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Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,563 Google reviews · Running trail in Los Angeles, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory'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.
Steep 1.3-mile-long unmade trail leading to the domed Art Deco observatory with views across LA.
What runners say about Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
“You get it all with this very popular hike: a steep climb, a unique view of the Hollywood sign, and a great view over LA.”
Superb and very short trail (~1h back and forth). Fairly easy, even if there are almost no breaks and you are constantly going up. The hike is very rewarding, multiple views of the city during the climb. Also try to climb via the West (tougher but better views) or East trail and go down with the other one.
Free parking and a more scenic walk to the observatory. My 10 and 6 year old made it just fine (it's easier on the way back). Parking is so bad at the observatory this was the better option. The views were awesome!
I love how you can take two paths, one more steep and difficult than the other, so a wider range of people can enjoy the hike. Great atmosphere. Classic hike. You get it all with this very popular hike: a steep climb, a unique view of the Hollywood sign, and a great view over LA.
Absolutely loved every minute of this hike. Such a great destination if you live in or visit the area. There are public restrooms and parking is abundant in off peak hours so plan accordingly. We opted for before sunset rush so late mid-day, no issues getting great parking.
Trail conditions & character
“Easy hike, I decided to start at the Trails cafe and go to the Hollywood sign view point and go back by the Hollywood reservoir.”
“Parking: Parking near the Observatory can be a challenge, so consider starting your hike from a lower access point like Fern Dell Drive (which is listed as only 0.”
“As you hike up the wide, dusty path, you get that iconic perspective of the Griffith Observatory dome rising over the green hills behind you.”
“3 hours overall, saw a fox, deers, colorful birds, passed the Sunset Ranch, no restrooms on the way, only one water fountain.”
“We did it late in the afternoon so hiking back down at sunset you'll need your phone light on.”
“3 hours overall, saw a fox, deers, colorful birds, passed the Sunset Ranch, no restrooms on the way, only one water fountain.”
Plan your run at Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Websitegriffithobservatory.org
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–6 PM |
Running trails near Los Angeles
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Fern Dell Nature Preserve
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Ferndell Nature Trail
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Charlie Turner Trailhead
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Bronson Caves
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Glendale Peak Trail Head
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Griffith Park Trails
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Outdoor natural trail offering hills, picnic tables & views of surrounding neighborhoods.