LA is one of the best cities if you’re looking for nature. Not many other places have the opportunity for all of the California beauty alongside the excitement of the city, which also means that during COVID-19, you can find plenty of creative spaces to hike, run, and explore the outdoors at a safe social distance.

If you’re on the hunt for some fun nature spots to explore in and around Los Angeles, here are a few classics and a few deep cuts that might just make a splash for you. Click here for more recommended hiking locations from 2015.

1. Escondido Falls

If you’re looking for a waterfall, this is one of the most popular in LA. With a beautiful hike to get to the falls, this is one of the best views if you’re on the hunt for something unique and fun.

2. Getty View Trail

You might know the Getty Museum as LA’s primary art museum. If you’re looking for a workout before or after a stroll through the halls of art, check out the Getty View Trail nearby! It’s open to all, it’s abundantly fresh, and it’s beautiful. It’s also a great family hike.

3. Griffith Park

Speaking of famous parks, how about the park alongside Griffith Observatory? This park is a great place to hang out, hike, and even bring the family or the kids. It’s also one of the largest urban parks in North America!

4. Los Liones Trail

This scenic trail has a gorgeous ocean view from its coastal loop. And if you’re looking for a lovely spot to hike, this could absolutely be the place to go. If you’re up for the 7.3 miles, or think you want to challenge yourself, you’ll have a blast!

5. Mount Hollywood

What’s more LA than Mount Hollywood? Mount Hollywood is a spot within Griffith Park, and it has gorgeous views all around. With this breezy three-mile hike, you can get a great workout in and see some lovely scenery.

6. Santa Ynez Falls

Speaking of lovely scenery, if you want to head to a waterfall, Santa Ynez Falls is a gorgeous cascading waterfall that will definitely satisfy that urge. At the end of a 2.5-mile hike, you can look down onto gorgeous falls with plenty of astounding views.

7. Solstice Canyon

If you’re looking for a gorgeous park where you can hike around and see some former homesteads, Solstice Canyon is your go-to! This beloved Malibu loop trail features beautiful ocean views, so you can truly have it all. Go during the week to avoid crowds.

8. Portuguese Bend Reserve

This adorable nature preserve offers almost 400 acres of rolling hills and canyons. There are plenty of multi-use hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities on this nature reserve too, so there’s no shortage of things to do and see.

9. Los Angeles State Historic Park

Located within the Chinatown neighborhood of Los Angeles, this long, open space between Spring Street and the metro gold line is the perfect place to get a little bit of nature in the middle of the city. You won’t have to go too far or drive to the middle of nowhere to soak up some greenery and feel refreshed for a quick outdoor workout here.

10. El Dorado Nature Center

Yet another enticing environmental preserve, this nature center in Long Beach has plenty of beauty and foliage. There are walking trails, ponds, trees, and plenty of places to run, hike, and jog.

Creative Outdoor Exercise Spots in LA

Even with the pandemic in full swing, there are so many places in Los Angeles where you can go to have a great outdoor workout. From gorgeous hiking trails to beautiful waterfalls, there is no shortage of nature on display all around you. Do you have a favorite spot that you love to go to in LA?