chaparral and rolling hills, the trail leads to Eagle Rock, a massive sandstone formation with panoramic views that make it a perfect snack-and-photo stop. Spring adds wildflowers to the mix, making an already beautiful hike even better.

Garden of the Gods

With towering sandstone formations and scenery straight out of an old Western, Garden of the Gods is one of the Valley’s most distinctive places to explore. The dramatic rocks have served as a backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, while today the short trails offer an easy adventure, great photo spots and a fun glimpse into Hollywood history.

O’Melveny Park

A little north of our usual territory, but worth the trip. O’Melveny is one of Los Angeles’ largest parks, with grassy picnic areas, shady oak and eucalyptus groves and trails that quickly climb into rugged hills. Head higher and you’ll be rewarded with huge views across the San Fernando Valley.

Ventura Boulevard

Who says every great walk needs a trailhead? Pick a stretch of Ventura Boulevard and make your own urban hike, stopping for coffee, browsing local shops, grabbing lunch or discovering a place you’ve driven past a hundred times. It’s one of the best ways to get to know the neighborhoods that make the South Valley feel like home.