Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Hikes/United States/California/Los Angeles
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
189 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps

Fern Canyon Trail

See Map
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The Fern Canyon Trail is an excellent hiking route in Griffith Park, Los Angeles that offers amazing views across the city. While out on the trail, you will traverse wide, well-maintained paths that climb uphill to a series of scenic viewpoints. There is little shade along this route, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection; there is also a water stop between the 5 Points viewpoint and Vista Viewpoint.

Route Description for Fern Canyon Trail

If you are after a great hike in the L.A. area that features a bit of a challenge but also doesn’t traverse any difficult terrain, then the Fern Canyon Trail might be the perfect route for you. Traversing well-maintained paths through an undulating canyon landscape, this hike offers a great balance between difficulty and rewarding views.

Setting out from the parking lot, you will head to the southwest along the winding Fern Canyon Trail and it climbs gradually uphill. Eventually, the trail will bend to the east and bring you to a junction with several other routes.

Taking the second path on your right, you will follow the Upper Beacon Trail for a short distance to arrive at the edge of Vista Del Valle Drive. Turning right along the road, you will follow it southwest to quickly arrive at the Vista Viewpoint, where you will enjoy beautiful views of the SoCal landscape. After taking in the views, simply head back along the same route to return to the trailhead the way you came.

Getting to the Fern Canyon Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Fern Canyon Trail can be found at the Griffith Park Merry Go Round Parking Lot One.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Fern Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter