Runyon Canyon Hollywood

Yes, you read it right,  This place really is located within the city confines of Hollywood, Los Angeles.  It is approximately a mile (1.6 kilometers) from the Walk of  Fame, Mann's Chinese Theater and other iconic Hollywood landmarks.

You can actually get to this place by the riding the LA Metro Red Line and getting off the Hollywood Highland station.  Walk about half a mile west, then head north once you reach N Fuller St.  There are also westbound Metro buses on Hollywood boulevard if you do not feel like walking.

But I do hope you feel like walking as Runyon Canyon is mostly about walking a 3.5 mile (5.6 kms) canyon trail loop with very minimal shade.

This place has gone to the dogs

The canyon is also popular with LAs's dog owners who wish to have a large exercise area for their pooches' exercise.  The park allows dogs to be walked off leash, so don't be surprised if you see a large pit bull walking without a leash.

As mentioned earlier, you will unlikely find good shade in the canyon .  There are very few trees here with the vegetation consisting mostly of  SoCal (Southern California) desert shrubs.  As such, be prepared with adequate water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months (June - Aug).  I hiked this trail during the peak of summer and by noon when I exited the park, I was drenched with sweat, even if Southern California has low humidity.

Trees are quite rare here

I hope a dog didn't say goodbye to the cruel world;
perhaps an owner just forgot the dog's leash

At least you really know you are moving up in Los Angeles

Early birds get a giant park bench as a reward

Though the elevation of the canyon's trail peak is lower than that of other Los Angeles trails. e.g. Griffith Park, the views here are still awesome.  It is enough incentive for one to soldier one despite the brutal SoCal sun.

Latecomers get a regular bench, but still with awesome bird's eye view of Los Angeles

Well, if the view are not enough for you, this MAY still be the place for you if you want to meet a real breathing Hollywood celebrity, not like those museum wax figures.  Runyon Canyon is often mentioned as Hollywood celebrities' favorite park for walking their dogs, due to its close proximity to their homes. 

I didn't see one though, since I was not really looking for them.  Also, I highly doubt you would recognize a celebrity without make up and wearing a baseball cap, sweat pants and other un-Hollywood clothes and accessories. Unless of course, you stalk them for a living.

the mansions of Hollywood's elite

So I suggest you just come here for the view and the nice exercise you would be getting here. If you do spot a celebrity, well I guess that's cherry on the sundae for you.

Other Important Things to Consider
For those who are driving to Runyon, Canyon, please note that it may be difficult to find parking space in the area if you do not arrive really early in the morning.

Though it easily accessible from other Los Angeles attractions, keep in mind that this is still a hiking trail that requires you to wear the appropriate clothes and shoes.  It is probably not a good idea to come here in the dress and shoes you wore as a Red Carpet A-Lister hopeful at the Walk of Fame.

Runyon canyon also offers Yoga classes at the base of the trail.

*These photos were taken about 5 years ago when I was still using film.  Don't worry the park is still there.  LA rarely converts wide open spaces into shopping malls.