Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Elyria Canyon Loop
- Location: Downtown Los Angeles. From I-5, take the exit toward route 110 north, but get off at Figueroa St. (before you complete the transition to the freeway). Go left on Avenue 26, go half a mile and take a slight right on San Fernando Road. Go right on Division and in 0.6 miles, go right on Wollam St. and follow it to the end.
- Agency: Santa Monica Montains Conservancy
- Distance: 1 mile
- Elevation gain: 200 feet
- Suggested time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty Rating: G
- Best season: All year
- USGS topo map:
- More information: here
- Rating: 3
You can live in L.A. a long time (11 years in my case) without having heard of Elyria Canyon. The 35-acre park has several hiking trails, and while it might not measure up to some of the more rugged trips in the Santa Monica Mountains, it offers a quick and easy escape from downtown L.A. On a clear day, you can expect to have nice views of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Fernando Valley.
From the parking area at the end of Wollam, head uphill into a canyon. Soon you come to a T-junction. The left fork leads to a residential area and the trail soon peters out. Take a right and continue your climb. Soon the trail splits again. If you have time and want to add to the trip, take the left fork and climb steeply to Elyria St., where you have great views and can get even better views by following the road to San Rafael Drive.
However, if you just want to do the mile loop, continue along this main trail. You pass by some hillside condos and soon arrive at a red farmhouse building. After this, the trail ends at Bridgeport Ave. Take Bridgeport down to Scarboro, head right, and then take another right on Wollam to complete the loop (or, if you prefer to stay off the streets, you can retrace your steps.)