Plugging Into the Los Angeles Running Scene

Los Angeles may be known for its traffic, but for runners, it’s a city best experienced on foot. From coastal paths and canyon trails to early-morning track workouts and vibrant neighborhood run clubs, LA’s running scene is as diverse and energetic as the city itself.

Plugging in is easy once you know where to look: a mix of local run clubs, curated resources like LA Running Connoisseur, and an ever-growing calendar of trail races and social runs that make the city’s sprawling geography feel connected one stride at a time. Keep reading for a full rundown on where to run, the local runners who make the LA running scene unique, and where to get running shoes from HOKA.

Where to Run in Los Angeles

Point Vicente Beach Walk

Head to Rancho Palos Verdes for one of the most scenic coastal trail runs in Los Angeles. With rolling dirt paths, the Point Vicente Beach Walk traces the edge of dramatic ocean bluffs.

Runners are treated to sweeping Pacific views, passing the historic Point Vicente Lighthouse and often spotting migrating whales offshore in winter. The trail’s mix of soft dirt, exposed sections, and ocean winds keeps it engaging, perfect for a relaxed tempo run or recovery miles with a view.

West Ridge Trail

The West Ridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains is a local favorite for trail runners seeking rolling climbs and ocean views without leaving the city. Stretching roughly 4.5 miles round-trip, it offers steady elevation gain, open ridge lines, and sweeping panoramas from the Pacific to downtown LA.

The terrain is mostly packed dirt with a few rocky sections, making it ideal for tempo runs or hill repeats, especially early in the morning before the sun heats the exposed trail.

Ferndell to Mount Hollywood Summit Loop

For a moderate trail run, try the scenic Ferndell to Mount Hollywood Summit Loop in Griffith Park. This mellow, 5-mile trail starts in the shady, fern-lined Ferndell area before climbing wide fire roads to sweeping views of the LA Basin, Griffith Observatory, and Hollywood Sign. The mix of shaded canyon and exposed ridge makes this trail a favorite for runners chasing both challenge and iconic city views.

Musch Trail to Eagle Rock

Run through Topanga State Park on the Musch Trail to Eagle Rock trail. This route winds through shaded oak groves on a mix of single track and fire roads before opening up to the ridge line. At the striking sandstone outcrop of Eagle Rock, enjoy sweeping canyon and ocean views.

Meet LA’s Pace Setters

Runner Adrian Villarreal has made the trails of Los Angeles his stomping grounds. Watch the video below sponsored by HOKA to get to know the city and its running scene from his perspective.

Run Clubs in Los Angeles

LA Running Connoisseur has become one of the go-to resources for runners across Los Angeles seeking run-club info, trail races, and community vibes. Started in 2019 by Kate Olson, the website began simply as a list of all the run clubs in LA. It has since grown into a much broader hub where runners can discover local club meet-ups by day, time, and region.

Whether you live in the Valley, the South Bay, or DTLA, you can find groups for every pace — social jogs, track workouts, trail crews — via the site or its social media. The “LA Run Clubs List” is especially helpful, as it organizes clubs by region and helps runners always check the latest schedule updates or Instagram feeds in case of changes.

Trail Races and Running Events in Los Angeles

Ready to put your training to the test? Tap into the trail racing scene in LA with these major trail races that let runners experience the city’s natural beauty and community spirit:

• Griffith Park Trail Marathon Relay & 8K: Teams of runners cover a combined marathon distance through Griffith Park’s fire roads, single track, and lower old zoo trails, while individuals can tackle the 8K loop.
• SoCal Trail Half Series: Race through the Southern California backcountry on this multi-race series that covers varied terrain, including fire road climbs, winding single track, and sweeping descents.
• Angeles National Forest Trail Race: Challenge yourself on steep climbs through the canyons and wilderness before summiting Mt. Wilson.

Need a new pair of shoes for your next adventure? Stop by your local HOKA brand store on Melrose at 8551 Melrose Ave. or in Studio City at 12833 Ventura Blvd.

This post is sponsored by HOKA.