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Many out-of-towners coming to Los Angeles for the first time often have stars in their eyes. Literally — they hope to run into celebrities. While it’s not an everyday occurrence to bump into an A-lister in LA, it is possible, especially if you’re strategic and seek out the area’s best hotspots to see celebrities, which include Runyon Canyon. On this top hiking trail, bold-faced names like Vanessa Hudgens and Jake Gyllenhaal have trekked to stay in shape. Runyon is a 160-acre park with sweeping views of the Hollywood Sign in the Santa Monica Mountains. Its 3.5-mile moderate loop is broken up with three routes to appeal to all levels of hikers and runners.
Runyon’s celebrity history dates back to the early 1930s, when singer John McCormack bought the canyon and built a mansion with a pool and tennis courts that were often used by Hollywood stars, per the Los Angeles Times. Actor Errol Flynn even stayed at the pool cottage built by Frank Lloyd Wright. The mansion was eventually torn down, and by 1984, the city took ownership of the park.
Such celebrity lore continues today and can help explain why Runyon attracts actors and influencers. And unlike other trails, Runyon is dog-friendly with off-leash areas, a bonus for Hollywood glitterati who are often animal enthusiasts. Netflix’s “Wednesday” star Jenna Ortega has strolled with her dog at Runyon, along with Gavin Rossdale (the frontman for the British band Bush) and actor Chord Overstreet from “Glee” and Apple TV’s “Acapulco” (pictured). Runyon has a tucked-away feel that celebrities like to seek out, even though crowds are by no means far away. If you prefer truly crowdless trails, check out the nearby Glendale Peak for less-traveled, unmatched views of Downtown LA.
Views reward Runyon Canyon hikers
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With limited parking, getting to this popular spot requires a little planning. The park is just a 10-minute walk from the Metro B Line stop at Hollywood and Highland. If you drive, it’s about 10 miles from downtown LA off the 101 Freeway. The southern entrances are on Fuller Avenue or Vista Street, while the northern entry is on Mulholland Drive. Runyon Canyon is also a budget-friendly option for your trip to Los Angeles, as entrance to the park is free.
At the southern Fuller entrance, you can go counter-clockwise on the loop, making your way to Inspiration Point, then taking a steeper climb to Clouds Rest for soaring views. You can then return to Fuller on a paved fire road or continue along the loop to reach Indian Rock, the highest point in the canyon at the northern end of the park. To make the full loop, you can continue along the West Ridge Trail, which ultimately takes you back to the south entrance. For an easier half-loop, you can also start at the Mulholland to reach Indian Rock and continue downhill on the West Ridge Trail. After being closed for over a year, the West Ridge Trail has officially reopened in February 2026 (per KTLA), welcoming visitors back to its rocky ridges and scenic overlooks.
The park is also a space for some mindfulness practices that celebrities may appreciate. There’s a grassy field where you can strike your warrior pose and enjoy yoga by donation. Or, for a more meditative experience, take a slight detour to walk the Rock Mandala circle created by artist Robert Wilson.