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Ferndell Nature Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,835 Google reviews · Running trail in Los Angeles, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Ferndell Nature Trail'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.
Quarter-mile footpath along a man-made stream, shaded by tropical foliage & sycamore trees.
What runners say about Ferndell Nature Trail
“I took my dog along for the hike, and the trail was absolutely beautiful—well-maintained, clean, and very dog-friendly.”
“The trail winds through lush greenery, with plenty of shade along the way, making the hike up to the Griffith Observatory enjoyable and comfortable, even in warmer weather.”
“Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning hike, a trail run, or simply a chance to enjoy nature, I highly recommend this trail.”
“I came with my toddler, very easy hike, highly suggest for low impact hike and families.”
“I took my dog along for the hike, and the trail was absolutely beautiful—well-maintained, clean, and very dog-friendly.”
I recently visited the Fern Dell Nature Trail in Griffith Park and had a fantastic experience. There’s free street parking available, and although it can get a bit busy, I was able to find a spot within a couple of minutes.
After a good run in Griffith Park, this shady spot feels like a little hidden oasis. The creek is bubbling, the air is cool, and the trees are just perfect for a quiet break. A great place to chill out, escape the heat, or even enjoy a romantic walk. And yes, you’ll get plenty of Instagram-worthy shots here.
Fantastic canopies under the trees in the beginning with a stream with full greenery along the trail. A nice playground and picnic tables then the open air on a loop that goes off to trails to the observation. High elevation with views of the LA basin
Such a tranquil and beautiful nature walk that for a second you forget you're right in the middle of the city. I love being out in nature and surrounded by greenery and taking a leisurely walk with a cup of coffee and this is that place. You may keep going and take a hike up to Griffith observatory from the same path.
Trail conditions & character
“I took my dog along for the hike, and the trail was absolutely beautiful—well-maintained, clean, and very dog-friendly.”
“There’s free street parking available, and although it can get a bit busy, I was able to find a spot within a couple of minutes.”
“The trail winds through lush greenery, with plenty of shade along the way, making the hike up to the Griffith Observatory enjoyable and comfortable, even in warmer weather.”
“I took my dog along for the hike, and the trail was absolutely beautiful—well-maintained, clean, and very dog-friendly.”
“Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning hike, a trail run, or simply a chance to enjoy nature, I highly recommend this trail.”
Plan your run at Ferndell Nature Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitelaparks.org
- Phone(323) 666-5046
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–10 PM |
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