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Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 401 Google reviews · Running trail in Playa Del Rey, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Reserve made up of about 600 acres of wetlands & uplands, including a salt marsh.
What runners say about Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve
“Nice and beutiful place to visit Bike path Serene beauty Rocks Water Kayak UCLA recreation nearby and much more”
I've never reviewed a wetland, don't know what makes a good one or a bad one, but I can describe in detail this one and my experience. For starters this wetland is located about half a mile away from the beach. It is nestled in between a nearby University, its quiet community, and the ocean.
Im lucky enough to live in front of this peaceful place. Come anytime during the day to enjoy a nice walk or bike ride surrounded by the sound of the birds, ducks and the smell of amazing flowers. It’s also a nice path that connects MDR with PDR!
Nice and beutiful place to visit Bike path Serene beauty Rocks Water Kayak UCLA recreation nearby and much more
Worth seeing at least once whether you live in town or are just visiting. Great little section of preserved natural landscape in the hustle and bustle of the city. Slightly arduous to get to and you can't really walk here easily but if you find yourself in the area it is worth getting out and stretching your legs.
Trail conditions & character
“Nice and beutiful place to visit Bike path Serene beauty Rocks Water Kayak UCLA recreation nearby and much more”
“They've recently added some benches and drinking fountains further inland.”
Plan your run at Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, water — reported by runners
- Phone(888) 773-8450
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Playa Del Rey
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Area A Bike Path Gate - Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 9 reviews
Bluff Trail Park at One Westbluff
4.6 ★★★★★ 54 reviews
Park and walking trail for leisurely strolls that features lovely views.
Oberrieder Trails
5 ★★★★★ 1 reviews
Culver West Alexander Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 344 reviews
This 3-acre park offers soccer & baseball fields, a basketball court, a playground & picnic areas.
Bluff Creek Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 93 reviews
Flat bluff trail, mainly for hikers and dog walkers.